Short-term mission trips: A luxury the world can no longer afford?

Short- term mission (STM) trips for church youth from wealthy nations continue to be popular, but expensive, and their benefit to participants and hosts is often questioned. In recent years, the cost of living has dramatically increased worldwide. Together with declining church attendance in Western nations, this has resulted in less money being available for church, mission and theological academy. While existing research into STMs explores potential benefits and pitfalls for participants and hosts, a 360-degree consideration of both local and world needs for mission is called for. This article questions whether, in light of this, congregations should continue to support STMs leaving from their churches. Other ways of meeting the possible learning outcomes provided by STMs are explored, in contexts that teach church youth about the full scope of mission. A strict criterion for engagement in STMs is recommended, based on these arguments.