Why Christian Mission Trips Don't Actually Help.

Why Christian Mission Trips Don't Actually Help.
Hemant Mehta (www.friendlyatheist.com)
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[@scarling687]

I am an atheist woman, and I occasionally accompany my parent's church on mission trips, this one time, we went to this orphanage in Mexico. The kids were well clothed, well fed, and just very chill nice people. One of the church members had donated some money for us to buy the shoes. We did and we gave it to them. Their first reaction was like any normal person would react to getting shoes, "Oh, ok, thanks, these are nice". A lady in the corner was filming and she immediately pulled the pastor aside and explained how the reaction was unsatisfactory. The events that proceeded were as such: the pastor told everyone to take the shoes back, explained to the kids that we were going to give them the shoes with one condition, when he asked " Do yall want some new shoes?" they had to gleefully shout YEEESSS!! and cheer etc. Next thing I know the video of the fake reaction had been posted to facebook saying "When was the last time you received a pair of new shoes? did you react like this?, these kids are living in poverty and squalor, they have so little that a new pair of shoes excites them to the point of tears. Be greatful for all that god has given you" The giving new shoes was fine, what angered me is the entire fakeness of it all.

[@darthutah6649]

just goes to show that churches aren't immune to corporate greed

[@kuif234]

Crazy Little Thing Called Sam Damn...

[@adan1509]

We noticed this when we were helping out at an orphanage, there was a stream of tourists coming and giving the kids $2 toys and hoping for a big reaction. They had a container full of toys. What they really needed was privacy in their own home, fly screens on the windows and someone to cook for and feed the toddlers.

[@religionispoisonous3685]

What a disgusting story...but it doesnt surprise me. Their religion is lies upon lies upon lies

[@Jaaz7]

Darth Utah 66 they are the most prone to it actually.

[@StevieGG08]

Most of the christians from the US that came to our country in the poorest villages when I was a kid actually brought a lot of food and goodies from america and clothes, they built a park for children, they held games for kids/early adolescents and were generally really nice people. Some of them even brought doctors with them and consulted us free of charge and brought medical supplies. Really neat stuff. Even if I'm an atheist I really respect these people.

[@austinthompson4217]

don't believe this man why are you an atheist in the first place Jesus does exist theres more proof He exist then evolution witch does not make sense by the way

[@garlandlucas3762]

austin thompson how does evolution not make sense? and how is there more evidence of God than hard evidence of evolution? I honestly want to know because you may be misinformed

[@BABEEBEEH]

These really nice Christians are the hands and feet of Jesus to serve u for free

[@darkrain6944]

you can be a christian and believe in evolution. the pope even said its true

[@Rolando_Cueva]

I just realised he didn't mean witch, but which. I was thinking of a literal witch xD

[@coleslaw1196]

"I'm helping to save their SOULS, .. . not their LIVES" . . THAT is what allot of THOSE people who do that will tell you.

[@davidsoutreach847]

Saving their soul is saving their life!!!

[@letsrank9349]

@@davidsoutreach847 how good sir? So when they DIE. Their SOULS can live in paradise?

[@Themachine615]

@@letsrank9349 Precisely. Yes.

[@MrRono19]

@@letsrank9349 We all die at some point. Helping someone eternally would have a longer effect.

[@spawncampe]

My Soul is better without Jesus. Right now with this life, we gotta make the most of it

[@Lun4812]

I hate it when people do nice things just to better their reputation. And then they get angry and tell you you're evil just because you called them out on it. Dude I'm not evil, I like it when people do nice things. Just do them the smart way and not expecting anything in return.

[@tabletop5226]

When in Africa I met a lot of Catholic nuns who lived many years amongst the poor and will die far away from their home, having given their lives. No-one knows their names and no-one will ever know, they don't care for reputation. Don't judge people who do good stuff. Not everyone wants to "better their reputation."

[@Lun4812]

Table Top I think you should read my post again. I wasn't even generalizing.

[@heyzues8363]

Table Top nobody will know the names of those women who have sacrificed their lives to place another feather in the church of rome's hat. no doubt that every catholic will say, "look what the church is doing in africa." i cannot post images here, but if i could i would post images of crystal palaces, marble columns and arches inlaid with gold. the wealth which went into constructing, administrating, and maintaining these edifices could educate all those 'starving' people. not a religious education, but an education in the fundementals of engineering. the fundementals which help to irrigate labour intensive sustenance farms. instead of teaching people to pray, teach them to farm, fish, and pass the knowledge to the next generation.

[@massey904]

hey zues What are nonbelievers teaching the poor?

[@heyzues8363]

Chris M 'nothing' ... but that is better than giving them false hope. spirituality focuses on death ... we humans only have that time between birth and death to create new life, and teach it how to survive this world long enough to continue the cycle. one cannot focus one's efforts to this purpose if one is so focused on earning a place in the afterlife. think how much kufu's priest imhotep, might have accomplished if he had focused on making egypt better ... instead of building the great pyramid at giza. yes it is a marvel, but it serves my argument that religion steals time and energy from life.

[@grizzlykate]

There's this chick that I went to college with that is doing this right now. She keeps asking for money every day. Someone anonymously donated $200 and she said it was Jesus...

[@Mintyoreos]

Oh good lord. She goes to college? So webpage layouts and people deciding to help is another language that can only be explained by something that does not exist in front of one? Lolol

[@StreakyBaconMan]

I was talking to an atheist who used to be a Christian missionary and he told me that his group was basically lying to the people and misleading them into thinking that the reason the missionaries have all this access to food, water, medicine and technology is because they believe in God and are Christians. He told me how they'd be pushing that idea constantly, and then when they actually convert people the missionaries work is done and they all leave and take the food, water, medicine and technology with them leaving the people in the same state they were in before missionaries rocked up, except now they believe in God and Jesus. He told me that people from his missionary group knew and openly talked to each other about the fact that these people believe that by converting they will get access to those things and that they mostly felt it was OK to mislead them into thinking that because if they didn't convert these people they believed they were going to hell. If you think that unless you convert someone that they will go to hell and that you converting them is the only way they will be saved, it can lead you to make all sorts of horrible and immoral decisions on how to help these people. It becomes easy to justify outright lying to them if the alternative is they go to hell. Another thing that pisses me off is when missionaries think that conversion is a priority, over food, water and shelter even because in their mind even if the people do die from hunger or dehydration or exposure they are better off because they end up in heaven and not in some horrible situation down here on Earth where they're hungry, thirsty and don't have a roof over their heads.

[@TorianTammas]

Thanks for sharing that!

[@revivalbangor]

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good.He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him. The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

[@13Yeared]

revivalbangor You're in the wrong place, dude.

[@GrlWhoLoves]

revivalbangor God damn, shut the fuck up.

[@benjamins7905]

StreakyBaconMan I promise and guarantee if he swears in every day talk to you he truly was never a Christian. Be assured from a true Christ follower here

[@Kawamura2]

One of my big problems with missions is, they go into these third world countries mostly to spread their gospel. I feel it would be insulting to go to another country and try to force western religious thought onto people who already have their own cultures. It's been shown throughout history that Christianity destroys pretty much every culture it embeds itself in, and causes even more problems for people. Plus it's an insult to think that these people somehow feel that their culture and religion is superior. It's like they look upon non-western cultures as savages to be tamed and brought to the lord. Yes, I have a lot of problems with Christian missions.

[@BillyBike416]

No insult. Christians just talk to people. Some believe some don't. Western civilization largely believed until a few decades and people seem to flock here. Europe will soon fall to Islam and the US will likely follow shortly thereafter. Let's seem if the migration continues.

[@Kawamura2]

Bill Asbury Your comment makes no sense.

[@Stabsnipers]

Bill Asbury "Christians just talk to people." Well, that's a big part of the problem, Bill. They "talk" about how others will burn forever and ever unless they accept Christ, which is wrong. "Europe will soon fall to Islam and the US will likely follow shortly thereafter." Too laughable to even address as an actual statement.

[@BillyBike416]

***** Ray, You're right, my comment does make no sense. Let me try again. " I feel it would be insulting to go to another country and try to force western religious thought onto people who already have their own cultures." No insult. Christians just talk to people. Some believe, some don't BECAUSE NO ONE CAN FORCE SOMEONE TO BELIEVE. SOME PEOPLE DISAGREE WITH THE MESSAGE AND SOME EMBRACE CHRIST WITH JOY. COUNTLESS LIVES AND CULTURES HAVE BEEN TRANSFORMED FOR THE BETTER. TAKE THE EVANGELIZATION OF IRELAND BY PATRICK CENTURIES AGO. THAT COUNTRY WAS TRANSFORMED AND HAS BEEN INDISPENSABLE TO THE WESTERN STORY. THE SAME IS TRUE OF SCOTLAND AND MANY MORE. ""It's been shown throughout history that Christianity destroys pretty much every culture it embeds itself in, and causes even more problems for people. Western civilization largely believed IN THE CHRISTIAN FAITH until a few decades AGO and DURING THOSE EARLIER YEARS people seem to HAVE flockED TO THE WEST. CHRISTIANITY FORMED WESTERN CIVILIZATION AND IT HAS BE THE MOST INFLUENTIAL CULTURE IN HUMAN HISTORY. CHRISTIAN COUNTRIES HAVE LED THE WORLD FOR THE LAST 1500 YEARS IN ART, PHILOSOPHY, MEDICINE, SCIENCE, ARCHITECTURE MUSIC AND TECHNOLOGY. NOW Europe will soon fall to Islam and the US will likely follow shortly thereafter (and by the way THAT WILL be force). Let's see if ALL that migration STILL continues FOR WHEN THE LOSS OF CHRISTIANITY PERVADES WESTERN SOCIETY FOR SAY 200 YEARS, I DOUBT MUCH DESIRABLE IN THE WEST WILL BE LEFT INCLUDING FREEDOM. PS: "It has been shown, throughout history that Christianity destroys...." BY WHOM has this been shown?? References please.

[@BillyBike416]

Stabsnipers Stab, "Europe will soon fall to Islam and the US will likely follow shortly thereafter." Too laughable to even address as an actual statement. You REALLY need to explain why that is laughable. Do you really think Islam can be stopped in Europe? With their radical "tolerance" of everything, HOW will Islam be stopped? There are too many Muslims there now to force them out. France would never tolerate the bloodshed. Europeans have a birth rate so low that it is far below the replacement number and is now irreversible. Europe has no children to form the next generation. Who do you suppose will fill that vacuum as the old pass away? France now has numerous "Non-Muslim Free Zones where the police refuse to go and where Sharia law governs those zones. You think this is stoppable in France? What would provide the power to stop the power of the Muslim will? Charlie Hebdo??

[@beansandapricots8534]

I'm a Christian (formerly very anti-theistic though) and I have to agree with this guy. Send money to people who are ALREADY there.

[@maisymallory6253]

I agree. That money could be better spent. When a group goes to a foreign country, thousands of dollars are wasted on travel expenses. That money could accomplish so much in a third world country.

[@MarkBH70]

Welcome! Glad you converted, if you did. I'm a cynical Christian. When someone says he's a Christian, I usually don't believe him. But if you are, great! Yes, there's no need wasting money; but churches, like governmental groups, and NGO's, find ways to waste it that would embarrass a sailor!

[@YasminYoruba]

I disagree I go because I want to ensure the money goes directly to these communities

[@christophertaylor3150]

As a long-term full-time missionary, I appreciate what you say here. I agree that churches as a whole need to study missions more. I have seen cases where well-intentioned short-term teams have caused more harm than good.

[@MichaelPabon-dd2fy]

Not one of you have the holy spirit. You guys remind me of Mormons. Not real Christians. And most are secretly eacist

[@KingJonathanThe1st]

How about not try converting them at all and leave them be 😂 they’re not hurting anyone. As for their Soul, I’m sure they have their own way of connecting with the Living God

[@heyzues8363]

i cannot post images here, but if i could i would post images of religious headquarter's around the globe, crystal palaces, marble columns and arches inlaid with gold. the wealth which went into constructing, administrating, and maintaining these edifices could educate all those 'starving' people. not a religious education, but an education in the fundementals of engineering. the fundementals which help to irrigate labour intensive sustenance farms. instead of teaching people to pray, teach them to farm, fish, and pass the knowledge to the next generation.

[@Table-Top]

I agree, we spend far too much on buildings. You'd like a preacher called Tony Campolo. He's the one who inspired me to give up my job and live amongst the poorest or the poor in Africa.

[@aoife7190]

tabletop581 but you're on a computer?

[@samanthaarielann6318]

hey zues And you believe those with wealth are following who they say they follow? Jesus said, No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. *You cannot serve both God and money*. Seek salvation.

[@samanthaarielann6318]

tabletop581 Jesus needs to be your center piece. If you did all that just because a man inspired you then you did it for all the wrong reasons. Jesus said who ever loves their life will lose it. But who ever hates it will gain it in abundance. Get into a relationship with Jesus our lord so he can guide you like he has guided me. The way of the church is going is not his way. Jesus bless you though:)

[@stephaniemitchell8509]

SofiaLove888 "Jesus said who ever loves their life will lose it. But who ever hates it will gain it in abundance." What? What is wrong with loving a life that was gifted to you by your creator? And if you hate life, what sense is there in gaining it in abundance?

[@salimasmith3166]

I disagree, missionary teens and adult missionaries used to come to our poor neighborhood in NYC and brought us crayons, notebooks, school supplies and things I couldn't get because even though my family worked we were working-class poor in NYC. I lived and worked in South America and saw missions hold up whole communities without any government aid.

[@Emma88178]

Those are far and few between unfortunately. Not the norm.

[@sejanus855]

You can't just disagree with something because you personally had a different experience. Nothing always universally is good or bad, but having had a good experience with something doesn't mean it can't be bad on the broad scale

[@sidgallegos]

here's my experience: I went on one mission trip and my experience was very positive. We built a shelter for the kids church, brought bottled water, food, clothes and shoes. We didn't preach, we didn't convert, we had a mission and we fulfilled it. I can go on and tell you how this experience changed my life but I'm not. It did so I'll leave it at that.

[@creevey82]

+sid gallegos Thats pretty much what he said. You offered some minimal assistance, over a very short period. The end result is that you get to feel good about yourself, and jot it down on your resume, while those kids are still in a shitty situation. Missions are band-aids, when these countries need reconstructive surgery.

[@sidgallegos]

+Michael C , you are correct sir when you said that "these countries needs reconstructive surgery". You are incorrect in saying that I "got to feel good about myself". Yes, everyone has an opinion, and I respect that however; this experience made me want to go out and help others. I've helped out in homeless shelters, orphanages, women's shelters, food banks. Are those band aids too? If this country is so rich, why do we still have poverty? I don't point fingers, I go out and help those that need some helping. Those third world countries leaders should be ashamed of themselves for not taking care of their people but that's not my job to judge...there's too many of those out there who hide behind the screen and type away their "observations". OH, and by the way, I don't boast my outreach works on my resume..and what I typed here two months ago wasn't boasting either, it was my imput on this video. Anyways, have a great day sir.

[@m.d4375]

+sid gallegos United States does not take care of their poor people well at all compared to many european countries, in fact they don't do much at all to help them.

[@sidgallegos]

+iOwn17_ Pro Family Planning  Consolidated Health Centers  Transitional Cash and Medical Services for Refugees  State Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)  Voluntary Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit-Low-Income Subsidy  Medicaid  Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program  Breast/Cervical Cancer Early Detection  Maternal and Child Health Block Grant  Indian Health Service  Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) (cash aid)  Supplemental Security Income  Additional Child Tax Credit  Earned Income Tax Credit (refundable component)  Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)  School Breakfast Program (free/reduced price components)  National School Lunch Program (free/reduced price components)  Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC)  Child and Adult Care Food Program (lower income components)  Summer Food Service Program  Commodity Supplemental  Food Program Nutrition Assistance for Puerto Rico  The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP)  Nutrition Program for the Elderly  Indian Education  Adult Basic Education Grants to States  Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant  Education for the Disadvantaged- Grants to Local Educational Agencies (Title I-A)  Title I Migrant Education Program  Higher Education-Institutional Aid and Developing Institutions  Federal Work-Study  Federal TRIO Programs  Federal Pell Grants  Education for Homeless Children and Youth  21st Century Community Learning Centers  Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEARUP)  Reading First and Early Reading First  Rural Education Achievement Program  Mathematics and Science Partnerships  Improving Teacher Quality State Grants  Academic Competitiveness and Smart Grant Program  Single-Family Rural Housing Loans  Rural Rental Assistance Program  Water and Waste Disposal for Rural Communities  Public Works and Economic Development  Supportive Housing for the Elderly  Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities  Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance  Community Development Block Grants  Homeless Assistance Grants  Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME)  Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA)  Public Housing  Indian Housing Block Grants  Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers  Neighborhood Stabilization Program-1  Grants to States for Low-Income Housing in Lieu of Low-Income Housing Credit Allocations  Tax Credit Assistance Program  Indian Human Services  Older Americans Act Grants for Supportive Services and Senior Centers  Older Americans Act Family Caregiver Program  Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) (social services)  Child Support Enforcement  Community Services Block Grant  Child Care and Development Fund  Head Start HHS  Developmental Disabilities Support and Advocacy Grants  Foster Care  Adoption Assistance  Social Services Block Grant  Chafee Foster Care Independence Program  Emergency Food and Shelter Program  Legal Services Corporation  Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) (employment and training component)  Community Service Employment for Older Americans  Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Adult Activities  Workforce Investment Act (WIA) Youth Activities  Social Services and Targeted Assistance for Refugees  Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) (employment and training)  Foster Grandparents  Job Corps  Weatherization Assistance Program  Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) No sir, the US doesnt take care of their poor people...at all! (scarcasm)

[@m.d4375]

sid gallegos Not what I meant, there are a very lot of poor people in the US compared to many europeen countries.

[@Mayaridia]

I remember something that happened when I was at my Catholic high school a few years back. It was red nose day and I'd brought a red nose with me and was wearing it. My Religious education teacher walked up to me and told me to take it off. They didn't support comic relief at my school because the charity teaches about safe sex and hands out condoms in Africa to combat HIV. And my school didn't approve of saving these people. I was dumbfounded. Needless to say, I am an atheist.

[@late8641]

Yeah like which is worse, getting aids or doing something a 2000-year-old book doesn't approve. That's just disgusting, they should be ashamed of themselves.

[@pixeled9683]

HIV is an issue in Africa, and can be combatted by them not having sex at all. You shouldn't just have sex whenever you want

[@late8641]

@@pixeled9683 The point is, unless you can prove the existence of your spesific God or justify the validity of you spesific holy book, why should other people act according to what it says? I could write a book that says eating porridge as breakfast is wrong, but why would anyone have to act accordingly since I have no way of justifying that the book is a valid source of moral guidance.

[@Mateo-gh4ps]

Anyone ask your fkng history

[@redrum4805]

I call bullshit on this. My gf's grandparents were missionaries in a remote part of Peru in the '50s, and actually helped teach them how to distill clean drinking water, introduced corn and lima beans, along with tomatoes, to this tribe (the tribe first made contact with American explorers who landed by plane in the rainforest in the early 40s, in which they responded with fear and killed all of the explorers, which they later apologized for this), they provided them with beds, blankets, and helped set up mosquito protection, and even without eating more than once a day to make sure there was enough food to go around, alongside this, her grandparents actually learned the tribe's dialect to teach them the Bible, not forcing the tribe to lose their own language. Even to this day, my gf's mother, who lived with the tribe for 6 years, sponsors a girl in that exact tribe (Because even though her parents did help the tribe, unfortunately the tribe was hit with very tough times), and she gives to the point it hurts her financially. Sometimes, these mission trips are about more than just religious conversion, sometimes, it's about helping people and doing what's right, regardless of if they choose to even consider what you teach or not.

[@linap92]

Watch the video before criticizing. If you took the time to listen you would know he amends organizations like the one you described and says there should be more like it. He is against a whole other breed of "charity"

[@jk-gt3gi]

I left the church after I went on a missions trip to Honduras. It was a week long feel good trip for the missionaries because we were saving the world one bible at a time.If we wanted to solve any real problems we should have passed out birth control instead.

[@alienheadgains1977]

I went with my friend's church to Haiti this summer, we gave them food, water, and clothing. Yeah, we stayed there for only a week, but I feel like we really made a difference. You say that having a Bible with them or that Christianity doesn't help them. I couldn't disagree more. There have actually been studies that show that people who believe in God are more likely to survive cancer and avoid cancer in general. Also, my church DOES donate to long-term commitment groups, as well as charities. Every year, around Christmas, we wrap presents bought by the church members, and send them to orphanages. We do the same on mission trips. Yeah, we like to share the Gospel, but that's not what we're all about. We want to improve the health and well being of these people by giving them food and clean water. But something that I found interesting, is 90% of the time, they really don't care about stuff like food or water. They just want people to play with them and to love them. As soon as I got off the bus, like seven of them jumped up on me. Seeing their smiles made my year! I almost cried, seeing these children, who had been been to hell and back, smiling, and being thankful for the little they have. Something like that, for me personally, can only be because of God. You may disagree with me, and you may even laugh at me, but those kids made a HUGE difference for the better in my life.

[@NightmareGanon]

So, OK, agnostic theist from Honduras here: if someone wants to come here, that's fine by me. And if they want to preach their faith, whatever that may be, that's still fine by me. If they feel motivated by that for humanitarian work, still, I don't have a problem. Help is help, and if you offer it, we'll take it. And many of the people who come with religious/humanitarian missions are indeed quite dedicated, develop ties with the community, and do a honestly good job in providing useful services (medicine, getting resources). But if you come here thinking that locals "haven't heard about Jesus", then you're either an idiot or a douchebag. And that also leads to the kind Hemant is mentioning: those who go there for "colonial touring"- the clueless kid who has no discernible skills, doesn't know Spanish (or whatever the local language), and is just there to feel awesome that they helped. They enjoy their "superhero" status (riding on the work others have done) and just get off on the thought of being the superior people at their current location. Basically, Gary Boisseau : can you stop assuming that Christianity is the magic gift that we'd only have down here if first world countries kept sending people? Do you assume, perhaps, that our memory is deficient and locals would forget Christianity if you didn't keep your preachers flowing? Can you understand why we don't see colonialism in a precisely positive light?

[@cyruspalmer98]

Great comment.

[@bryanrodezno3183]

Dude? What part of Honduras are you from and where have you had the privilage to go to school at? I too am Honduran, but I live in the US where secularist beliefs and scientific reasoning is tolerated a bit more. Limme just say that I'm impressed that you, in a 3rd world country with people who base many of their beliefs on hearsay and don't bother to question it, are able to develop excellent critical thoughts. I'm not trying to insult the intelligence of my people, but the places my family is from such as Copan, San Pedro Sula, and La Entrada, you would surely get killed or get your house burned down for being an agnostic theist, which to many people there is the equivalent of being Satan.

[@NightmareGanon]

San Pedro Sula, and IDK, there's plenty of openly atheist people at college who get along with others just fine. I know this may just be my perception, but I feel that most lapsed Catholics and lapsed non-denominationals won't mind you having different beliefs than them. That's not to say there aren't fundies, but they're not that hard to avoid.

[@bryanrodezno3183]

NightmareGanon Dude, you live in the most dangerous city in the entire world! Kudos to you. Out of curiosity, do you by any chance know of the Savedra or Lendos family?

[@NightmareGanon]

I think I have some Saavedra acquaintance, but Lendos really doesn't ring any bell. Sorry, man.

[@emilymccann5176]

Bit apprehensive watching as I am preparing for a 9 month long mission trip, however I am very pleased with your analysis. I have always been critical of mission trips that don’t have a visible fruit from their time there. The best way to spread the gospel is by showing love and one of the best ways to show love is providing necessities and supporting those in need.

[@MaryKate-McCunney]

I’m a Habitat for Humanity volunteer, we don’t really “spread Christianity” or preach about Jesus when we’re there, us and the family build the house and it’s a super fun and refreshing experience. What my group also does in our week of going there is we throw a block party in the neighborhood that we’re building in to get to know the people of the town and we give them food and play games and talk to them about their lives and just make some friends!

[@faithrotich9441]

I'm from Kenya and I can tell you this definitely helps way more than you think.

[@bike4aday]

It warms my heart to hear that

[@brandynissley1049]

The trips I went on brought food, clothes and medical supplies. I have seen Christian missions trips drill fresh water wells, build homes, fly medical planes.

[@boopbop8861]

they also push their religious beliefs onto these people and use them and their culture as a photo op. it’s honestly super fake and embarrassing. i would be so annoyed if these rich people came into my home and used me as something to make them feel good about themselves.

[@tylerl4320]

Ah the classic “it’s not bad because i saw 3 examples so it’s an overgenarilaztipn”

[@duckymr1]

The Methodist church does mission trips completely differently than what you described. We build schools, we bring diapers, we set up clean water systems, we bring clothes etc. and we aren't trying to convert them. Just saying that not all churches operate in the same way. Also, the benefit that servers get is not just a vacation or for photos; it literally teaches them values and experiences that make them into more kind people for the rest of their lives.

[@kerismith7130]

They can build their schools, they can make their clothes. Empower them, don't do it for them.

[@molintsui7501]

Amen

[@chrisbennett3290]

I'm a Christian and I think you make some really valid points that the Southern Baptist Convention is already talking about in great detail. But a lot of places missionaries go are fine infrastructurally and they just go to share the good news about how we can be saved from our sin through faith in Jesus and his life, death and resurrection.

[@tenzylama9112]

Southern baptist missionary here nepal live in very luxuriously without doing much.they are good in writing news letters.

[@chrisbennett3290]

@@tenzylama9112 That's a shame to hear. I definitely believe you and as a missionary I know they will have to give an account before God of how they used their time and money, as will I. There is no greater cause to give your life to than living for the glory of God and making him known to those around you.

[@anniegirl_1421]

Yeah, that’s literally the worst part about your trips...

[@chrisbennett3290]

@@anniegirl_1421 I truly believe that apart from faith in Jesus people will eternally perish for their sins. Shouldn't I share that with others then? Isn't that the most loving thing for me to do if I care about and love people? I'm eternally grateful that someone warned me about the coming judgement of God and shared about his loving plan of rescue to save me from my sins and the penalty I deserve for them. I want nothing more for people than to know and love the God that created them and experience his grace and mercy.

[@kevinvorster9777]

@@chrisbennett3290 you've been sucked into a cult. The biggest and oldest scam in history.

[@Vanessa-ck4pv]

Hemant, I am from Brazil, and when I was 15 years old a group of missionaries came to my country for a short term missions trip, and contrary what you say, they went there to fix houses of the people in the favelas (the poor villages in Brazil) not only they fixed people's house that barely had money to eat, but they really took the time to love on the people and add value to them. I became a short term missionary myself, and as long I can remember, we helped build houses (away more than churchs) , we painted orphanages and fix things for free, and of course, we shared the love of God with them, faith without deeds, is a dead faith(James:14). About clean water, Christians raise so much money to help with clean water in Africa and India, I was so surprise when you said that, it seems like Christian work really bother you.

[@natatata4249]

why does christianity need to be related to the service work? just do it without spreading religion if you genuinely care about the wellness of these communities. it’s extremely demeaning for the communities to go on these trips with the intent of “saving them from themselves.” separate the religion from it, then these trips would be less problematic.

[@lordbloodraven9159]

In name of helping this missionaries are converting native religion into christanity so this is not help this is greed .

[@Sharing_The_Gospel_]

Christian here, just came back from a missions trip to Balcones Del Sol, Mexico. We brought doctors and donated clothes, to say these people were grateful is an understatement…not because of what we brought but because they felt loved, seen and heard. I got more from that trip than I could ever give them. Heading out on my second trip in January, I thought missions trip was about talking about the Bible when in reality it’s about sharing the unconditional love of god.

[@alexbarksdale91]

sharing the gospel is giving eternal life to someone whos never heard it, and thats the best gift you could give anyone, though you may not agree with that. ive been to haiti, i went for 10 days. we built a few houses and fixed some places up from the earth quake. but i agree somewhat.. going for a week doesnt really help much. our church has two groups that moved their perminantly to help.. and they dont just give the people stuff, thats doesnt help, thats inabling.. instead they set up biusnesses and hire people to work so theres jobs. so haitians are employed. now that helps.. give a man a fish and he'll eat for a day, teach a man to fish and he'll eat for a lifetime.

[@MsPeacelovingirl]

this one large church in our area (High Desert Church) did something really amazing. at Christmas a few years back they asked their congregation to take some/ or all of their Christmas funds and donate it to this place in Africa ( I forgot the name of the place.) they went and built I think it was like 6 wells so this place and the villages near by had fresh drinking water. Then the following year they asked the Congregation to do the same thing but this time they built a medical facility and had like 2 big rigs full of medical equiptment and supplies. they continue to donate medical supplies there to this day. every Christmas the congregations comes together to provide the funds to supply that facility. they also send Bibles and preach Christianity.

[@UltimatePeanutbutter]

I went on a mission trip with my school to Cuba, it was only for 2 weeks. We went with big plans to make a big difference. All we ended up doing was having a 2 week vacation bible study for children... In the end, sad for our inability to have done something huge, we had our last day spent with around 200 Cubans, expressing how greatful they were for the little we have done. Many mothers told us, that though things may be economicaly harsh, there children can believe in a God that can provide their every need. WHAT they were more greatful was that there was someone who was willing to give their time, give there energy, and care for those who could need it most. God qualifies the least of his people, you don't need to be a certified doctor. (Shure it helps) But the main thing is:You have to be willing to go somewhere, spend your time and energy and God will open the way to qualify you.

[@efe_aydal]

so true. Just like those charity concerts dont actually help and they're just there for the wealthy people to make them feel better about themselves.

[@Giacr45]

I completely agree with you. I was born on a mission trip. My parents went in a third world country for **2 years** with a 1-yo boy and my mother was pregnant of me. They didn't went there to "spread the gospel" , they went there to teach at the university, because in that country they lacked high-level education. This happened 20+ years ago; 3 years ago we had a sudden loss in our family... we received a letter of condolences signed by the dean of the university, so I'm quite sure what my parents did there *actually* helped someone. But I can't understand a 1-week "mission trip"... that's called a vacation.

[@alekseicarpenter3359]

Not to mention manny of these countries already have religion.

[@kuif234]

alek carpenter Yes

[@cynax7757]

Religion doesn't mean God is in the center of those principals.

[@cynax7757]

God is not someone you can reject. You probably will reject your children. If you don't want them or not believe in them. That's what you're doing to God.

[@Zoki4444]

@@cynax7757 Did God not create us with free will to make choices? We have the ability to choose to reject God. Isn't that the whole point of Christianity, to make the choice whether to accept God or not?

[@cynax7757]

Yes. Ready for the consequences for rejecting God. Since when did humans know about anything. Do children know more than their parents. Never.

[@johnmichaelbrenner4576]

As a Christian myself, I'll be the first to admit that you have a strong point here. While I obviously see great worth in telling people about Jesus, one week just isn't even enough time to do this thoroughly - let alone enough time to learn a new language and/or produce much meaningful humanitarian work. Furthermore, the examples of missions provided in the Bible are all mid to long-term trips. The only occasions on which the Apostle Paul left a city prematurely were when an angry mob chased him away, or when he received death threats. (Sometimes, even then, he refused to leave!) Honestly, I probably wouldn't find much on this channel that I'd agree with. But you're definitely on to something with this video. Thanks for your honesty!

[@michaelhodgdon250]

I work at a Rescue Mission. Sure meet needs. But Paul rejoiced the gospel was being reached, false motives or good ones he said. He told Timothy, preach the word in season and out. Also he told him give yourself to it ! Timothy 4:13. We are told to go out by Jesus. There doesnt always have to be a qualifier. God bless

[@BlackJar72]

Its a vacation for stroking their "ego" and show how "spiritual" they are. I'd love to hear about a summer long science / technology "mission" that built water treatment, etc. (health and other useful stuff), reguardless of what else the volunteers did or didn't believe, though.

[@sierralow9044]

Jared Blackburn i know this was posted 5 years ago - but i will gladly tell you about what my group did in our mission last october! i am also super sorry about whatever other missionary that's actions have convinced you that it's just a vacation or to show off spirituality! all of my missions have been so emotionally AND physically draining on me, nothing about it is vacationing and about halfway through it my "ego" (as you put it) is about as low as it gets because of this. on my last mission not only did we bring people that were in touch and knowledgeable on the bible, but we also brought nurses and health practitioners. the nurses had their own bus to carry sickly and hurt people in and bring them back to the "hospital" rooms that they have set up, free of charge for anybody that had to be diagnosed and worked on. they remained on their mission for MONTHS trying to help as many people as possible. and as for the missionary, spiritual side of things, not only did we walk around with open arms despite the majority of people's religion not being christianity, because that's what Jesus would do, but we had backpacks full of water purifiers that would last a family for years. we did not carry Bibles around giving them out, although there were several people that said they wanted a relationship with Jesus that we had long, beautiful talks with, in which case we got a Bible and returned it to them. one mission will not save the world! as a matter of fact, it won't even save a tiny percentage of it, but if i travelled across the world all over again just for ONE person say that they wanted to welcome Jesus into their life, i would feel far from failing what i came to do. to somebody without a missionary/christian perspective, i'm sure that doesn't make sense, but that's just the heart of somebody that lives on mission.

[@cynax7757]

Either way man needs to help those in need whether they believe or not and still proved truth.

[@cynax7757]

Sierra Low Don't forget that evil forces also position themselves to cause greater harm in these places. Non believers will see this and will attempt to tear the fabric of faith apart.

[@m.jenkins8503]

@@sierralow9044 you said it perfectly. For atheists they are full of anger and down their noses judgemental. Its like they want to be a god. Quit judging those who want to help. Look for their desire to express love for others. Just like Jesus is still doing.

[@Ice-ps9yo]

Remember, MrBeast is a christian but never involves religion in philanthropy, he's the kind of person that would be moral with nothing in return

[@ConorManning]

This is a drastic generalization of how missions trips work. I have been on trips both overseas in third world countries as well as on trips here in the US. This has been my experience: 1. We work with missionaries who are already there and committed long term. Our group simply helps them do what they are already doing. We don't experience the lag time of trying to create connections. We hit the ground running. 2. In advance of the trip we find out what needs are present within the community and bring those items with us so that we can meet practical needs as well as come prepared to work on projects that will benefit the community long term. 3. The experience for a young person to see first hand real poverty has an incalculable long term impact on their worldview and is well worth the money spent. In fact I would argue that it fuels a lifelong commitment to giving to those who have less. I think it is relatively irresponsible to formulate an opinion on how effective missions trips are based on some articles written by people working with a specific organization without taking into consideration that there are many organizations doing a great job leading effective trips that create both a positive experience for those on the trip as well as having long term meaningful impact on the communities that they travel to.

[@EmilyandRoseMusic]

I just wanted to say (as a Christian who has been on a week long missions trip) that I genuinely appreciate what you're saying, and think Christians considering short term missions should watch this video to help them have the right perspective, because you're absolutely right that it's not about getting cool pictures and testimonies to share about on Facebook. It's about caring for people's humanitarian needs, and also spiritual needs--not even necessarily "Christian" spiritual needs, just even showing love and kindness in simple ways, while helping with food/clothing and other needs. I only differ from you in that I do believe in the importance of sharing the gospel, but not as a means of "converting" people, but rather to give hope. Anyways, I've been contemplating going back this year to the area I went on a short term mission before, and this really helped me remember and solidify in my mind the reasons I want to go. So, thank you. =)

[@johanneskamlage4814]

Hi I'm a Christian and I totally appreciate this video! I think you gave some really good arguments and helpful rebukes to Christians. Thank you a lot for this video, even though I - as I said - am a Christian and believe that spreading the Gospel over the world is good.

[@DamazViccar]

Feel-good charity. It's like a lush funeral; all for the people who want to feel better, not the one in the coffin.

[@humbertojimmy]

Those people you mentioned, the ones who just want some pics for Facebook, how can you say "their heart is in the right place"??? Obviously, if their intentions are about themselves, then their hearts are NOT in the right place.

[@carstenhansen5757]

+Jimmy David - I think you could argue, that goes for just about ALL religious actions.

[@eddiekemp6603]

bc if he didn't they would have clicked dislike and left the video with some your going to hell bs comment

[@puffyblake]

I am a member of the LDS church. I am currently preparing to go on a 2 year mission trip to serve the people of Panama. We have missionaries sent all over the world. I am preparing to preach the Gospel of Christ in the Spanish language, and will live in Mexico for 2 months to learn Spanish (I already know basic Spanish). While I am there, we talk to people about Jesus and SERVE them in ANY way they need. You cannot go to people and hand them everything they want or need. As soon as you are gone, they will regress and not know how to help themselves. Part of the fight is teaching them to provide for THEMSELVES

[@alienslovepeanuts]

I disagree Christians don't go with purely good intentions, they want to level up they're godly ranks to get into heaven lol.. the good they do is laced with selfishness and greed...

[@alienslovepeanuts]

Marcel Venter I agree 100% that was perfectly said, people like you give me hope.. the human race is naturally retarded it seems like, so glad to not walk around blind like so many do, yet its really depressing to see the reality...

[@joshuacargill6656]

+Marcel Venter I went on a mission trip to Memphis, Tennessee this summer and I worked with kids, I fell in love with them because I couldn't help but love them like Jesus loved all of us. I did not go for any selfish intent. Yes, I did feel good after the trip, but that's because I knew I had helped the people of Memphis by loving on them and helping them with so many things they needed. I saw many of those kids come to know Christ and that made me realize I did something so great for them simply by loving on them like Jesus. I'm sorry you feel that we don't love people and that we are selfish, I hope you meet Christians who are good examples for you.

[@alienslovepeanuts]

Joshua Cargill people like you make me sick, people don't need faith they need help with problems that religion cannot help fix.. you fell in love with the people because you had a human connection that's it, I'm godless and would fall in love with wonderful people the same as you... godless is best, I help people because I care, you help to indoctrinate children with problematic folklore to continue the Stockholm syndrome that has plagued people for so many years ? you think everyone godless or non-Christian needs you to brainwash them lol go fuck yourself literally :)... I love many wonderful Christians personally but I pity the ignorance and blindness of believers, i will never be a Christian until their is evidence and if he is proven I'd never worship the Christian god I'm better than that, Joshua I honestly am really pissed at your bullshit but I hope someday you grow up and stop your nonsense.. i'm so insulted you think I don't know good Christians I do but that doesn't mean I should believe the same shit that I don't, my life goal is to stop indoctrination and people like you are my enemy number one :), i'll see you in the future maybe i'm with the freedom from religion campaign and we will stop you from brainwashing children as we should, if we can your days are numbered :D...

[@theyworkweplay]

+alienslovepeanuts have you ever thought about where "love" comes from?

[@blue5had0w]

+Sherri Cargill It's a chemical reaction in your brain, quite fascinating really.

[@dajusta87]

Christian missions is usually relief or service related. I don't see how relief aid or service help is "not helping".

[@MovieMakingMan]

My brother flew to Africa from the US to give shots to kids years ago. He went as part of the chamber of commerce in his city. His airfare alone was $3500 and no telling what he paid for lodging. And that’s just his expenses. Multiply that times 15 other members of the chamber of commerce and you’re talking about at least $75,000 just to give kids vaccinations. I read all the local media about how all those members of the chamber gave so much of their time. But I know my brother. He doesn’t do anything for anyone without getting something big out of it. All those chamber of commerce members just went there to massage their own egos. They all got photo ops that were published in the local papers. I thought it was disgusting. I wondered about all the good that could be done if they just sent $75,000 for those kids and their families. Local people could have administered the shots. I’ve heard things like this are really common. I heard of a Fortune 500 company that donated $100,000 to a charity and then spent $10 million dollars in ads telling how generous they were to donate that $100 thousand. I find acts like that completely immoral. You’re so right Hemant about those missionaries. In almost every case it would be better if they just stayed at home and send money to help. And they can keep their Bibles at home too. There’s been enough poisoning of other cultures with Christianity.

[@user-jt8eg6bx2x]

Being a missionary is a great responsibility! A missionary must have great energy, fortitude, and courage. Wherever the missionary goes, no matter what part of the world he is in, he must spread the Word. Locals must understand what the missionary is telling them. The missionary must get the Word right! Therefore, every missionary must know the language of the local people! To everyone who is on a mission or preparing for one, I would like to recommend a very good workshop written by Yury Ivantsiv Polyglot Notes: Practical tips for learning foreign language. This wonderful book will give you answers how to properly learn a foreign language with a minimum of your time and effort. This book provides answers to many of the questions that everyone faces when learning a language. I wish you good luck in your important work!

[@Jasmine-rk1un]

i’ve been on multiple international mission trip with my family, not with the church. though it was short term we drilled a well to provide CLEAN water and teach hygiene skills. bible lessons were obviously a focus but physical needs were met. not everyone has the ability to go long term. short term missions have an impact.

[@tylerl4320]

Most are actually terrible!

[@michaelhodgdon250]

Yes

[@archiemcglawn]

What is obvious to me is that we come from different perspectives. You desire to help is obvious and I commend you for that. I appreciate the spirit with which you gave you opinion. However, I must disagree with your thesis. I am a career missionary serving in Africa and our team is made of three persons from the medical field, a pediatrician, nurse practitioner, and an RN. Relief work is a major part of what we do, but it is not all we do. We are, however, unapologetic in our conviction that the greatest gift we can give someone is the gospel message. We have just worked with a short-term team from the USA during which we erected three tabernacles that not only will serve as churches, but will also serve as schools, medical clinics, etc.. While on this trip the team also engaged in relief work during which an individual was discovered that was dying with aids and they were able to provide medical assistance and pay for the individual to be transported to a clinic and receive further medical assistance. While I cannot say that this saved the persons life, or that help would not have arrived without this team, the simple fact is that it did. And the lives of each team member was profoundly affected. As a result, their passion for outreach was increased and will likely translate into more funds being available for such ministry in the future. I acknowledge that this does not happen with all teams, but similar situations do occur with some degree of frequency. As a missionary that has made a lifelong commitment to the third world, I welcome these teams. Rather than object to teams going, perhaps a better approach would be to encourage the missionary who receives the team to invest significant time in planning so that the teams time on the ground in the country of their destination would be productive and beneficial, as defined by the missionary organization that does the sending. Thank you for hearing my response and thank you for your interest in the underprivileged parts of our world.

[@Daniel.Emmanuel10]

Wonderfully spoken sir.. We never denied that the GREATEST of gifts is the gospel.

[@mikeblack363]

Wow, I had never thought of mission trips in that light. Good video.

[@ethankankula5630]

I've been looking for a video like this. Thank you.

[@misterwizzerd]

Derek Smith comparing atheists to Satan. That's about as offensive as comparing us to Voldemort. lol Not to mention the bad guy of the bible is actually the prideful, vengeful, self righteous, murderous, jealous, petty, tantrum throwing character known as God. But hey, if a silly Christian needs to feed his ego by comparing people he knows nothing about to his idea of the bad guy, so be it. He obviously misses the more decent aspects of scripture anyway.

[@fearedjames]

That is something that has always baffled me. Lets hypothetically believe the bible is 100% fact and god exists. That guy is a fucking asshole who expects worship without actually doing anything. Why would I want to worship such a person!?

[@Fxrichards]

Rainbow Dashtruction The “guy” who created everything, including someone who decided to use his life to be as vulgar and unthankful as you....

[@Ashen_Engineer]

frans Richards God is at best a negligent parent and at worst an abusive one. If he did exist, then he couldn’t be bothered to stop natural disasters or from another perspective he causes them. A parent is not entitled to unconditional love just for creating a child, it is their responsibility to take care of the child and if God was real, he’s done none of that.

[@Fxrichards]

Robert Donahue wrong on all counts of your arguments. You are just feeling sorry for yourself and maybe humanity. He has supplied you with everything and more to live a happy and fulfilling live.... the fact that you are sitting in front of a computer with the physical ability and the time to write such an argument shows just a tiny weeny bit of his caring parenthood. And all that whilst you denounce Him... ain’t that something? But to answer your question: aGod who created the universe in such minute orderly detail you expect to be explained in one line is just not realistic. That being said, one can know that He send His own Son to compensate/ pay for our iniquity and shortcomings so we can have a personal relationship with Him! Why does He need to intervene when disasters happen which is the seed of our rebellion, greed and independence? Sometimes He does, but He is not compelled. People are so wicked that they kill more of their kind than natural disasters do.... So I think you should start there with your bitterness and accept responsibility for the depravity as part of mankind and repent... However, your statement about Him creating or allowing natural disaster- of course He can do both, but the question is: did He and if so why? I believe to blame him for ever natural disaster is plain ignorant. I.e. who created global warming? Does God need to take responsibility for our insatiable greed which caused global warming etc? Let’s talk about other instances. If you believe in God you have to accept the existence of the devil (as depicted in the Bible), he is another cause of natural disasters. Fact is if you come to God he can undo the works of the devil, but if you refuse you are on your own... God will respect your stupidity. Then of course there is instances where got send natural disasters our way and it mostly is to draw us to Him... so we can see we are not so mighty, independent and technically advanced as our deprived minds believe.... we need Him desperately. Lastly I also believe that in extreme situations He, as a Holy and Just God, also from time to time have enough of humankind’s wickedness and just put a natural disaster to stop us... Question remains, if He can do something devastating as that, why does He not just wipe the slate clean and start all over again? The answer is simple... Because of His love for you and me...

[@cynax7757]

It's because the silly atheists doesn't understand there's an unseen spirit world that holds existance together. Micros don't hold themselves together by randomness.

[@WesternWhiteWolf]

I never knew that Teach for America was really like that. I will agree with you, though, that a week-long trip isn't going to make a huge change for anyone, especially if they're just building a church.

[@abbydavenport4595]

Short term mission trips can actually be much more beneficial than you realize. I went to on a 2 week mission trip to Guatemala last summer and we helped build a church and helped with the crafts at the vacation bible school. We were helping build the second floor of the church and often times in Guatemalan churches, when a second floor is built, that second floor becomes the pastor's house. So, really we were helping give someone shelter. Aldo, every day, there would be a bunch of little kids playing by our worksite. It brought them so much joy when we went to go play with them. Even though we speak different languages and verbal communication was difficult, we interacted through hand motions and gestures and we tried to use as much of the other person's language as we could. We connected with each other because of our shared love for God. I wish I could show you how much joy it brought to those kids' faces.

[@saharalessa6107]

building a church is not going to be what helps a family that doesn't even know where their next meal is coming from.... meeting kids for 2 weeks and leaving them over and over again as other groups come in isn't setting them up for stable emotional regulation, they tend to be very trusting and loving immediately and feel abandoned when their "friends" leave.....Why would you assume that these trips are more beneficial than realized if you couldn't even bother to speak the language of the people you went to "help" in order to recognize what they are truly struggling with and why they are in need of help.... there are no short term solution to long term problems

[@00Skyfox]

Where it really falls apart is when the "help" offered by the missionaries is dependent on the people they visit accepting the religious message, converting to that religion, etc. Back in 2004 when that huge tsunami hit the coasts of the Indian Ocean and hundreds of thousands were killed and millions hurt, homeless, and so on, there were news stories of missionaries rolling up with trucks of food, offering it under stipulation of the victims converting to their christian religion, and then driving off when the people refused. Certainly not all missionaries would be like that, but the fact it happened even once is sickening.

[@Sebastian_Gecko]

I always help other people because i feel good about it myself. Nothing wrong with that :)

[@trendingvideos3219]

Im an African , I saw a great impact of this mission trips in our country. Because of those missionaries I received Christ as my Lord and personal saviour. I have also learned that we need to share what we have with others. One thing about life it's that not everyone will appreciate the good things that others are doing.......

[@bike4aday]

That is a very enlightening message!

[@moneybxndz161]

you are being brainwashed my brother

[@joandarc441]

Sadly Africa is still suffering.

[@emmiewilson5024]

I liked how you spoke frankly and practically about the effects of short term missions . I love God and believe in Jesus christ .

[@mattmcmicken1296]

I just went to Honduras. I was on a Medical brigade. The hospital was in the middle of the jungle. The community was massive with all the surrounding villages. The hospital was busy if you could imagine and only 6 people ran it whom were long term missionaries. A Doctor, His Wife, their two kids, 2 nurses one was newly hired. They had a goal that started with a clinic and now there is a fully operational hospital for ppl that need it. They are affiliated with a Christian organization. In that area there were Christian missionaries that came for a one week over the past 25yrs. Many found their calling in that one week and decided to stay forever. Now they have another clinic, a church, an orphanage, and a Christian school addition to that hospital. Yes there are still needs and you cant just send anything in most countries like this one or all they will get is an empty box. Also having a medical skill and extra help is always welcomed because I believe especially in healthcare God puts you were you are needed. My opinion and my religion doesn’t even have to touch this guy with all the foolishness he is saying.

[@kdwitherspoon77]

I think a major problem with most charity programs is they base their program on dependency. They do things for them amd not with them. Teach them how to do it themselves. Cause when you take their ability to take care of themselves they lost. You have to give them the knowledge to live without you. That's affective charity. That's long lasting Chariry. Food is temporary.

[@mepemcl]

Agreed - they need aid like food shelter clothing medical supplies more than they need Jesus... But more than aid, they need technology & skills to develop a self-sufficient economy... They need personal responsibility to make tough economic choices (like have an abortion instead of 10 babies that you can't even feed). They need an infrastructure to support growing their own food & clean water & medical care & provide safety. They don't need infrastructure & skills for self-sufficiency - not dependency.

[@kdwitherspoon77]

iamtheone whoiamlight They don't really need Technology and people forget these people have been there for centuries. If they can survive this long they obviously don't need technology. The problem is pollution. We've polluted their way of life. Before they can just get water from the river, now the river is too polluted to even swim in let alone drink. AIDs in certain areas have ravaged the health of many of their people so few people can actually farm, like they used too. Really their industrial revolution has caused them more harm than good to the people who once depended on their country's natural resources. It's funny how people once lived in Tribes and Villages once perfectly able to fend for themselves are now struggling to provide for the basics.

[@belaireguy4117]

kdwitherspoon77 Very well said. It is an unfortunate reality that is occurring all over the world in continuous mode.With the internet the extent of the damage being done by the many different pollutants is now being realized. That in combination with radiation which began its dispersion shortly after its inception many decades ago. Now with Fukushima (ENEnews) spewing radiation into the Pacific and through the air for almost three years unabated does not bode well for the planet. Who to blame? I think individually one might think partially (a little). But the mindset was installed and some gray behaviors have been made to look somewhat acceptable by the "they" folks. Example: Littering, a huge pet peeve. You can go anywhere and find it literally everywhere. Simply take a walk around your neighborhood and look around. I have seen folks at a bus stop just drop whatever they consider trash right to the ground. The bitter part is there is a garbage can no more than feet away from them. Dragging on, sorry. My point is some individuals are more unknowingly I suppose responsible depending on how deep the indoctrination. We are at the end game of what many evil persons have manipulated for thousands of years. We are just here to see the beginning of the end quite possibly. Have a great time with your family in a few days. Best to you and yours my friend. Take care.

[@kenwelch198]

I've said this every time our church sends a missionary to some third world country for a month to spread the gospel. Our money would be better spent helping them build a school or well.

[@JimFortune]

You miss the point of religious missions. The point is not to make their life on earth better. The point is to bring them to a state of grace before God. That's why they bring them Bibles to save their souls instead of helping them obtain safe water to reduce disease and suffering.

[@JimFortune]

***** I didn't say it's what you should do. I said it's what they do.

[@JimFortune]

***** "They" is referring to missionaries. In my experience that mostly means Christians.

[@RubiixCat]

So basically what you're saying is it's useless.

[@JimFortune]

The Beast Maybe worse than useless. It gives people the feeling that they are doing something about a bad situation and so they feel justified in not doing anything useful.

[@ministersolomon93]

Jim Fortune They would have to have some scripture in them to know that. And then the other half of them FULLY KNOWS THAT and that's why they don't want us to go in the first place. Yessss....speaking of missions, souls have always been their "mission" too. Smh....

[@dkibler1974]

I did a short-term mission trip, and while over there, met some people who had an orphanage with 42 kids in it. Their supporter from America had died, and they were in danger of having to turn the kids out into the streets because they had no means of support. I came back to my church, let them know the need, and now all 42 children have sponsors (in fact, they've taken in 11 more due to the generosity of American Christians). These children are being rescued out of poverty, getting an education, and two of them have asked my wife and I to adopt them. All of that from a short-term mission trip. If you asked those children (and the families that sponsor them), they would say that Christian mission trips definitely help.

[@hormigonvisto]

I have gone to mission trips in Ecuador, and really, not necessarily you have to speak about the gospel. At least I never did until the people asked me to do it. The most important thing you can do in a mission trip is to listen them. This is my reason to go for a week. Yes you won't change their reality in a week, but you can make someone feel that one actually care of him or her. And this is the most meaningful thing you can give. Despair = Suffering - Meaning if you help the to find something meaningful what ever it is, you will take their away their despair even thought the suffering is still there. Good video!

[@TheDALEDENHAM]

I am a follower of Jesus (seldom use word Christian) but I could not agree with you more! This has been a core value for me for a long time. Thank you!

[@FactStorm]

Yet you remain a Christian. The delusion is very hard to break off. No matter how much logic and rationality comes your way, you will likely remain a believer

[@xxXthekevXxx]

Well spoken, sir. Never thought of a lot of this stuff. Good video!

[@Danithinks]

Raised a catholic and watching these videos make a lot of sense to me. dont praise me and tell me im doing a good job for having an antheist view ....but hey.....i am open minded and i have respect for people who have different views than me and this is why i can learn and eliminate ignorance from my life.

[@dianenuar2478]

I did Peace Corps in Thailand for three years. I have been on mission trips, and I am a practicing Catholic. The education I have received from living/visitng a foreign coutry has been one of the most valuable experiences of my life. At sixty I have worked in the US to provide funds to build hospitals and schools in many countries. Whatever you think of Christianity, many hospitals and schools have been built that bring life to the poor areas of the globe because of the the awarness mission trips bring.

[@Gmaemaster03]

Yeah, my old church built 2 hospitals in Lesotho. They helped a lot.

[@linap92]

As a christian, this is one of the things I hate most about the American church... smart people ought to ban together and stop this stupidity, this video is a good start. : )

[@heversonsilva7856]

Just came back from a week trip to Marajó Island in Brazil to help the Ribeirinhos...people who live on the margin of the river withou any infrastructure. The focus was not only to take Word of God to them but we also had a group of doctors and nurses that came along to care for these people....the last time they had a doctor visiting them was over 3 years ago....on top of that we also took thousands of diffetent key medicine that we believed they needed...it was a though week with over 3 thousand adults. and children being cared for...so I hear you...in portuguese the word PRAYER is ORAÇÃO which means Orar (to pray) + Ação (Action) ....Christians will make a much bigger impact when their prayers comes along with a meaningful action that will truly makes a difference in peoples life.

[@vincentandrews372]

I went on a mission trip once where I watched woman cry at the fact we cared enough to come and spend time with them at a kitchen/shelter. I watched children laugh as a soccer ball bashed into my face and missionary's happy we did some much needed work around the orphanage. Sending money didn't give me the experience that made me want to help more.

[@SuperDuperSentinel]

Most people that go to these mission trips for the right reasons will probably end up donating more money in the long run (throughout their lifetime) because they were so touched by that one experience.

[@jpobrien1973]

have you actually been on a mission trip? I would encourage maybe tagging along with a trip to see what they do and see the interaction with the people they are helping.

[@jpobrien1973]

I have friends also born in Africa and they would fully disagree with you.

[@jpobrien1973]

+Golde Glass I don't doubt that there are some that use religion to scam people. but there are countless others that don't. I know many that have indeed done things well.

[@jpobrien1973]

+Golde Glass I think you need some different experiences. lol

[@jpobrien1973]

+Golde Glass ...again, yes, some ate bad, but many more are not. you need some new experiences...and observations. should I judge all atheists as mass murderers simply because a handful of atheists killed the most people in the 20th century? no, that would be wrong of me

[@abdouhamidniang6263]

i was born in America and currently live in africa for 6 years now. Africa is not a huge village, just like every country there is the poor and the rich side. Now my mother works in a study aboard which brings in students from America, once they arrive they experience and "help" us. Are they actually helping the needy? not really they basically just talk, briefly learn about their cultures, and take pictures. Once they get back home they speak as if they did us a favor but in reality they didnt. Donating is much more efficient way to help these kids.

[@ASMRyouVEGANyet]

I'm confused by this because I know so many Christians who've gone on mission trips and been gone for years. While in these poor countries they built schools, fixed plumbing, helped abused kids and battered women, and the list goes on. I cannot fathom a trip that didn't do that... What a waste.

[@001Broadway]

Wow, you are a teacher??? America needs A LOT more teachers like yourself. Not some self-proclaimed ˝teachers˝, but people with intellectual integrity... Religion makes me throw up. But even more than that, gullible people, full of faith in those non-existing fantasies make me throw up- sometimes i wish there was hell just so they could go there... They only help others if they benefit from it and that is totally immoral.

[@singinwithadream]

As a Christian, I (obviously) disagree. I've gone on mission trips to Ouanaminthe, Haiti and built schools, clinics, tech colleges, we've built water purification buckets so an entire village can have clean water, we've interacted with the helpless children who most of the time have no one aside from the friendly faces they see from other countries coming to help them. On one hand, yes, I feel as though most people who go on these mission trips do it for that individuals own personal healing. When I went, I was very depressed-and has been for a very long time-and thought that maybe if I went to see what a third world country was like that I would feel better. I did. Not only did it help me, but it helps them more than you think, and here's why. Where we were staying to do our work there were Haitian vendors right I front of us trying to sell their goods and while most of it in our eyes looked tacky and unuseful, we bought it anyways 1) as a souvenir 2) because they were so thrilled and overjoyed that someone cared enough to buy their products. Secondly, while we worked with the kids in the schools that we built, the light in their beautiful eyes brought us so much joy that it reflected the energy in their classroom. We made crafts with them, (tambourines) sang with them, and yes shared the gospel with them. This is a Christian school that we worked with so they expected us to do it but in a third world country mor often than not that's the glimmer of hope they need to know its going to be okay. Third, the water purification buckets we distributed went to an entire rural Haitian village and what's amazing about them is that they know the power of sharing probably more than we do. If one got a bucket, 5 people got a bucket to utilize together. We distributed 35 buckets so do the math and how many people are not receiving clean, pure water. Forth, if you've ever been to a foreign country so poor and helpless you'll know that if you try to build them a house or a shelter, unless they are so desperate and truly have no where to go, they'll refuse it. In Haiti, or at least the town we were in, they were so proud of their homes. If you had money you got concrete and sticks. If you didn't you had a twig hut house but you know what? They are so proud that they can construct them themselves with no foreign help. Their is so much more I could say to defend my faith on mission trips but I will leave you with this. There are flaws that go into mission trips undoubtedly but what is give to the residence of helpless countries are glimmers of hope and peace. I personally, want to teach in foreign countries as a missionary (a missionary is someone who devotes themselves to helping people who most of the time have nothing and sharing the wonderful love and light of Jesus Christ.) what I think you are failing to remember is that you can go to a country and share your beliefs with them but you cannot change them. That takes their own life and dedication to want to change not someone shoving the bible down their throat. I am so passionate about this topic and actually have developed a few new atheist friends so it's nice to see what/how they think but this hits too far to home and felt the need to say something. I apologize if it comes off as demanding or rude. Thank you.

[@jessemasterjay]

Matthew 28:19-20 "Go ye therefore and make disciples of all the nations baptizing them in the name of Father Son, and the Holy Spirit teaching them to observe all things and lo, I am with you always."

[@frostifire_]

amen amen amen!!

[@trevorsutton2770]

+Vexalon true dat

[@frostifire_]

***** God is alive. You'd be dead if He was

[@frostifire_]

***** because God gives us life

[@joandarc441]

Japan: I think we should ban Foreingers.

[@jacquelinetucker5757]

You should go on a mission trip! Who knows, might change your perspective. Sometimes short term missionaries help encourage long term missionaries. They get worn out. And there's always work to be done. When I went to Mexico, it impacted me so much, such a reality check! Sad I didn't go sooner! And hope to go again! But for a Christian, Jesus really does bring hope. Let's face it, everyone knows they are missing something. And Christians believe Jesus is the answer. This is coming from a clinically depressed church planting woman of 7 kids who was picked up out of a pit by the hope and love I found in Jesus. It has been a progress, a pilgrim's progress, you might say, but slowly He is helping me discover I am loved, truly loved by the Maker of everything. And that makes me want to go and share.

[@annadavis5213]

God is so good! He is always faithful and refines us in our suffering :)

[@jrcalhoun759]

You NAILED it here man. I spent 34 days in Haiti with some family who run their own orphanage, but as an atheist I was solely interested in humanitarian, break my back along side you work when the Christian church teams would come and preach and do crafts and leave. this video was spot on brother, keep up the good work

[@alexislewis9504]

I went down to Ecuador (not on a mission, I'm atheist) to teach for two months, and you are right, it really does not help much.

[@markchanggz1]

why did it not help?

[@alexislewis9504]

meiyou It takes a lot of experience and time with to teach people who have never been taught before. Now try that while sick with a fever and diarrhea. Lots O' fun. They just don't know how to learn in a classroom, at least through western teaching, even on a basic level, like learning colors in english. After two weeks, only 10% of the class had mastered it.

[@Antbeast23]

well I went to a couple mission trips and it's been amazing... hell their are vision schools and programs like that. they go on it for a year and take gap years or even stay in a country for long time. they are people that are genuinely there to help... u have to realize that.

[@elichristiansen]

I am a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ and think that spreading the message about him is the most crucial thing a person can engage in since Jesus is the only one who can solve our biggest problem, which is sin. It's because of sin we are dying and eventually will die. But to preach about Jesus in a foreign culture on a foreign language requires long term commitment. So thank your for shedding light on this subject and helping us see the a lack of impact if there is no long-term commitment.

[@joandarc441]

Hence why a lot of people from third world countries don't want you guys anymore even Japan wants you out.

[@joeraceldidulo4910]

Yes, you're right.. I love how logically pointed out the things that we Christians should do and shouldn't do.. This simply reminds me of what St. Francis of Assisi would always tell us, "preach the gospel, use words if necessary." You may not be a Christian but thank you to have come across this video.. For the reminder..

[@cherishtattershall5723]

+The Atheist Voice,I'm sorry,but You are wrong on this one a lot of mission trips DO provide,clothing,food,medical cares.Also they have built schools,Joyce Meyer sends I. food buses for feeding children who are raped daily,have aids because of it,they live in the dump and eat trash,she and all her supports DO HELP in a tangible way,maybe YOU should go on one,and help out,so then you can speak from experience,and no give a helping hand!:)

[@SuperVancouverBC]

I don't understand why people go to these poor countries to preach and hand out bibles. they need food, clan water, clothes, shelter, a support network. these things help more than praying ever will. don't forget that these countries have different cultures. I have have no problem supporting charities that actually help people, I will donate clothes, non-parishable food things like that. I will give money to projects that make life better for people such as filtration systems to provide clean water

[@LionLemon57]

/watch?v=AhPaSNwyByc You have much to learn about what actually goes on during mission trips. Don't forget to watch this either. /watch?v=0nQHfJxXffU You are judging to quickly. Keep in mind that "The Atheist Voice" makes very biased videos, and they are hardly ever completely factual. I would suggest not buying into this guy's nonsense. It isn't worth it. If I were to guess, he only speaks from his own limited experience as a Christian.

[@SuperVancouverBC]

LionLemon57 what if the people that you are trying to help are not Christians though? going to these countries and forcing a religion on them-by handing out bibles and/or preaching is wrong. people who go to these countries should respect the different cultures and religions. and this guy is not a Christian.

[@LionLemon57]

SuperVancouverBC What do you mean, "this guy is not a Christian"? Who are you talking about? Wrong how? There is no wrong act in handing out bibles to people who have never heard of Jesus before. I don't understand how this would be a wrong act. You should also note that these people are not mad about people coming to them with stories of the bible and Jesus. They are accepting it, and are genuinely happy about it, and I want to also make it clear to you that it is not forced. It is more of a take it or leave it sort of thing. People introduce belief in God to other people because they genuinely believe it, not to "control" them. That is just some conspiracy cooked up by people who don't understand good nature. I would also hope that you realized the main focus of ADRA is not to preach, but to alleviate suffering, which is exactly what you are having an issue with, correct? The purpose of ADRA is to provide relief, not bibles. /watch?v=znGhjEhSNZc There are no mentions of preaching in this, only service to other humans. Why? Because ADRA knows that helping people without asking questions is exactly what Jesus would have done, and what is the correct thing to do. Their first idea is to help those in need. If people inquire about faith, then they introduce it. I think you are reducing Christianity to some brute force that is only out to control the minds of less knowledgeable people. This is not the case, although this method has been used in the past under certain denominations of Christianity (note that all Christians did not use Christianity to "control" people). It is sad to think that people still buy in to the argument that Christians are only there to control people. I want to let everyone know that this is not true. Christianity is in place because people love Christ. Are there bad people? Yes. Is anyone perfect? No. It shouldn't be too hard to recognize that Christians are not perfect people, and they will disappoint you at times, but in all honesty, who doesn't? The Atheist Voice proclaimed by the title of the video that all Christian mission trips are not beneficial. This is a universal claim. And being a universal claim, it only takes one counter example to prove it false. I have supplied that counter example.

[@SuperVancouverBC]

LionLemon57 dude this guy is an Atheist, not a Christian. mission trips to only hand out bibles and preach are not beneficial. it is wrong to bring bibles to non-Christian countries. and hand them out like countries. it is called Respecting cultures and religions of other countries.

[@LionLemon57]

SuperVancouverBC I understand that the guy in the video is an atheist, however, I do not see how that pertains to what I stated. I was simply refuting his argument that Christians do nothing but hand out bibles and preach during mission trips. As I had two videos in my previous posts that suggested otherwise. Whether or not the guy in this video is an atheist is of no relevancy. I don't understand why you keep saying he is an atheist, it doesn't make sense. And you still haven't provided an explanation on why bringing bibles to other countries is wrong. Christians have every freedom to do so. Just like you have freedom not to believe. If you say it is wrong for Christians to bring their bibles to other countries, then it follows from your reasoning that it is wrong to proclaim your atheism to others. You can't keep on going back to these double standards. If it is alright for you to proclaim your beliefs, then Christians should have every right to do the same.

[@michaelrojewski3160]

Many organizations already have food being given out, clean water projects, shelters being built, and medical aid year round. So what's the harm if students or others can only go on short term trips? Obviously not every part of the world is being fully helped, but organizations are spreading. I know many people started out as short term and made it a full time/ life long career. from the places I've been, the locals are genuinely happy that we are there.

[@nativetexanful]

He's right when he says that those poor people need food, shelter, and a bed, instead of a Bible. When I was in high school, I watched a documentary about hunger here in America. In one part of that film, a Catholic priest in San Antonio, Texas who worked with the poor said, "Prayer is not what a person wants when their belly is empty."

[@pirateboy00]

My uncle did one of those christian mission trips. He complained that the people there chose to be poor and don't deserve help. His reasoning was that there where 3 good houses in the area, so everyone else living in the slums must choose to do that. It was very irritating... All he did was help make the frame of a Church and walk around for a week with bibles. He was acting like he just saved them all.

[@kayleyblankenship1338]

The sad truth is like you said while some people do this with very good intentions, and some of them even DO provide food, water, clothing etc, that is almost never their priority. Even if the people directly going on the missions don't see it, all they are doing is try to spread their word to underdeveloped and uneducated children that they know will believe it. I mean think about it, starving children in africa and other third world countries are the easiest prey for this. They are sick, scared, uneducated and desperate for some kind of hope to latch onto. And while the hope is definitely a good thing for them and I am not against that, I am against their hidden agenda and the fact that more than likely (like you said) they are not getting a proper education. They are actually most likely being taught "Creationist" versions of school subjects, and so in the end you're really not educating them at all. Just filling their heads with folly that they will take to heart. Religious "missions" are really just the shadiest forms of indoctrination.

[@valerienieves3671]

Thank you for caring and for making this video. I hope we all continually search for ways to be selfless and caring for others needs.

[@jonathansnares3363]

Our church does a yearly mission trip to Guatemala. They go there to build houses for the locals, hand out bags of rice and other foods, and spend the rest of their time volunteering at Casa Shalom. Casa Shalom is a Christian orphanage that houses about 200 kids I believe and the short term volunteer missionaries build expansions on to the buildings, repaint rooms, and help with the children. On top of all that they spread the love of Jesus, yes.

[@allisonbartley2963]

first off I just want to tell you I am a christain and have an incredible relationship with Jesus and although I do think the opposite of what your saying when it comes to you saying that christain mission trips don't work just because our beliefs are totally opposite see I do think that water food clothing and shelter are important they are necessities of this world which is nothing compared to eternity with the most amazing father in the universe so see as christains our priority is not to judge people its to love people enough to see them smiling for eternity although our mission is different than yours just because our beliefs are different the only difference between me in you is that I have in his forgiveness and grace his compassion and love for even the most far away people and I want the nations to hear about the good news

[@polaris33063]

If you are going on a mission trip to spread the gospel, this is what you are doing in reality: you are just telling people lies (you might believe them to be true) that don't help them at all and in fact hurt the people you are trying to help.

[@mrstanskaggs1]

Marty.Alpaca The gospel is not lies my friend.. in fact it is basis for your ability to complain about your faith. It is important to adress not only the spiritual needs of people but all three needs including the physical and emotional needs as well. Addressing only one of the full set of three accomplishes nothing.. so your point is a valid on in that respect.. good call. Make sure they are well and can care for themselves, make sure they feel good about themselves and have confidence to live in a self-sustaining manner, and make sure they have the spiritual connection necessary so they are at peace in their lives.. just that simple.

[@polaris33063]

Stan Skaggs You can adress all needs without the bible. People in South America or Africa (where missionaries like to go) don't need ancient mythological tales of a middle eastern religion that has nothing to do with them. They all have they own mythology. They don't need another one, specially one that teaches intolerance and misogyny. You can do everything for people without god. If the missionaires really wanted to help they would leave their religion at home and just care for the real needs of people. Of course, for many of them the missions trip is just feel good tourism, that accomplishes nothing for the poor people. They are in a sense just being used.

[@mrstanskaggs1]

Marty.Alpaca Without Christianity, there would not be the compassionate efforts put toward these people.. It is simple to say that religion is not necessary to provide what they are receiving, but in reality, nobody would put the effort out there if it were not for the compassion intrinsic to the faith as one of its prime characteristics. I am not sure how you understand Christianity as some kind of horrific torture cult, but the primary concepts to Christianity is to love God and love your neighbor as yourself. I don not see how you can pull out intolerance or misogyny from those two key pillars of the faith.. The people who do these things (and hopefully they are doing it from compassion to others and not their own feelings or needs), are heroes to many in the world time and time over: Sure, there have been some mis-directed actions and people historically.. The ones that are genuine and real though impact our world in an awesome way for the good of us all. There is no way you can deny that; and your own surroundings and way of life are a direct result of some of those doing just what you detest... interesting.

[@polaris33063]

Stan Skaggs Yes the surroundings and way of life around many of us are a direct result of christianity doing its work. But not the way you think. Europe's progress was halted by the church in the middle ages, then they shipped that to America, millions of people died as a result of the conquest and subsequent conversions. Cultures were destroyed and replaced with Christianity. Bizantine ideas still in effect in Africa, South America, The Phillippines, etc. The Church still agains the use of condoms which causes the spread of dissease. The United States, still in the grip of Catholics, Protestants and evangelicals who rob people of their hard earned money, benefit of undeserved tax breaks, and do everything possible to fight science and progress. The idea of women as male property, direct from the bible and spread by missionaries. The list goes on and on. The progress that you and I enjoy in the modern world has not happened because of religion but in spite of it. Missions are not impartial, they do some good but with the catch of spreading ancient myths which have no place in the modern world. Just read the bible, it is all there, ancient mythology, murder, slavery, mysogyny, human sacrifice, mixed with a bit of love your neighbor (as long as he agrees with you).

[@mrstanskaggs1]

Marty.Alpaca What they need is a basis of morality, and Christianity is the best fit for this situation hands down. Your point is valid in that mission trips should not be tourist sessions or self-fulfilling ventures, but the need is there for a validated moral compass. Do you think that will originate from another religion or even Atheism for that matter?

[@bekkers29]

This is why I respected my grandparents when they spent 3 years in Zimbabwe back in the 1980s (I wasn't an atheist yet, but I did think week long mission trips seemed pointless), just volunteering at a children's hospital. Yes, the hospital was run by a church, but they were actually there to help people who had no other access to medical care.

[@tru3beast05]

I'm a Christian and he made a lot of really great points that the Church should certainly take seriously ! Great to hear different perspectives

[@shelovesweetcron]

Those are really bad churches, My church sends some Missionaries to mostly Southeast Asia and yeah there's the Gospel but they build some kind of Home for them where they are fed and not like the things he said.

[@elanamarie2918]

I am planning to go on a mission trip to get a better perspective. I know it probably won't do much but if I can give a least one kid a smile or laugh I think it will be worth it.

[@HonkytonkSue2]

That's a very patronizing attitude-- give one kid a smile--come on, are you that dumb or that selfish? If you can't make a real, Practical contribution to make life better, by building homes, a clinic, or a well, stay home and go preach the bible door to door, you will get lots of doors slammed in your face--but that's the real world. Let's see if that makes you Smile!

[@elanamarie2918]

Also The point of going is to make yourself more aware and respectful of what's going on. I think the only efficient way to do that is to travel. Also I will be contributing to building homes, clinics ext. That is my point of going.

[@bimalpudasaini9526]

Elana Marie Do you even realize that spreading your religion in Africa and Asia, creates divisions among people? Have you ever realized that the languages, the religious views, the cultures and the traditions that these people have, are the relics of their ancestors' imaginations. And, converting them into your beliefs using your wealth is actually committing a cultural genocide? If you want to help, great !! I admire that. But, a new religion in a struggling society causes conflict (Exodus 32).

[@caragrimshaw6258]

Bimal Pudasaini The point of converting people is to give them the knowledge of the truth that they have salvation through Jesus Christ if they never hear they have no hope of this salvation.The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever. That is in 1 John 2:17 eternal life and having a savior willing to die for sinners is more important in my opinion than the relics of the peoples ancestors. The point of the trips is to help them spiritually and physically. Im not saying that their culture should be destroyed but everyone deserves to hear about the love that their creator has for them. I get that you may not believe in God or agree with any of my opinions but I do believe, and part of my belief is to go and spread the word of God.

[@elanamarie2918]

Guys sorry my high school calls it mission trips so I got mixed up, my trip is more of a volunteer trip to help build schools, medical centers, ect. Not a whole lot of actual ministry work on this trip but really trying to help out. I am Catholic tho :)

[@lukemclean4959]

I'm not trying to defend any religion or put down atheism, i intend this comment to put aside the religious aspect for a moment. I know of a church that had a mission trip program that regularly returns to Mexico (I know it isn't third world exactly). They go to poorer regions and build housing and schools. I was not involved in this program personally, but know people who made multiple trips. They would repair buildings that couldn't afford renovations and replace buildings that had been lost ( schools, dr office, library, etc...) In my opinion that is doing good, i know this program is not typical, and not all people go on these trips with a mindset of helping long term, but i just wanted you to know that there are programs like this out there. I put my own bias aside here (I'm not religious or evangelical personally) and do realize while they are there, they try to convert people, and hold worship services and whatnot, but this program doesn't turn people away because of their lack of faith or differing beliefs and they don't shove their beliefs down your throat or try to force you to believe. Just my 2 cents

[@tjfjt]

My friend Andrew (who is part of the Mormon religion) is currently on a long term mission trip like you described, I am not sure how long term (I think he said 2 years) but I'm glad to see that there are religions who are worried about genuinely helping others and not just converting others

[@speedstacker51]

Converting implies that you are changing the people from one religion to another which doesn't often happen. Most people are unaware or inactive in any religion. But if it were Christians going to Muslims, that is converting. And Most mission trips do both- hand out food, do dental clinics, etc and spread the love of Jesus. They go hand in hand.

[@tjfjt]

angelswave88 most of these people do have tribal religion or some other pagan religion

[@speedstacker51]

thecatcovenantdude_Dks Depends on what region you are visiting. Anywhere in Africa who would be more likely to be converting someone. Whereas in central America, tribal religions are not common.

[@tjfjt]

Yeah, but central America is mostly Catholic anyway so it wouldn't matter. Either way I'm glad that some people aren't just going to gain jesus points and genuinely want to help others

[@DudeTheDanish]

So, heres what one of my neighboors did when he visited Ethiopia. Came to a village, in which they had to walk 20ish miles everyday to collect water from a river, because their well was broken. Used his degree and knowledge of engineering to figure out a way to repair the well. Repairs the well. Gets celebrated as a hero. Helping and winning.

[@oldman9843]

I sponsor kids though forgotten children worldwide , I know it is on the up and up because my son has been there to see the work in India . I would like to go myself but you know , for what it would cost me to go I could sponsor a kid until they are grown . So , as much as I would like to go , I don't think it would do near the good as not going .

[@jamespriddy8275]

I have been reading your stuff for a couple years. You do a good job of reason and observation. Thanks

[@gemmaswan9506]

There are some good points here. My old church luckily doesn’t just go for a week and spread the gospel. Their missions are long term and they help build homes and schools and help with food and wells and dentistry and medicine. Not everything they do is going to be helpful but I think some of it is