Missions

Every trip is different. The underlying ministry goal of our Global Missions is church planting, church support, and serving vulnerable populations. Trips revolve around building up the local church through effective evangelism, discipleship, and service in the local community. Most trips combine many things, including church services, work projects, community outreach, evangelism through drama and concerts, Vacation Bible School (VBS) for children, and even conferences for pastors and leaders. Caring for, encouraging, and loving our missionaries are other key objectives.

A valid passport that does not expire 6 months after returning from the trip is required before applying for this trip.

For international trips, a valid passport is required when you register for a mission trip. Also, there must be at least six months remaining before your passport expires from the date of departure and at least two free pages for entry/exit and visa stamps. For domestic trips, a valid state-issued ID is required. If you don’t have a passport and would like to go on a future mission trip, please visit http://Travel.State.gov/Passport. Please choose to expedite your passport as it could take up to four months to receive one. If you have any questions, you can e-mail BethS@CalvaryFTL.org.

The trip cost includes airfare, airport taxes, visas, meals, lodging, in-country transportation, ministry expenses, and foreign liability insurance. Your trip cost does not cover immunizations, airport snacks, souvenirs, and optional recreational activities. During training, you’ll be informed of any additional expenses.

Most trips are great opportunities for those new to missions! So, unless you’re told otherwise, a trip doesn’t require any previous experience.

You can view the most up-to-date list of trips you can go on here. Once you select your trip, you can apply. Be prepared to spend about 45 minutes filling out your application. Upon applying, the Trip Leader or Global Outreach Team will review your application and set up an interview. You can expect to hear whether you’ve been accepted to the team about 7-10 days after submitting your application. The trip deposit will be due within 30 days once your application is approved.

If you change your mind about a trip or can’t attend due to other circumstances, refunds cannot be given per IRS regulations since they are categorized as donations toward a mission project. 

Just like long term missionaries, all short term missionaries need to be called and sent by the Lord to serve on the field. That means raising support for your trip. Your leader will have fundraising tips and letter templates that you can send to those who want to support you. The milestones are the dates that the next amount to cover the cost of your trip is due.

Yes. All donations allocated to Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale are tax deductible, and the donor will receive a year-end statement. Cash and other donations made out to the individual are not tax deductible, so donors should give online here.

ALL payments/donations are received electronically here. A transaction receipt will be e-mailed to the donor when a donation is made.

Four trainings are required because we’re committed to preparing you completely. This is an essential time for understanding the culture and ministry and building team unity. Team training dates are on the calendar well in advance so you can plan accordingly. For your convenience, we typically meet after Sunday services. If you commit to a trip, you’re committing to training and a team, so please prioritize training dates. 

Due to airline restrictions on individual and group tickets, deviations can often increase the cost for all other trip participants. Therefore, we’re unable to accommodate deviations from the group itinerary. The individual would be responsible for all additional costs if a deviation is required due to extenuating circumstances. Under no circumstances will deviations be allowed on the front end of the trip. The team must travel to the country together.

Each country has its own recommendations and requirements. The government has a website we use as our guide (CDC.gov/Travel). Once you’re accepted to the team, you’ll be made aware of recommendations and requirements. As a church, we’ll give you the freedom to consider recommended immunizations prayerfully; however, you must get any required immunizations. Some immunizations take several weeks to take effect, so plan early. Suggestions made by us are general. If you have special health needs, direct your questions to your doctor. If you don’t have a doctor, the Broward County Health Department operates a travel clinic where you can receive counsel and immunizations here.

No, but you must regularly attend church somewhere. We do have requirements that you agree to as a Team Member of the trip. These include agreeing to Calvary Chapel’s Leadership Covenant, having a background check, and going through a Child & Vulnerable Adult Safety Training (CVAST) video. During the trip, you’re a Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale representative and will be expected to adhere to our statement of faith. Preference will be given to Calvary Chapel attendees if applications exceed available spots.