Despite Terrorist Threat, Die-Hards Still Go For Short-Term Missions
by Allie Martin
July 19, 2004
(AgapePress) - The rise in incidents of terrorism around the world is having an impact on international short-term missions, particularly those trips to some of the more dangerous locations.SEND International is an interdenominational ministry that organizes short-term missionary opportunities for students and working adults. Warren Jenzen, SEND's general director, says incidents such as the terrorist train bombing in Spain can affect a church's plans, but many church groups seek to make alternate arrangements.
"Timing is very critical," Jenzen says, "especially for church teams that are going out. The bombing in Spain or elections in certain countries may deter the church group from going to that country. But they don't [opt not to go]; they redirect, often, to other places."
Also, during an interview with Mission Network News, the ministry director noted that while many young people are staying clear of terrorist "hot spots," many older workers are actually volunteering for these dangerous locations. "These threats are not deterring their interest or their commitment," he says. For some it's even putting more of an edge on missions, and they're articulating the fact that this is worth dying for."
So, Jenzen says, while terrorism is scaring a few short-term missionaries off, "for some it's taking them deeper into commitment." And at the same time, he adds, the terrorist threat is providing greater opportunity to expose more people to the gospel of Christ.
This summer, nearly 500 people will take part in short-term projects organized by SEND International. The ministry has 55 years of missions outreach experience in 20 countries of the world.
