EMX supports youth mission

Does your youth group do a yearly mission trip? Is it hard to find the right motivation for your youth and adults? Do you struggle to find a mission area that is safe, well coordinated, and offers appropriate opportunities for your group? Well, if you struggle to affirmatively answer any or all of these questions, or even if you plan and coordinate great trips, check out the Episcopal Mission Exchange, a response to the 2003 General Convention’s resolution to place a priority on youth. Take note, however: EMX doesn’t offer a mission trip; it offers a wonderful mission experience and an exchange of love, faith and friendship.

The EMX program helps youth groups discern what type of work they should do, where they should go and what resources they will need. Most importantly, it provides spiritual guidance for the group before, during and after the trip.

To date, EMX offers 11 exchange opportunities throughout the United States categorized by three levels of experience: "E" - easy, "M" - medium, and "X" - extra-challenging. From helping to rebuild the Gulf Coast, to leading Vacation Bible School in the Rio Grande Valley, to staying close to home and helping with literacy and housing rehab projects in Appalachia, EMX can help you find the right fit for your group.

You don't pay EMX any money; they are here to help you discern where the group should go, and then their representatives put leaders in contact with site management personnel. While not on site with each group, EMX does offer step-by-step assistance with location discernment, transportation, food and lodging, and Bible and faith exercises for the group as they prepare for their exchange. EMX will also provide background into the region and work that each group will be doing.

For more information, visit their website at www.episcopalmissionexchange.org, or contact Bentley Manning, assistant director, at 877-EMX-SEND (369-7363). Manning, who can help any leader walk through the process of planning a mission exchange, will be a guest of the diocese at the Christian Formation Leadership Conference April 18-19 at All Saint's Center in Leitchfield.