“As a Junior in college working full-time, taking classes full-time, and serving my local church, I felt as if my life had a little bit of direction, but no clear path. Growing up I had multiple opportunities to work on the mission field. I served as an intern at my local church and worked at a summer camp in my area. After praying and fasting, I knew there was peace in leaving my job in the real estate industry to move toward finding the ministry opportunity God had for me. One closed door after another eventually led me to Thirst Missions’ leadership opportunity. Thirst Missions plans short-term mission trips in Alaska, Appalachia, Belize and Puerto Rico. I quickly felt led to apply in early 2022 as a staff member. Before I knew it, I was on the ground with teams from across the nation serving in “The Last Frontier” of Alaska.
In my first summer I not only learned how to maintain a budget for ministry projects, drive a 15 passenger van, and lead a team of 30+ to meet the needs of the local church, but I also felt as if God was using me to lead people beyond just experiencing a ‘good enough life’ to experiencing a full life in Christ.”
“Staffing as a Trip Leader with Thirst Missions has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had”
– Joe Merrin, Alaska Trip leader ‘22
God’s Calling into Ministry on Your Life
Taking that first step into Ministry can be quite challenging and scary at times, but as Joe said, it can also be one of the most rewarding decisions you will ever make.
As followers of Christ, we are called to go and make disciples around the world and be a part of what’s called the Great Commission (Matthew 28:16-20). If you have experienced the nudge to go deeper in ministry, but aren’t sure where to start, here are some practical ways you can be a part of this calling.
Thirst Missions Staff Ministry Opportunities
Thirst Missions is looking for ministry-minded leaders, college students, and graduates to join the summer staff in Alaska, Appalachia, and Puerto Rico as Assistant Trip Leaders (ATL) and Summer Interns.
This is an exciting, paid opportunity to travel, serve people in need, and meet and serve alongside some of the most incredible people from many different locations while gaining invaluable leadership and management experience.
To learn more about the positions currently available, visit the Thirst Missions Employment page.
The Local Mission Field Ministry Opportunities
You do not have to leave your area to reach the “mission field.” Serving in your local church and community is a great first step in answering the call to ministry. Serving locally allows you to seek your spiritual gifts in order to use them to reach people in your own community.
Here are some ideas for positions/roles to begin your ministry journey:
- Ministry Internship Roles – ask the pastors at your church if there are internships available and how you can apply
- Small group/Sunday School Leader
- Coffee bar, Door Holder, Parking lot team, etc.
- Join the praise team
- Organize and/or participate in outreach events
- Ushers and greeters
- Kids/Youth Camps
- Vacation Bible School Leaders
- And More!
It is likely that someone in your life shared the love of Christ with you and it changed everything. Now, is it time for you to be that someone for the family, friends and even strangers around you? Take the leap! Whether that looks like applying with Thirst Missions or joining your local church in ministering to your community. The reward of seeing someone come to Christ is greater than any amount of silver or gold.
