Content Resources

What else might be asked of a physician, dentist, nurse or other healthcare professional serving cross-culturally that may stretch, challenge, and sometimes frustrate the committed and called servant of Christ? Being prepared for such extra tasks and determining to be flexible and joyful might just surprise the new (or old) healthcare missionary who humbly approaches the extended job description. Speaker(s): Dave MD, MA (Bioethics) Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/the-healthcare-missionary-job-description-you-want-me-to-do-what

TL;DR: Refugee crises stem from conflict, persecution, disaster, and instability—often overlapping in complex ways. By grasping the roots of displacement, missionaries can better serve those affected and discern how to help refugees in ways that are thoughtful, sustainable, and Christ-centered. The causes of refugee problems in the world are rarely simple. From armed conflict and religious persecution to economic collapse, millions are being displaced.    The Real Causes of Refugee Problems in the World The most visible refugee stories—border crossings, boat rescues, packed shelters—are often just the final scenes of a much longer crisis. Conflict, persecution, famine, failed governance, and climate disasters are all leading causes of refugee displacement globally. Today, over 100 million people are forcibly displaced worldwide. Many flee with no guarantee of safety, dignity, or return. The United Nations defines refugees as people forced to flee across borders due to conflict or persecution. But that’s only part of the story. Some are fleeing war zones, like Ukraine. Others are escaping slow violence—political oppression, famine, or rising waters that erase entire villages. Displacement is not always sudden. Often, it builds quietly over years until staying home is no longer an option.   Behind Every Crisis Are Layers of Injustice The causes of refugee crises are layered and often invisible to outsiders. Political failure in one region can ripple into economic collapse in another. A local drought can become an international famine. Ethnic targeting can silence entire communities and force them into hiding. In Eastern Europe, for example, the war in Ukraine has displaced millions. But for many families, the crisis didn’t begin with the first missile. Years of tension, instability, and economic strain had already pushed people to the edge. And yet, God had already been present, working through believers and organizations who were quietly walking with the displaced before the headlines ever came. Refugee crises are not just about geography—they’re about people who lose identity, stability, and access to healthcare, education, and hope.   How to Help Refugees without Causing Harm A natural question arises: How can you help refugees? The answer starts with humility. Not every solution is helpful. Some forms of aid—however well-intentioned—can create dependency or overlook what refugees actually want. The goal is not to “fix” displaced people, but to honor their dignity and walk with them toward healing. There are meaningful ways to help. Healthcare professionals, for example, bring skills that are urgently needed. One pharmacy student working with refugees found that the most valuable part of her time wasn’t just medicine—it was being there for the people.   Refugee Trauma Doesn’t End When Borders Are Crossed The crisis doesn’t end once a person crosses into a safer country. In fact, many refugees report the greatest emotional strain after resettlement—when the weight of loss, uncertainty, and culture shock truly sets in. That’s why refugee care isn’t just global—it’s local. Many U.S.-based churches and clinics are now involved in refugee care in the United States, offering counseling, medical help, ESL support, and spiritual community. Short-term volunteers can play a vital support role here too.   What Scripture Calls the Church to Do The Bible is clear: God sees, loves, and defends the displaced. In Deuteronomy 10:18, “He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing.” And again in Leviticus 19:34, Israel is told, “You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself…” Refugees are not strangers to the Kingdom. They are part of God’s mission. And for the Church, they are not an afterthought—they are an invitation.   You Don’t Have to Go Far to Start Helping The causes of refugee problems in the world are complex. But your first step doesn’t need to be. Whether it's advocating, serving locally, or joining a team abroad, there’s a role for anyone willing to start small and stay faithful. If you’ve been wondering how to help refugees in a way that honors both their story and God’s heart, consider starting with short-term missions. These experiences provide on-the-ground exposure to real needs while supporting long-term efforts already in place. Explore short-term mission opportunities that are designed to equip and mobilize you toward this kind of service.   Related Questions What are the main causes of the refugee crisis? Armed conflict, political persecution, human rights violations, poverty, and climate change are the leading causes. What is the biggest problem for refugees? Lack of safety, access to basic needs, and long-term legal protection are the most pressing issues. What is the biggest reason people become refugees? Most refugees flee due to violence or persecution that makes remaining in their home country impossible. What are the 5 main causes of forced migration? War, persecution, natural disasters, economic instability, and environmental degradation are the primary drivers.

There are so many options of sending agencies, that many potential missionary workers don’t know where to begin. As a result, they often get overwhelmed and paralyzed. We help make that journey manageable by teaching you what to look for to find your best-fit sending agency. Speaker(s): Josiah Harling; Steve Harling Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/finding-your-best-fit-mission-agency

TL;DR: Church planting in unreached or underserved areas is slow, intentional work that starts with service, not preaching. By integrating service and healthcare with mission, professionals can create sustainable pathways for new gospel communities to grow. Church planting is starting new gospel-centered communities where none exist, often through service, presence, and intentional discipleship. Planting a church in difficult or unreached areas takes more than passion. It requires preparation, perseverance, and a willingness to lead through service. Faith-driven professionals, including those in healthcare, can play a crucial role by meeting tangible needs that open doors for spiritual impact.   Why Church Planting Matters in Hard-to-Reach Places Church planting is more than setting up a worship service. It’s the patient work of establishing a gospel presence where none exists. In many global regions, traditional ministry models don’t fit, and the first step may be meeting physical and relational needs. Planting a church in such contexts often begins with small acts of service. This approach reflects how Jesus ministered—healing and feeding along with teaching—and why so many Christian missionaries first focus on relationships rather than programs.   How Church Planting Differs from Pastoring A church planter is not strictly a pastor and often wears many hats. Church planters step into pioneering work—evangelism, community building, leadership development, and cultural adaptation. Those called to plant often focus on outreach and starting something from nothing, rather than managing an existing congregation through pastoral care and structure. When healthcare professionals, teachers, or bi-vocational leaders join these efforts, they bring credibility and access. Meeting community needs demonstrates the gospel in action, paving the way for trust and discipleship.   Planting a Church through Service and Presence Church planting in underserved areas rarely starts with preaching. It starts with presence. Providing medical care, mentoring youth, or assisting with education can show the gospel long before words are spoken. For example, those interested in integrating healthcare and church planting find that treating physical needs can open doors for spiritual conversations. This model has become an effective strategy in regions resistant to traditional evangelism.   Foundations for Sustainable Church Planting Planting a church in hard-to-reach places requires more than a short-term vision. It involves listening to the community, raising local leaders, and laying a foundation for long-term growth. Below are essential practices:   1. Build Trust through Consistent Presence Trust develops slowly. Galatians 6:9 reminds, “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” This is especially true when planting a church where planters can face resistance from the local community.   2. Equip Yourself Spiritually and Practically Church planting is spiritually demanding and logistically complex. Training through missionary schools can provide valuable tools in cross-cultural communication, leadership development, and support raising.   3. Empower Local Leaders The goal is not dependency but multiplication. Like Paul mentoring Timothy, church planters invest in raising leaders who can shepherd the community long after the planter leaves.   4. Integrate Vocation with Mission Many planters are bi-vocational, using their profession to serve and sustain themselves. Healthcare workers, teachers, and entrepreneurs can plant churches by weaving ministry into their daily work. This “life-on-life” model often plants deeper roots than a formal program.   Challenges of Church Planting in Difficult Areas Church planting in hard-to-reach places comes with real challenges. Limited resources, cultural barriers, and security risks can discourage even experienced leaders. At times, progress feels invisible. Yet this is often the hidden strength of planting a church: it forces dependence on God, patience, and deep relationships. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Church planting is not a sprint but a steady obedience over time.   An Invitation to Begin the Journey You don’t need to be a professional pastor to start planting a church. You need a calling, preparation, and the humility to start small. Healthcare professionals and mission workers already have unique access to communities and needs that can spark gospel growth. For those sensing a pull toward long-term impact, exploring long-term mission opportunities can help with discerning your next step. Small beginnings—listening, serving, building trust—can lead to communities of faith that last for generations.   Related Questions   What is the meaning of church planting? Starting a new gospel-centered community where none currently exists.   What is the process of church planting? It begins with prayer, presence, relationship-building, and leadership development before launching public gatherings.   What does the Bible say about church planting? Scripture models church planting through the apostles, especially Paul, who planted churches and raised local leaders (Acts 14:23).   What are the disadvantages of church planting? Challenges include limited resources, cultural barriers, high emotional cost, and the risk of burnout without support.

Short-term missions. Whether you have participate in many or are just considering finding your first one, short-term mission trips do a lot of good around the world. We will be discussing five principles to ensure that our short-term mission efforts have a long-term and sustainable impact on those with whom we serve. Speaker(s): Jaime Saint Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/five-principles-for-long-term-sustaining-impact-on-short-term-trip

TL;DR: Supporting survivors of human trafficking takes more than medical skill. Faith-driven professionals need wise, informed, and compassionate care rooted in both clinical practice and spiritual conviction. Working with human trafficking victims requires more than good intentions. Survivors need safety, not saviors—people who are clinically prepared and spiritually grounded. Faith-led professionals can play a vital role in their healing by showing up with wisdom, compassion, and courage.   What Does It Mean to Truly Help Survivors of Trafficking? It means resisting the urge to “fix” and instead learning how to consistently be there for those in pain. It means creating safety without spotlighting yourself. And most of all, it means offering care that reflects both skill and the love of Christ. Too often, we assume that treating victims of human trafficking requires heroism. But Scripture paints a different picture. Jesus didn’t seek crowds—He stopped for the one. If we’re serious about working with human trafficking victims, we need to start with the same posture: humility, compassion, and a heart willing to see what others overlook.   The Invisibility of Trafficking Trauma Survivors are often right in front of us—hidden in plain sight. They show up in clinics, ERs, shelters, and counseling rooms. Many don’t disclose their situation. Some don’t even identify it as trafficking. This is where trauma-informed care becomes critical. When counseling human trafficking victims, clinicians must learn to spot subtle indicators—unexplained injuries, inconsistent stories, or visible fear in the presence of a controlling companion. Proverbs 14:31 says, “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” Seeing the unseen isn’t just good practice. It’s a reflection of who we believe God is—and how seriously we take His call to justice. Clinicians unfamiliar with trafficking dynamics can benefit from guidance on how to recognize red flags and support survivors without retraumatizing them, especially in fast-paced or high-pressure medical environments.   Why Christians Are Uniquely Positioned for This Work If you’re a follower of Jesus in healthcare, you’ve likely asked, How do I serve with eternal impact? Trafficking is one of the darkest realities of our time. And yet, God calls His people to the margins. Proverbs 31:8 tells us: “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute.” That includes victims who’ve been silenced by force, fraud, or fear. Your training matters. But so does your tenderness. In treating victims of human trafficking, clinical excellence matters. But so does presence. Survivors don’t need a savior—they need someone who won’t look away. Stories like Sarah Rymer’s experience serving survivors remind us that showing up in faith, even without all the answers, still matters deeply.   What You Actually Need to Serve Survivors Well Many assume that counseling human trafficking victims requires a special license or advanced trauma degree. While training matters, the most critical posture is one of patience and preparation.   1. Trauma-Informed Humility Isaiah 42:3 says, “[A] bruised reed He will not break.” That’s the tone we need. Don’t lead with assumptions. Lead with curiosity and care.   2. Collaboration Over Control You don’t have to do it all. Survivors often need a multidisciplinary team—medical, legal, spiritual, and psychological. Honor their agency by offering options, not orders. 3. Scripture-Led Compassion Psalm 82:4 says, “Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.” That command is not just for judges—it’s for any of us in positions of influence. If you’re working in healthcare, you have influence.   This Work Isn’t Linear. It’s Holy. There’s no tidy recovery timeline for survivors. Some days are two steps forward and five steps back. That doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you're human—and so are they. “[L]et us not grow weary of doing good,” Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:9. When you're working with human trafficking victims, endurance is your most Christ-like trait. It’s not your job to heal someone. But you can help create the conditions for healing. That’s sacred work. Bubbleje’s story illustrates how deep trust and time can be more healing than any single intervention.   Barriers to Entry (And Why They’re Not Deal-Breakers) You might be thinking: I’m not trained in trauma counseling I’ve never worked with trafficking victims before What if I say the wrong thing? These concerns are real—and they’re common. But don't let fear turn into inaction. God doesn't call you to solve trafficking. He calls you to be faithful where He’s placed you. Romans 12:11 says, “Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” Start where you are. Learn. Serve. Stay available. Heather’s story offers a glimpse into how even small acts of obedience can have long-lasting impact on the life of a survivor.   God Doesn’t Turn Away from the Exploited—Neither Can We The story of trafficking is not just about abuse. It’s about restoration. Every time you choose to sit with a survivor, listen without judgment, or advocate quietly behind the scenes—you reflect the heart of a God who sees the oppressed and calls them by name. When you care for trafficking victims, you don’t just fulfill a job description. You echo the Gospel.   Take the Next Step in Trafficking Care You don’t need to change careers to start caring about this issue. But you do need to understand what survivors truly face. MedicalMissions has gathered stories, research, and reflections from professionals serving trafficking victims across contexts—from crisis response to long-term care. These insights offer a fuller picture of the complexity, resilience, and ongoing needs surrounding trafficking. If you’re serious about learning how to help, start by understanding the landscape: Explore what survivors actually need. Insight creates clarity—and clarity helps you respond with purpose, not pressure.   Related Questions   What are the 5 P's of human trafficking? Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, Policy, and Partnership.   What are the 4 P's of trafficking? Prevention, Protection, Prosecution, and Partnership.   What degree do you need to work with human trafficking victims? Degrees in counseling, social work, nursing, or public health are common, but specialized training also helps.   Who works with human trafficking victims? Survivors are supported by a network of counselors, healthcare providers, social workers, and faith-based advocates.      

TL;DR: Medical mission trips connect your clinical skills with your calling. They impact underserved communities, deepen your faith, and offer a path toward greater personal clarity and professional renewal. Medical mission trips do more than provide care—they create lasting transformation in those who serve and those they serve. From remote clinics to personal renewal, the benefits ripple far beyond the trip itself. They bring the gospel to the front lines and invite Christians to show up with their hands, hearts, and hope. If you’ve ever asked what is a medical mission trip or why go on a medical mission trip at all, you’re not alone. Many healthcare professionals wrestle with the tension between a busy career and the quiet tug of a deeper purpose.  But those two things aren’t in conflict—they’re often two sides of the same coin. On these trips, you get to meet physical needs with an eternal perspective. You serve in communities where healthcare is scarce, but the opportunity for transformation is abundant. And as you give, something in you begins to change too.   You Give Help—But You Gain Clarity The impact of medical mission trips is not one-sided. While your hands offer treatment and care, your spirit receives something just as vital: clarity. Many who serve on the field return home with a renewed sense of calling—not because all their questions were answered, but because they saw God move while they were in motion.  There’s something about being on mission that clears the fog. The pressure to have it all figured out begins to fade, and you find yourself open to God's leading in a new way. This kind of clarity doesn’t come through overthinking. It comes through obedience. Participants often share that their sense of purpose sharpened not before they went—but while they were serving.  In 2 Corinthians 9:8, Paul writes, “And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” When we step into need with open hands, we find God’s grace is more than enough. The act of giving doesn’t leave us empty—it fills us with His presence, His strength, and His joy.   Medical Mission Trips Help Real Communities This isn’t just about personal growth. Medical mission trips bring tangible relief to places that need it most. In many low-income countries, local clinics are overwhelmed or inaccessible, and mission teams are often the only source of consistent medical care.  These teams deliver far more than medicine—they bring dignity, compassion, and relationship. In fact, a report from the Jamaica Observer highlights the long-term benefits of humanitarian medical missions, showing how they’ve improved healthcare outcomes and built trust in underserved areas through ongoing care and connection. The lasting impact of medical mission trips on global health goes beyond meeting short-term needs. Sustainable mission models now prioritize training and equipping local providers, building systems that continue long after the short-term trip ends. These aren't pop-up service projects. They’re investments in the Kingdom, made one patient, one prayer, and one moment at a time.   Short-Term Trip. Lifelong Change. Many people assume medical mission trips are only for the ultra-committed, the long-termers. But that’s not true. The benefits of medical mission trips are often unlocked in short-term service.  One week can change a heart. One moment can shift your path. And for those in the early stages of their healthcare career, these trips can be a meaningful part of discerning God’s call—not in theory, but in practice. Participants return with a deeper understanding of God’s heart for the nations. Some come back with a fresh vision for their clinical work. Others begin considering longer-term missions or local outreach. Many are surprised to find their passion for medicine reignited.  It’s not unusual for medical school applicants to reference their mission trip experience as pivotal in shaping their sense of purpose—and admissions boards tend to notice. These trips reflect more than compassion; they demonstrate character, courage, and cross-cultural awareness. You don’t need to commit to a lifetime of missions to be part of God’s story. You just need to say yes to the next step. What might God do with your willing hands and a week of your time? Start now by exploring short-term medical mission trips that interest you. Related Questions   Why are medical mission trips important? They meet urgent healthcare needs while also deepening participants’ spiritual and professional clarity. Are medical mission trips worth it? Yes—both for the lives touched abroad and the transformation sparked within those who go. Are medical mission trips good for med school? Absolutely. They show maturity, compassion, and a willingness to serve beyond comfort zones. Do you get paid for medical mission trips? Typically, no. Most trips are volunteer-based, but some organizations may help with travel or lodging costs.  

India distinguishes itself as one of the worst places in the world to die (Lancet 2015). In rural areas, because of a severe lack of access to appropriate health care, disease often simply ravages the bodies of our precious people completely unchallenged. A host of factors preclude good quality of remaining life, and a good death. Home based palliative care in this scenario is a breath of fresh air, bringing relief, comfort and hope, thus affirming the dignity of human life grounded in Imago Dei Speaker(s): Ashita Singh Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/impact-of-a-replicable-model-of-palliative-care-in-underserved-rural-indian-communities

TL;DR: Unreached people groups are communities with no access to the gospel. Scripture makes it clear—they matter to God, and that means they should matter to us. You don’t need to be a pastor to help reach them—just someone willing to go. If Jesus left the ninety-nine to go after the one, what does that mean for the three billion who’ve never heard? We’re not talking about people who’ve rejected the gospel—we’re talking about people who have never even heard it. No Bible in their language. No believers in their neighborhood. No church, no missionaries, no access to the story of Jesus. These are the unreached people groups, and Scripture shows they are close to the heart of God.   What “Unreached” Actually Means An unreached people group is defined as an ethnic group with less than 5% being Christians and not enough of an indigenous Christian community and resources to evangelize without outside assistance. That may sound technical, but it’s deeply personal. It means someone could be born, live, and die without ever meeting a Christian or hearing that Jesus loves them. There are over 7,400 unreached people groups today—representing more than 3 billion individuals. These aren’t just statistics. They’re entire communities waiting to hear the good news for the very first time. Christian mission organizations around the world are working to make that happen, but the task is far from finished.   What the Bible Says About Unreached People Groups The Bible never uses the phrase “unreached people groups,” but we are still called to them. Matthew 28:19 says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit…” From Genesis to Revelation, we see a global vision. God told Abraham that “...in you all the families of the earth shall be blessed” (Genesis 12:3), and in Revelation 7:9, we see every tribe, tongue, and nation worshiping Christ. The gospel was never meant to stop at your doorstep. It was meant to go to the ends of the earth. So are there still people who haven’t heard it? Yes—and many live in the 10/40 Window, stretching from North Africa to East Asia. These aren’t remote tribes hidden in the jungle. These are modern nations, full of cities, families, and futures—without a church in their own language.   How Healthcare Opens the Door This is where healthcare missions become essential. Some of these countries are resistant to traditional missionaries—but they’re open to doctors, nurses, and medical teams. You may not be allowed to preach openly, but you can serve in a clinic. You can offer care, listen to pain, and show the kind of love that opens spiritual doors. In many places, the impact of medical mission work on global health is what builds trust and creates space for the gospel to be heard. In places where the gospel is not welcome, your stethoscope may be the only invitation. A hospital can become holy ground. And in those spaces, trust is built—and truth can follow. You don’t need a pulpit to carry the gospel. The parable of the Good Samaritan is a prime example of this.   What You Can Do from Here So what do you do with this? You start small. You pray for an unreached people group. You learn about a region. You start asking God if there’s a role for you to play. Many are discovering that long-term medical mission opportunities offer meaningful ways to serve with lasting impact. You don’t need to have the next ten years figured out. You just need to be open. The path will come. And maybe, just maybe, that path will lead you to someone who’s never heard the name of Jesus. You don’t have to commit to a lifetime right now. But you can take a first step. Explore long-term medical mission opportunities and see where your story might intersect with theirs.   Related Questions What are the largest unreached people groups? Some of the largest are found in Bangladesh, Japan, and India. Are there still unreached peoples in the world? Yes—over 3 billion people live without access to the gospel. What does the Bible say about unreached people groups? It calls us to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19). What does "unreached" mean in the Bible? It refers to people who have yet to hear the gospel.  

After a brief overview of the global challenges that human Trafficking presents, we will discuss the role of Christians in the fight. We will present a situation report and tools that Medical Ambassadors International uses to address the problem from a grassroots perspective. We will showcase partnerships with local actors, teaching resources used in different cultural settings and the impact of networks to eliminate Trafficking. Speaker(s): Dr. Bibiana Mac Leod, MD; Zuzana Polackova MS,M.Ed Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/taking-action-against-human-trafficking-from-within-communities

TL;DR: Orphans matter to God because they reflect the vulnerable He came to rescue. Caring for orphaned children is not optional—it’s a response to God’s heart and a reflection of His mission. Because we’re called to live missionally, this is a call we can’t ignore. God defends, delights in, and draws near to the orphan. He doesn’t merely suggest we care for them—He commands it. For mission-minded healthcare professionals longing to serve with purpose, this reveals a sacred intersection between their calling and God’s heart for the vulnerable.   Why Orphans Matter Deeply to God There’s a reason James 1:27 doesn’t mince words: “Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction…” Orphan children hold a sacred place in Scripture—not because they are pitied, but because they are pursued by a God who calls Himself Father to the fatherless. When we ask, “Why are orphans so important to God?” the answer begins with who He is: compassionate, just, and deeply concerned with the vulnerable.   God’s Heart Has Always Been with the Vulnerable From the earliest pages of the Old Testament, God declares His allegiance to those the world overlooks: “He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow…” — Deuteronomy 10:18 God is not neutral toward injustice. He doesn’t wait for governments or NGOs to step in. He sees the orphan, knows them by name, and places their care squarely in the hands of His people. That’s not a guilt trip—it’s a mission invitation.  The local and global Church has an active role to play, and many are already stepping up to rethink the Church’s response to orphans and vulnerable children in the wake of present-day problems.   The Missional Call Is a Call to the Orphan Jesus didn’t just come to forgive sins; He came to renew us. And in caring for orphans and vulnerable children, we partner in that restoration. For example, healthcare professionals already live on the frontlines of brokenness—healing bodies, comforting souls. What if that calling also included healing stories? What if their skills aren’t just for clinics and hospitals, but for villages, shelters, and communities where orphans wait for someone to see them the way God does? This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most.  When you serve with presence and compassion, you reflect a Father who never turns away from the vulnerable. Understanding how to serve orphans and vulnerable children with dignity is key to honoring their humanity and God’s heart for them.   Why This Matters in Medical Missions The global orphan crisis is staggering—over 140 million children worldwide are orphaned by one or both parents. In underserved regions, medical care for orphan children is often nonexistent. Their physical needs compound emotional ones. And for many, healing can’t start until someone shows up. This is where your calling collides with God’s compassion. Whether it's through short-term trips or long-term service, your training can become a lifeline for children who've never had someone fight for their well-being. Stories from the field show how those who answer this call often find themselves blessed to be a blessing in unexpected and powerful ways.   Orphan Care Is Obedience, Not Optional Let’s be clear: caring for orphans isn’t a suggestion tucked in the footnotes of Scripture. It’s woven through the mission of the Church. It’s what pure religion looks like. And for those who’ve asked God, “How do I live a life that glorifies You?” this is one answer. And still—it’s more than a command. It’s a reflection of the gospel. We care for orphaned children because we were once spiritual orphans, adopted by grace. When we step into that space, we mirror the very story that saved us.  Throughout Scripture, God’s promises for orphans reveal His deep commitment to justice and care—truths gathered beautifully in these Bible verses about orphans.   A Tangible Next Step There are hundreds of organizations already serving orphans through medical missions. If something inside you feels stirred, that may not be just emotion—it could be direction. You don’t have to have it all figured out today. But you can take a step. Explore organizations where your training and heart for God’s mission can collide for eternal good.   Related Questions   What are God's promises for orphans? He promises justice, protection, and belonging—God is the “Father to the fatherless” (Psalm 68:5).   Why does God love orphans? Because they are His children.    What does God say about an orphan child? God says He is their Father (Psalm 68:5-6) and that His people are to care for them (Isaiah 1:17).   Why is it important to take care of orphans? Because it reflects God's heart, fulfills His commands, and displays the gospel to a watching world.  

Refugees & Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) face significant challenges to their health & well-being. Caring for people in these situations requires an understanding of their unique needs as well as having realistic goals regarding what can & cannot be done for them. Our experiences in providing healthcare for the victims of in Zaire, Indonesia, Pakistan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Honduras, Nepal, Kurdistan, Turkey, Ukraine, Haiti, Philippines, & other places – both natural & manmade – highlight the need to be well prepared when serving in these difficult situations. Speaker(s): Mitch Duininck MD, FAAFP Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2024/sessions/caring-for-victims-of-humanitarian-disaster-and-military-conflict