Be the light.

Short-term mission trips can transform lives, including yours.

Travel with purpose.

You feel a deep desire to go, but you’re wondering:
If you can give money from home to help, why go on a mission trip?

First and foremost, there’s work to do. Our trips offer practical, meaningful support to those we serve. But that’s just the beginning. As trip goers serve, they’re transformed. Meaning, when you take a trip with Petros Network, you will:

Grow your appreciation of other cultures

Shape your understanding of missions, and

Expand your view of the Kingdom of God.

Be the change that changes you.

We invite you

to join us for this once-in-a-lifetime missions experience.

We go as citizens of a nation; we return, with hearts forever dislocated by the Almighty, as missionaries to the world.

— Dr. Ray & Linda Noah, Founders

If you’re on the fence, rest assured.

OUR TRIPS ARE:

An icon representing safe trip

Safe

We’ve led thousands of people on safe, meaningful trips over the last decade.

Our whole process—before, during & after—is carefully designed.

An icon representing heart inside globe

Impactful

You’ll undergo an immersive Gospel experience that leaves a lasting impact.

Our trips help support & nurture church plants.

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Unique

Help indigenous leaders spread the Gospel to previously unreached people.

Destinations are extremely poor places where few have ever gone.

Explore the opportunity.

God is so good.

WE HAVE SO MUCH TO CELEBRATE:

Testimonials from participants.

Your Role:
Teaching the Church Planters in Doctrine and Theology.

Your Experience:
I had the privilege of preaching the commissioning service this past year (when we send the church planters out into unreached villages to share the Good News and plant a church). I am always brought to tears as the new church planters come up front. Most of them are so young and so excited. They have no formal education. Not even a Bible in some cases. And yet the Lord uses them powerfully to plant churches in unreached villages. It is a constant reminder to me that God doesn’t call the qualified so much as He qualifies the called.

Your Transformation:
It is the single most important thing I do every year.

What would you say to someone on the fence about going?
If you want to experience the miraculous presence and power of the Holy Spirit at work, go to Ethiopia.

Doug Resler

Parker, Colorado

Your Role:
Taught financial literacy and entrepreneurship to 130 widows over a 3-day conference.

Your Experience:
An unforgettable experience was when we visited one of the widows’ home (shack) and I saw how poor her living condition was. The whole family survived on just a few little potatoes each day. When asked what she got out of the conference, she could recite almost everything that we taught! She was inspired to start her own business with what she learned so she could support her family and provide them with a better life. It was truly one of the most emotional and rewarding experiences of my life!

Your Transformation:
I will never be the same again!

What would you say to someone on the fence about going?
You cannot afford not to go when God desires your vision to be stretched and to commission you to a higher calling. I would 100 percent go again!

Yvonne Yua

British Columbia, Canada

Your Role:
I taught an introductory mechanics class in an area with no access to a mechanic shop or vocational training.

Your Experience:
The young men I taught were so eager to learn. I was encouraged by their grasp and understanding of all that I taught them. It was a blessing to me to hear their hearts and what they dream about for their future.

Your Transformation:
This trip and others like it have impacted my life significantly by showing me how God will use the talents and skills that he gives you to teach others and build lasting relationships.

What would you say to someone on the fence about going?
Be obedient in your calling. Trust that God will use you and your abilities to reach all people. He has gifted each and every one of us; we just need to obey.

Carl Hughes

Beaufort, South Carolina

Your Role:
I was ready and willing to do whatever was needed.

Your Experience:
The people of Ethiopia are beautiful inside and out. The interaction with the orphans and widows was so rewarding. The joy I saw in their hearts will forever be imprinted in my mind and heart. When in Southern Ethiopia, the stories that the Church Planters detailed to us were of a committed faith that I had never witnessed before. They were bold and courageous to ‘make Jesus’ famous even at times in the presence of threats.

Your Transformation:
I will forever be impacted by my Ethiopian experience – the lack of resources does not temper the Ethiopian heart! I long to return!

What would you say to someone on the fence about going?
You will be blessed many times over. Go with an open heart, flexibility, unconditional love, and a willingness to serve.

Val Goodwin-Colbert

Bailey, Colorado

READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?

Here’s how it works:

Go where no one else is going.

Go where no one else is going.

Let’s go!

Whether you’re interested in spiritual leadership, healthcare, construction, engineering, education, homemaking, or humanitarian work — there’s a place for you to serve.

ETHIOPIA – UGANDA – SOUTH SUDAN – MYANMAR

2025 Trip Opportunities

Leadership Training and Community Development:
Church Planting, Small Business, Global Farming, Women’s Empowerment, Girl’s Power and Boy’s Program, Children’s Feeding Initiatives, Healthcare, Clean Water, Technology, Construction, and Sports Outreach.

Winter / Spring / Summer / Fall

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You may still be wondering…

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How much does a trip cost?

Typically trips run anywhere from $3,100 USD to $5,000 USD for combo trips (multiple locations). The total depends on airfare, location(s), and duration of trip.

Trip Payment Schedule:

  • Application Submission: $375 trip non-refundable deposit due to secure your spot
  • 90 Days before the trip: $1,000 due
  • 60 Days before the trip: $1,000 due
  • 30 Days before the trip: Remaining balance due

Note: If paying by card, there is a 4% card processing fee.

What is included in the fees?

Trip fees include:

  • Short-term travel insurance
  • Airfare
  • Hotel
  • Tips
  • Transfers
  • Ground transportation
  • Basic meals
  • Clean water and hygiene

Not included:

  • Passport fees/photos
  • Immunizations
  • In-country Visa
  • Luggage beyond airfare allowance
  • Flight insurance
  • Laundry service
  • Specialty drinks
  • Meals at the airport
  • Souvenirs
  • Medications
  • Electrical adapters
  • Possible COVID tests

 

What training do you provide?

We offer pre-trip training where we lay out roles and responsibilities of each traveler and answer any questions you may have.

What are the qualifications of your staff leaders?

Ray and Linda Noah have served in pastoral ministry for over four decades. Linda has been involved in leadership development in faith and business sectors during that same time. For the past twenty years, Ray and Linda have planted churches in East Africa. In 2012, the success of this church planting effort led the Noah’s to form the Petros Network, a ministry dedicated to planting churches among unreached people groups and equipping these churches/leaders to be catalysts of transformation in the villages in which they are planted. The result is what Petros Network has termed creating Redemptive Lift. Ray has Masters of Arts in Theology from Northwest University and a Doctor of Ministry from the Assembly of God Theological Seminary. Linda is completing her Masters in Leadership Studies.

Who can go on a mission trip?

Anyone is invited to join us on a short-term mission trip. We invite you to take the gospel plunge and join us on a life-impacting experience. As a Petros Network trip participant, you are joining a group of passionate partners whose hearts are stirred to reach the unreached and care for the poor. Together we will serve in some of the poorest, most remote, hard-to-reach places in the world; places where there is little or no infrastructure or resources; and places where people have never experienced God’s love or heard about the saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Those under the age of 18 may travel to the countries we serve with a parent, guardian, or qualified youth leader. The accompanying adult will assume responsibility for the minor’s behavior and safety. This adult must be willing to leave the trip to accompany the minor home if any behavior or safety reasons warrant the return. Petros Network believes that children of all ages can have a tremendous impact when traveling on outreach trips. It is important that children are mature, flexible, and capable of handling, seeing, and processing economic poverty. However, it is up to the discretion of the parents to determine the appropriate age for their child to travel with us.

In fulfilling our mission, international trips are scheduled multiple times a year with activities varying according to the needs of the local community and the various skills of team members. Some of the challenges found in the areas we serve often seem insurmountable; and yet, when we work together, we can impact one village at a time and then another…and another. That is why we are so excited to have you join us on one of our upcoming Petros Network trips.

Typically, our teams are made up of individuals with a wide variety of giftings and passions. Specialized training is welcomed, but not necessary. If God is calling you to join us, we expect this trip to be one of the high points of your life.

What this short video, Why Go On A Mission Trip:

What types of trips do you offer?

At Petros Network, we work across 100+ denominations and partner with people like you to train and empower indigenous missionaries to meet physical needs, share the Gospel, and help it spread throughout the unreached world.

The needs of the communities we serve are great, and each of our trips can be unique depending upon the team involved and the needs of the community we are serving. Trip itineraries can also vary from one country to two countries, from 10 days to 20 days. Typically, our teams are made up of individuals with a wide variety of giftings and passions. This, along with the tremendous need, allows Petros Network trip participants to serve in various areas and have a God-glorifying holistic impact. Below are activities most teams will experience:

Building, Empowering, and Launching Leaders | Building indigenous leaders is at the core of what we do. We believe a trained leader is the HOPE of the world!

    • Church Planter Training and Ministry Development
    • Leadership Training and Development
    • Small Business Training and Development
    • Personal and Life Skill Training and Development
    • Bible and Christian Literature Distribution
    • Administrative Help: Training check-in and support, conducting Church Planter interviews

Providing Humanitarian Care | We extend God’s love through acts of compassion and care. Jesus not only spoke the WORD, but He cared for the people!

    • Protecting Children: Education, food, clothing, medical care, and support as needed.
    • Empowering Women: Small Business training, life skills, business development, micro-grants, renovating homes, personal care, skill-building through the TESFA Project, etc.
    • Improving Healthcare: Medical and dental clinics
    • Providing Clean Water and Sanitation: Well drilling, water purification, sanitation development
    • Feeding Families: Farming and agriculture initiatives, food distribution
    • Building Character Through Sports: Sport clinics, events

As a trip participant, you will be asked to roll up your sleeves and be the hands of Christ extended in your area of gifting as well as some expanded areas. You may also be asked to help transport training or medical supplies, to serve in a stretching role, or even to teach or give your testimony to a local congregation. We will attempt to use your unique skills and passion for the greatest impact for the glory of God. We can promise you will never be the same.

Tourist Visa application tips
  1. Check Requirements
    • Visit the official immigration website for the latest requirements.
    • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and has at least one blank page.
  2. Prepare Necessary Documents
    • Scanned Passport Bio Page: Clear and legible.
    • Passport Photo: Recent photo, meeting the specified size and background requirements.
    • Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Proof of vaccination may be required.
    • Travel Itinerary: Include flight details and accommodation bookings.
    • Invitation Letter (if applicable): Document will be sent to you by the Mobilization Specialist of Petros Network.
  3. Complete the Online Application
    • Visit the official e-visa portal: Uganda | Ethiopia  | South Sudan
    • Choose the correct visa type: Select “Single Entry Tourist Visa.”
    • Fill in details accurately: Ensure names, passport numbers, and dates match your official documents.
    • Hint: SURNAME is your last name. GIVEN NAME is your first and middle name.
    • Provide a valid email address: This is where your visa approval will be sent.
  4. Common Application Sections
    • Personal Details: Include full name, nationality, and date of birth.
    • Travel Details: Specify purpose of visit, entry point (e.g., Entebbe Airport), and duration of stay.
    • Host Information: Provide details of your hotel or country host.
    • Upload Documents: Ensure all uploads are clear and meet size/format requirements.
  5. Pay the Visa Fee
    • Have a valid credit or debit card ready for payment.
    • Keep a record of your payment confirmation for reference.
  6. Submit Application
    • Carefully review all details before submitting to avoid delays, especially dates (e.g., birthdate and passport expiration date). The online system may differ from the USA’s format, so double-check the dates you enter before submitting. Be cautious, as sometimes saved information defaults to the current date upon submission. This is especially important for birthdates during the application process.
    • After submission, you’ll receive a tracking number or reference ID to monitor your application status.
    • Regularly check your “junk mail” folder and log into the system to track the status of your application. Occasionally, they may request additional information. By monitoring your application, you can promptly respond to any requests and avoid delays.
    • Be sure to check your junk folder for emails from eVisa. It’s also likely that you will need to sign in to your account to download your visa, as they may not automatically email the approved visa to you.
  7. Waiting for Approval
    • Visa processing typically takes 2-3 business days but could be longer during peak seasons. Plan accordingly.
    • Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a visa approval letter.
  8. At the Port of Entry
    • Print and Carry: Bring a printed copy of your visa approval letter and supporting documents.
    • Present Documentation: Show your passport, approval letter, vaccination card, and return flight ticket.

Additional Tips:

  • Apply at least 2-4 weeks before your travel date to allow for processing time.
  • Double-check time zones for deadlines when applying online.
  • Keep digital backups of all submitted documents for reference.

By following these steps, you’ll ensure a hassle-free visa application experience!

Tips for short-term mission trips
  1. Plan and Pack Wisely
    • Pack light and include versatile, modest clothing appropriate for the local culture.
    • Bring essential items like a refillable water bottle, a small first-aid kit, a flashlight, and toiletries.
    • Be cautious with valuables. Leave expensive items at home and carry only what you need.
    • Use a carry-on for valuables, medications, and anything you can’t afford to lose.
    • Keep copies of your passport, visa, travel itinerary, and travel insurance in your luggage and with a trusted person at home.
    • Review your flight’s luggage requirements for both carry-on and checked baggage. For example, when traveling with Ethiopian Airlines, carry-on bags must not exceed 23 x 40 x 55 cm and must weigh under 15 pounds. You are allowed two checked bags with a maximum total size of 62 inches (158 cm), including handles and wheels, and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (23 kg) per bag.
  2. Stay Organized
    • Keep your travel documents, ID, and money in a secure, easily accessible place, like a money belt or travel wallet.
    • Have a printed copy of important contact numbers (team leaders, local hosts, and emergency services) in case your phone runs out of power, is broken, lost, or stolen.
  3. Respect the Local Culture
    • Learn about local customs, language basics, and social norms before you travel.
    • Dress modestly and appropriately to show respect for the community. Avoid wearing shorts.
  4. Take Care of Your Health
    • Stay hydrated by drinking bottled or filtered water and avoid consuming ice or tap water (even when brushing teeth).
    • Be mindful of food safety by opting for freshly cooked meals and staying clear of unpeeled fruit or street food unless approved by trusted locals.
    • Protect yourself from mosquitoes by wearing repellent and long-sleeved clothing, especially in malaria-prone areas.
    • Check if malaria medication is needed for the areas you are traveling to. Order it through your doctor or travel clinic well ahead of time.
    • Be sure you have proof of required vaccines for the area you are traveling.
  5. Stay Connected with Your Team
    • Always notify your team leader of your location if you need to step away, and ensure you stay in groups of at least two.
    • Build relationships within your group for encouragement and accountability.
    • Stay connected to your team and engage in group prayer and reflection.
    • Take breaks if you feel overwhelmed or stressed during the trip.
    • Seek help from team leaders if you feel unwell physically or emotionally.
  6. Embrace Flexibility and Humility
    • Things may not go as planned, for example, flights could be delayed, or cultural differences might present challenges. Stay patient and open-minded.
    • Approach new situations with a willingness to learn and an attitude of humility.
    • Focus on serving the local community rather than imposing your own ideas.
  7. Practice Financial Wisdom
    • Carry small amounts of cash in local currency and store it securely.
    • Avoid displaying wealth or expensive items, which could make you a target for theft.
  8. Communicate Thoughtfully
    • Be cautious when taking pictures; always ask for permission first, especially if it involves people.
    • Share your experiences sensitively on social media, respecting the dignity of the individuals and community you are serving.
  9. Stay Focused on Your Purpose
    • Keep the mission’s goals at the forefront, focusing on building relationships and serving with love.
    • Let love, humility, and the Gospel guide your interactions and decisions.
    • Reflect daily on your experiences and how they are shaping your faith and perspective.
How does COVID-19 affect the trips?

The restrictions in the areas we serve have been heightened by COVID-19 regulations. While traveling from Country to Country you may need to obtain a Covid test prior to travel. Some countries may require vaccination as well. Our Mobilization Specialist can answer any questions as well as provide up-to-date information on COVID-19 international travel.

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Why do people typically go on your trips?

If you are a medical professional, a business man or women, a teacher, a mother, a construction worker, a theologian, a nanny—we need you! Every trip we have a wide variety of projects from working with our widows and orphans to teaching our church planters and everything in between that keeps us going each day.

What this short video, Why Go On A Mission Trip:

How do I raise the funds?

We believe God is already providing you the resources necessary for your trip. If you do not have the means readily available, God may desire that you use the need as an opportunity to allow others to participate through prayer and giving, and to grow your own faith and dependence on Him in the process.

Here are some suggestions to help you get started:

  1. Fundraise Through Your Trip Account
  2. Face-to-Face Fundraising
  3. Send Out Support Letters

Reach out to us at travel@petrosnetwork.org for more fundraising information.

    Where do we stay?

    Our teams stay in local hotels in or near the areas we serve. Trip fees include double occupancy hotel accommodation. Single-room accommodation is available for an additional fee. Each trip participant may indicate the name of the person they wish to share the room with as part of the trip application process. If requesting a single room, you may indicate that on your application.

      What will I eat?

      Generally, food will be prepared by our national hosts and/or eaten in local restaurants. We will eat items such as lamb, chicken, some beef, cabbage, lentils, potatoes, and eggs. Coffee, tea, sodas, and bottled water will be available throughout the day.

      It is important to be cautious about what you eat. Avoid fruit that cannot be peeled, uncooked vegetables, salads, fruit juices, raw eggs, and uncooked meat or unprocessed cheese.

      Team Members are encouraged to include snack foods, sweets, and granola bars in their luggage. It’s possible that we might miss a meal during our travels, and having a taste of home can provide comfort on a challenging day.

        Packing List for Trip

        Pre-Departure

        • Credit Card: Notify of travel
        • Insurance: Life
        • Frequent Flyer Card(s)
        • STEP Registration
        • Insurance: Trip Cancellation

        Travel Documents

        • Real ID Driver’s License
        • Passport
        • Health Documentation/Vaccinations
        • Yellow Immunization Card
        • Printed Visa(s)
        • International Medical Insurance
        • Transportation Tickets
        • Emergency Information
        • USA Embassy Contacts
        • Country Invitation Letter

        Personal Medicines

        • Antacids
        • Electrolyte drink mix (Nuun, Liquid I.V.)
        • Prescriptions
        • Malaria pills
        • Vitamins
        • Aspirin/Tylenol

        General

        • Petros Network Luggage Tags for bags
        • Luggage Wrap Identifier
        • Travel alarm clock
        • Bible/journal/pen
        • Camera/batteries/charger
        • Flashlight/batteries
        • Insect repellent
        • Personal snacks
        • Sleeping bag/pillow
        • $100 to $200 Cash, no bills older than 10 years
        • Sunburn remedy
        • Sunglasses
        • Sunscreen
        • Travel towels/washcloths

        Optional Considerations (not in carry-on bag)

        • Addresses of supporters
        • Artificial sweeteners
        • Contact lens care items
        • Flip-flops
        • Hair dryer
        • Inexpensive watch

        Clothing (be conservative)

        Men

        • Jacket (dress, casual)
        • Pants (dress, casual)
        • Shirts (dress, casual)
        • Shoes/socks
        • Sleepwear
        • Tie (if necessary)
        • Underwear

        Women

        • Casual dresses
        • Light jacket
        • One Sunday-type dress
        • Pants
        • Shoes/socks
        • Skirts
        • Sleepwear
        • Undergarments

        Personal

        • Body wipes/sanitizing wipesChapstick / lip balm
        • Comb/brush
        • Deodorant
        • First Aid Kit
        • Lotion
        • Razor/ shaving cream
        • Shampoo
        • Soap
        • Toilet paper
        • Toothbrush/paste/floss
        • Photo album of family
        • Pocketknife
        • Reading materials
        • Travel games
        • Voltage adapters/Outlet converter
        • Wide lid water bottle

        Travel Gear

        • Daypack/duffel carry-on bag
        • Document organizer
        • Eye shade / ear plugs
        • Money belt (worn under clothing)
        • Suitcase locks with keys
        • Travel clothing
        • Travel footwear
        • Travel neck pillow

         

        How do I secure a passport?

        A valid passport is required to travel to Africa. Here is a quick checklist for a valid US passport:

        • Your passport has your correct full legal name on it. (If your name has changed for any reason, the name on record with the Social Security office must match your passport.)
        • Your passport has at least three blank pages for Visa purposes.
        • Your passport does not expire for at least six months from the departure date.

        If all three items are not checked, it is imperative you begin the process to obtain/update your passport.

        If You Have Never Had a Passport or You Need to Renew Your Passport

        • If you are applying for a passport for the first time or renewing your passport, we recommend you START HERE.
        • This simple questionnaire will help you understand the process and determine your fees, required documentation and support materials HERE.
        • The regular processing time to obtain a passport is about six weeks. You can expedite your passport for an additional fee, but we strongly encourage you to begin this process well before your trip.

        If You Have Applied, Have Concerns or Want to Check on Your Passport

        • If you have concerns about your passport or the process, please contact the National Passport Information Center HERE. You can also speak directly with a Customer Service Representative at 1-877-487-2778.
        • Once you have applied for your passport, you can track the progress online HERE.

         

          Interested in learning more about our trip activities?

          See a team in action in our Uganda highlight reel from a recent trip. Click HERE to watch!

            Gift-giving on a short-term mission trip
            Consider Love and the Gospel as Your Greatest Gifts

            When preparing for a mission trip, it’s natural to think about bringing tangible gifts, but your love, presence, and the message of the Gospel are the most meaningful offerings. While it may be tempting to give personal items or money directly to individuals, we encourage you to prioritize the community’s long-term well-being and avoid actions that could create dependency, jealousy, or community conflict.

            For example, imagine if your parents returned home and gave your sibling a gift but not you. How would that make you feel? Similarly, selective giving can lead to unintended harm within communities. Such actions may also create expectations for future groups to bring gifts, which can complicate relationships and hinder sustainable development.

            Instead, focus on solutions that empower individuals and align with the work already underway by Petros Network and local leaders. Remember the timeless principle: “Give a man a fish, and he eats for a day; teach a man to fish, and he eats for a lifetime.”

            Suggested Gifts to Bring on a Short-Term Mission Trip

            If you’d like to bring tangible gifts, consider items that are culturally appropriate, practical, and meaningful. Coordinate with local leaders to ensure the gifts address real needs and are distributed equitably.

            Community Gifts

            • School Supplies: Pencils, pens, crayons, notebooks, erasers, and rulers.
            • Toys: Hacky sacks, deflated soccer balls (with a pump), or frisbees.
            • Hygiene Items: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, mirrors, bars of soap, or combs.
            • Glasses: Affordable glasses of varying strengths and/or sunglasses.
            • Clothing: Socks and washcloths.
            • Practical Items: Empty water bottles are often considered valuable. While traveling, you may give your used bottles to children along the roadside at the driver’s discretion.

            Things to Avoid

            • Candy Distribution: Offering candy to children can encourage begging and unhealthy habits rather than fostering meaningful relationships and interactions.
            • Items That Create Dependency: Avoid giving gifts that might lead to reliance on external aid or create inequality within the community.
            • Expensive or Inappropriate Gifts: These can lead to feelings of obligation, favoritism, or even conflict among individuals.

            By focusing on gifts that uplift and empower the community while respecting their dignity and culture, you help ensure that your actions align with Petros Network’s sustainable development efforts. Thoughtful giving builds trust, fosters relationships, and supports the long-term growth of the communities you serve.

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