This summer, I had the privilege of heading up a team of 17 Westminster members for another successful mission trip to Anchorage, Alaska. We served our dedicated SEND missionaries by preparing and serving meals during their annual conference. Just as important as serving meals, we also rocked their babies. More than being just a kitchen crew or children’s volunteers, we went to bless those who tirelessly serve in remote, isolated, and often harsh Arctic locations.

High Points & Challenges

One of the biggest successes – a surprise and unexpected blessing, actually – was the size of our team. While we initially worried that 17 people might be too many, having a large team let us branch out and spend time caring for the littlest ones in the group, our future, the missionaries’ children. The size of our group also made it possible for our team's veteran members to fill the invaluable role of mentoring the newer volunteers and providing leadership and guidance throughout the trip. This mix of seasoned and new volunteers was a major strength of the trip.

The Mission of the Trip

Our primary mission was to allow the missionaries to relax, reflect, and recharge, as they converge on Anchorage after spending a year in the remotest of remote places, sharing God’s Word. What better way to do this than to feed them and take care of their children. We went to do the hard, physical work, standing on our feet for 12 hours a day, sleeping in bunk beds, and sharing accommodations, so the missionaries didn't have to and could relax. In the process, it looks like we may have even paved the way to expand our volunteer opportunities to take on more of the childcare responsibilities on the mission trip next year.

The greatest blessing was the opportunity to serve, even in a small way, and to give these incredible missionaries a break from their daily duties. It was so encouraging to sit and break bread with these families, to hear their stories, and to share yours with them. It’s amazing how many of these people started their mission work as a summer internship, and they are still there, full time, 20 years later.

Looking Ahead

As we look to next year, we are excited to start planning even earlier to ensure a smoother experience for everyone. We want to recruit more new members to be "shadows," learning from our veterans so our mission to Alaska can continue for years to come. There are even discussions about expanding our role to include other areas of service, like children's ministry and worship, to provide even more support to the missionaries.

We are so grateful for the support of our church family for this mission and look forward to sharing more about next year's trip as plans are finalized. 2026 short-term projects are already being planned. Let us know if you would like to get involved in Westminster's catalytic global missions ministry.

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