2020 has been a year of unexpected changes. Almost everyone has had events and trips canceled and plans change. We’ve all had to be creative and find ways to still connect even though we can’t be in a room together. Cafe 1040 usually runs three overseas programs in three locations every year. We had many students who were excited to go overseas and learn about long term missions firsthand. When it was evident that the pandemic was going to get worse before getting better, we realized we would have to adapt. Some people also desire to learn more about missions and day to day life overseas but are unsure if an overseas program is a right fit for them right now. What would be the best way to connect with these people whose plans have changed and who wish to learn more about missions? The answer, of course, is Zoom! We created a brand-new experience that allows participants of any age and location to journey with our overseas missionaries for four weeks to learn about the life of a missionary, all without having to get on a plane.

We talked to a participant of our Virtual Missions Experience and asked him some questions about missions and what he hopes to learn from VME.

Q: Why did you decide to attend VME?

A: The main reason I decided to attend is to just simply grow. First, I want to grow deeper in my knowledge of the unreached in the world. Second, I want to grow deeper in my understanding of the great commission and my role in it. Lastly, I want to see the love in my heart grow deeper for the unreached people around the world.

Q: What is your current or past involvement in missions?

A: Over the past few years, I have had opportunities through my church and school to go on three short term mission trips. These trips were all to South America and reached people groups. I hope in the future I will have more opportunities to go on mission trips in the 1040 window.

Q: What are you hoping to learn from VME?

A: There are three main things that I am hopeful VME will give me insight on. First, is how do I know when it’s the right season to go? Second, what ministry should I be sent by? Third, what is the best way to get prepared to go now? Third, what is the best way to prepare right now to go onto the mission field?

Q: Are you hoping VME will give you clarity on your role in the Great Commission?

A: I am excited to learn from the missionaries and the Cafe 1040 team about what fellow believers’ roles are in the great commission. I’m excited to see and learn about how God’s kingdom is moving forward in unreached regions of our world.

Registration is now closed!