Frequently Asked Questions - Trip Preparation

Yes, we can print pictures from a digital camera, but not from regular film cameras. We need two days to complete this printing, to be safe. We also strongly encourage teams to bring polaroid cameras so they can share pictures with the Ukrainians immediately. It is better to buy too much film than not enough with polaroid camera’s. SCM only uses digital cameras.

Individuals in the church would like some sort of memento from your state of origin. The church itself, would appreciate financial donations to purchase equipment, etc. All funds for churches will be given at the end of each trip by the team or by SCM on behalf of the team.

Go ahead and bring these with you on the airplane. If any customs officer asks you what they are for, express that they are “personal items” that you are using to bless orphans. Emphasize that they are YOUR items, or you will need to pay customs. Never use the word “gift.” You are allowed 2 pieces of luggage at 70 pounds each. Please weigh your luggage before the date of travel. If you are over the allowed weight, you will be charged for the extra weight.

Send SCM the songs by email. There is the likelihood that they are already in Russian. If no, we will have them translated and prepared in advance. Expect to use transparencies or handouts in most locations.

Yes, we want everyone to be prepared to give their testimony, to sing, and to prepare one or two dramas. Below is a basic format of how you should give your testimony.

1. Name & brief informational background (live in Colorado, work at ____) [20 seconds]
2. Explain when you became a Christian and what the Lord did to orchestrate your salvation [3-4minutes]
3. Explain the blessings you have received since becoming a Christian (from God, Church, etc.) [1-2 minutes]
4. Briefly explain your hope in Christ for the future - Generally speaking (I love Jesus so much, I cannot wait to see what wonderful things he will do in my life in the future.) [1 minute]

For maximum impact and church time restraints, testimonies should be between 5-6 minutes.

I prefer you bring a polaroid and lots of film so you can immediately hand them out to people. But, I would bring a digital camera too.

Yes, I would recommend that you purchase some Euros dollars before you leave the US. You can use Euros in Ukraine, the airports or a stop over in another country on your way back home after the mission trip.

Please send your application and deposit of $375 per person to the following address:

Slavic Christian Ministries
4218 SW 55th Cir
Ocala, FL 34474

You can never have too many planning meetings.

Yes, I would highly advise that you find prayer partners. If the enemy can mix things up he will try. You will be able to communicate with your prayer people by email from Ukraine. Some recommendations of prayer include your flights, luggage, itinerary, vehicles, sickness, team harmony, and ministry fruit.

SCM is the trip organizer and administrator. SCM is responsible for organizing and preparing a sound trip experience once the team departs the plane in Ukraine. While the church short-term trip team leaders are in charge of the team, SCM is in charge of organizing all the logistics for the trip while inside Ukraine. After the team completes their scheduled trip and departs Ukraine, SCM relinquishes herself from all responsibilty and liability once the plane departs the terminal.

It is the short-term missionary team’s responsibility to plan, organize, and teach all curriculum, sermons, music, drama, games, and sporting events associated with the mission trip.