The Louisiana Office of Missional Engagement and Outreach oversees the work of missions, which includes everything from disaster response to domestic and international mission trips.
Our call is to reach out to those in need and engage the church to be the hands and feet of Christ in a time of need. This important work is most effective when volunteers are equipped and empowered and this training does just that.
Our work is to empower churches and their laity and clergy to do missions locally and beyond. So many locations today are now requiring someone on your team to have taken the Team Leader Training (TLT) class.
Volunteers in Mission is a channel whereby Christians, both lay and clergy, may offer their skills and talents for Christian service at home and around the world on short term assignments.
Their work can include anything from construction and renewing of mission facilities, teaching, witnessing, conducting medical clinics, teaching Bible study or Vacation Bible School for children, and clean water programs.
In addition to a broad understanding of how missional outreach and engagement is both effective and a call from God, our leadership training events will also cover a wide range of topics, including:
Currently, a team of volunteers representing administrative functions and geographical mission areas runs our organization. All mission-minded volunteers are welcome to be a part of this group. If you are interested in helping in any capacity, please call (225) 346-1646.
LAVIM had set aside funds again this year for Grants to Mission Teams.
A few things to note:
Please submit your application at least 2 months prior to leaving on the mission. This way we have time to make decisions and get the money to your team before you leave. Apply online at http://www.la-umc.org/grantapplication
Established in 1996, the United Methodist Volunteers in Mission program organized a grass-roots movement of dedicated volunteers who were already serving their communities locally, nationally and internationally. Since then, countless people have been equipped and connected in a variety of projects including teaching, construction, evangelism and medical treatment.
Above all, the purpose of Volunteers in Mission (VIM) is to share the love of God in ways that make a Christian difference.
The administration of this program is organized by United Methodist conferences under the General Board of Global Ministries of The United Methodist Church. The Louisiana Conference encompasses the entire state, but volunteers are not required to be Methodists or to live in Louisiana. The only essentials are a willing spirit for putting love into action and openness to serve in cultural context.
As a mission resource, Louisiana Volunteers in Mission (LAVIM) offers team leader training, recruitment, contacts for insurance and travel arrangements, suggested paperwork, and connections to domestic and international projects. Please browse the links to the right for more details or call (225) 346-1646.
Would you like an experienced mission team leader or a United Methodist missionary to share their adventures with your church or group? Please email: lavim@la-umc.org
