Volunteers in Missions

Putting our faith into action is at the very heart of our Christian calling.  At Ankeny FUMC, we have realized that short-term mission trips often both put us in touch with persons in need and draw us into closer relationship with Christ.

Each year our National Volunteer in Mission Ministry Team organizes one or more short-term mission trips within the United States.  Participants generally pay for the cost of their trip lodging and food, while the church provides use of church vans and funds for needed project supplies.  While we traveled several times to Mississippi after Hurricane Katrina, in recent years we have unfortunately had enough disaster relief work right here in Iowa to keep us busy.  Our mission trips have taken us to Parkersburg after the tornado and Cedar Rapids for flood relief.   2011 saw trips to both Cedar Rapids and western Iowa for flood relief.  Often we cooperate ecumenically with other churches for these trips.

For 2012, we are planning a spring mission trip the week of April 15.  The location will be determined at a later date.  In addition to our mission trips, which are comprised of primarily of adults, our Youth Ministry also plans two mission trips per year, one during Spring Break and one in the Summer.  Adult volunteers are always welcome to accompany the youth.  Our international short-term mission trips are focused on our partnership with the United Methodist Church in Malawi, which you can read about on our Malawi Mission page. To get more information about 2012 trips, contact the church office, 964-4249.