You can’t build trust in a week.

That’s why our student mission strategy doesn’t center on the trip—it centers on the relationship. We train our students to see missions as something they show up for again and again. Not to fix something. Not to lead with answers. But to be part of what God is doing through long-term partnership.

Here are 3 reasons why we train students for relational missions:

1. Partnerships Change People, Not Just Plans

When we first started showing up at Reborn Church—one of our mission partners New Orleans, we weren’t instantly welcomed with open arms. There was skepticism… and rightfully so. But year after year, we kept going back. Eventually, they saw we weren’t just bringing students. We were bringing a commitment. That partnership has changed our students just as much as it’s shaped our ministry. Now, Reborn is family.

2. Returning Builds Trust—and Students Notice

There’s something powerful about a student hearing, “We’re so glad you’re back.” It reshapes the way they see their role. They’re not tourists or volunteers. They’re known. They’re part of the story. Our students don’t just visit—they return. And that return builds trust, which opens doors to deeper conversations, shared stories, and spiritual growth on both sides.

3. Students Learn That Missions Isn’t About Them

Short-term trips can easily feed a hero mentality if we’re not careful. But relational missions flips that. Students start to realize, “We’re not here to bring Jesus to this place—He’s already here.” They learn to listen before leading, to ask good questions, and to show up with humility. Over time, they see that missions is more about faithfulness than flash.

So if you’re discipling students for mission, don’t just train them to go. Train them to return. Teach them to stay connected. Show them what it looks like to honor partnerships by showing up again.

Because in the end, missions that last are built on relationships that do too.