Frequently Asked Questions

The retreat includes worship, life-changing speakers, small-group discussions, question-and-answer times with missionaries, personal reflection and prayer.

The retreat fee covers retreat materials, two nights lodging, three meals on Saturday and breakfast on Sunday. Click the specific retreat you are considering from the Dates & Locations page for the registration fees.

Take advantage of the early registration fee; ten days prior to a retreat the cost increases $25 per person. Also, since space is limited for these retreats, space may not be available if you wait too long to register.

Cancellation policy: When necessary, the retreat will refund all fees paid minus a $20 processing fee.

Is the cost a hindrance to you coming? Don’t let money keep you from discovering your journey into God's plan for your life. If you have the desire to learn more about missions and how to bring the glory of God to the nations but don't have the funds, ask the Lord to provide.

Go to your pastor and request a meeting. Share your desire to explore becoming a missionary and ask for financial help so you can attend the retreat. Even if you have only been attending for a short time, they will probably still want to help you. Also, consider inviting a friend to invest in you and your potential life in missions.

Cast a large vision; don't just ask them to pay for a retreat. You are a worthy investment. They are not giving you a handout, and you are not begging. The Great Commission is the most worthy vocation on the planet, and investing in potential missionaries is a strategic investment in God’s Kingdom. This is their offering to the Lord, and you receive it as from the Lord. If you have this perspective, then you will understand why the Apostle Paul asked the Lord to provide and then asked the people to give. The body of Christ is God's instrument.

(Sponsorships are tax-deductible; checks should be made payable to MissionNext and mailed to the attention of Paul Erdmann, PO Box 12649, Chandler, AZ 85248-0028)

Retreat participants come from a variety of ages and life stages. Small groups are a key part of the retreats; small groups meet four times throughout the weekend with the same missionary coaches. There are discussion groups for college students, young adults, mid-lifers, baby boomers, and retirees - anyone willing to explore becoming a missionary. There are no accommodations or programs for children.

Ask God to prepare your heart. Invite friends and family to join you in prayer. Pray for:

• The prospective missionaries who are coming to see what God has for them.
• Experienced missionaries who are coming to serve as coaches.
• Clear minds, open hearts, and physical health and endurance for each participant.
• Safe travel for all involved.
• Wisdom, grace, and patience for the speakers and staff.
• The Lord of the Harvest to send forth workers into His harvest fields.

This is just a weekend so be practical, but don't forget your basics. These items you will certainly need:

• Bible
• Notebook & Pen
• Toiletries, etc.
• Casual clothes only
• Questions you want to ask the missions coaches
• Money to buy books (checks or cash, no credit cards)
• Optional: a digital camera if you're willing to take some shots that could be added to our website.

Coaches who have been asked to lead part of the concert of prayer: bring thumb drive with one slide.

Lodging is included in your registration costs. Everyone who participates in the retreat will stay overnight on site even if you live nearby. You will receive an email with details as the time gets closer to the event.

The retreat begins on Friday at 7 pm with check-in typically between 5 pm and 7 pm. Missions coaches should plan to check-in a little earlier for the Coaches Meeting Friday at 5 pm. Dinner is not available Friday evening so please eat before you come. The retreat concludes around 12 noon on Sunday. Sunday lunch is not provided. Missions coaches will debrief and leave Sunday at 2 pm.

The retreat is a weekend experience with missions coaches and aspiring missionaries. It is not a conference of workshops where people can attend just part of the event. To experience all the conversations and connections, participants need to stay on site. If you have regular responsibilities at church on Sunday, please ask if someone else can cover for you.

Please email tjd@finishers.org about flights before you purchase an airline ticket. Or better yet, fly Southwest Airlines since they do not charge change fees. Please select a flight that arrives Friday before 5pm and departs Sunday after 2 pm. Missions coaches should select a flight that arrives Friday around 3pm and departs Sunday after 4.00 pm.

About a week before the retreat begins you will receive the email addresses of others who are coming from your area so you can consider sharing a ride together as well as directions to the event.