Developing a Public Health–Informed Best Practices Model for Faith-Based Short-Term Mission Planning
Abstract
Introduction: Short-term mission (STM) trips have grown substantially over the past several decades, particularly among U.S.-based faith communities; however, concerns persist regarding unintended harms, lack of sustainability, and insufficient attention to social determinants of health. This study asks: How do U.S.-based faith leaders plan and implement international short-term missions, and how can public health principles inform best practices that promote capacity building and minimize harm? Methods: Structured around interpretive description (ID) and a constructivist paradigm, this qualitative study conducted semi-structured interviews with faith-based STM planners and leaders of host or receiving organizations in low- and middle-income settings. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling, and interviews were conducted via Zoom. Audio recordings were transcribed using AI-assisted transcription within MAXQDA and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Coding followed an iterative process including codebook development, memo writing, and pattern analysis to identify themes related to partnership dynamics, power, sustainability, and preparation practices. Results: Findings revealed recurring gaps in structured needs assessment, power awareness, and outcome evaluation, alongside strong relational motivations and commitment to service among planners. Host perspectives emphasized the importance of long-term partnership, culturally responsive preparation, and alignment with locally defined priorities. In response, this study developed a cyclical best-practices planning model anchored in partnership discernment, co-design, and shared implementation. Conclusion: These findings contribute a theoretically grounded, practice-oriented framework to guide faith-based organizations toward more ethical, sustainable, and health-equity–oriented short-term mission engagement.
Start Time
15-4-2026 9:00 AM
End Time
15-4-2026 12:00 PM
Room Number
Culp Ballroom 316
Poster Number
46
Presentation Type
Poster
Presentation Subtype
Posters - Competitive
Presentation Category
Health
Student Type
Graduate and Professional Degree Students, Residents, Fellows
Faculty Mentor
Bethesda O'Connell
Developing a Public Health–Informed Best Practices Model for Faith-Based Short-Term Mission Planning
Culp Ballroom 316
Introduction: Short-term mission (STM) trips have grown substantially over the past several decades, particularly among U.S.-based faith communities; however, concerns persist regarding unintended harms, lack of sustainability, and insufficient attention to social determinants of health. This study asks: How do U.S.-based faith leaders plan and implement international short-term missions, and how can public health principles inform best practices that promote capacity building and minimize harm? Methods: Structured around interpretive description (ID) and a constructivist paradigm, this qualitative study conducted semi-structured interviews with faith-based STM planners and leaders of host or receiving organizations in low- and middle-income settings. Participants were recruited using purposive sampling, and interviews were conducted via Zoom. Audio recordings were transcribed using AI-assisted transcription within MAXQDA and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Coding followed an iterative process including codebook development, memo writing, and pattern analysis to identify themes related to partnership dynamics, power, sustainability, and preparation practices. Results: Findings revealed recurring gaps in structured needs assessment, power awareness, and outcome evaluation, alongside strong relational motivations and commitment to service among planners. Host perspectives emphasized the importance of long-term partnership, culturally responsive preparation, and alignment with locally defined priorities. In response, this study developed a cyclical best-practices planning model anchored in partnership discernment, co-design, and shared implementation. Conclusion: These findings contribute a theoretically grounded, practice-oriented framework to guide faith-based organizations toward more ethical, sustainable, and health-equity–oriented short-term mission engagement.
