By Jenny Pope
Buckner International

They’ve studied the language. They’ve packed their bags. And now they’ve taken off.

Twenty-one college students and young adults flew across the world May 30 to destinations as far as Peru, Guatemala, Romania and Latvia to serve orphans and at-risk children as interns during the month of June.

They are the first of two intern groups to serve this summer. Interns will later travel to Ethiopia and Kenya, as well.

“Our interns play a big role in our summer ministry in these countries,” said Jeremy Copeland, missions coordinator. “They’re there for an extended period of time which allows them to build stronger relationships with the kids than typical mission teams. They are also a big help to our staff.”

The longer time spent in each country also provides students interested in missions with a broader vision of international ministry, he said.

Morgan Byrd, 19, is traveling to Guatemala for her second stint as a Buckner intern.

“Last summer taught me a lot about myself,” she said. “I was more shy before that. Working with kids really helped me come out of my shell. It helped me grow in my walk.”

Byrd said she isn’t certain that missions will be a full-time career, but “it is definitely something that is always going to be a part of my life.”

Students and adults can apply for the summer internship in early spring.

More information and application details can be found at www.itsyourmission.com/signup.shtml or by calling 1-877-7ORPHAN.

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Meet the interns and read more about their experiences abroad at itsmymission4kids.blogspot.com.