SHINE Mission

SHINE Missions began as a single mission to Chiapas, Mexico, in 2006 and is still continuing. Each year a mission takes place in a selected needy country for 5-8 days. Mini missions have additionally been occurring, sometimes 2-3 a year, at other needy sites.

Each mission takes a team of medical volunteers: doctors, dentists, nurses, dental hygienists, medical assistants, journalists, haircutters, pastors, and individuals who provide other necessary skills.

In most countries the primary language has been Spanish. Interpreters are often needed.

During the clinics the doctors diagnose patients' problems and do what they can. Teeth are cleaned, and dentists drill and fill cavities, sometimes apply veneer, and sometimes prostheses are made. Reading glasses are given out, and all medication is dispensed at no charge (while it lasts) to patients.

Pastors are available to pray and give counseling on the clinic sites. In addition, evening services are held in local churches and on the Sabbath.

Some individuals are selected from the clinics to receive followup treatments (surgery, medication, hearing aids etc.) after the clinics have closed.

Mission sites are usually recommended by the IMC (International Ministerial Council) and by the General Conference of the Church of God (Seventh Day) Church of Denver, Colorado. A host church in the country--and a member of the international Church of God (Seventh Day) conference-- helps provide clinic sites, some personnel to help the medical team during the clinics, and advertisement to the public about the clinics that will be set up.

Funds for each mission are raised by donations and fundraising events, and this goes to fund medications, hotel and food costs, and transportation in the country. Team members pay for their own transportation to the country.

During the year many presentations are given to churches across the USA about what SHINE Mission does, upcoming missions, and information about how individuals may become involved (whether by donations or becoming team members).