Lives change when missions happens. MissionLab New Orleans was birthed about ten years ago when some like-minded youth ministry folks agreed that not all kids are at the same level of maturity or ability when it comes to a mission experience. We did agree that they all need missions experiences to help them to be discipled as Jesus would disciple.

Almost 10 years later, thousands of hours, seemingly countless meals, brooms, hammers, games of tag, relationships with community, etc. we are still doing MissionLab as a ministry of the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. MissionLab has expanded beyond youth to include collegiate projects, family opportunities, and even senior adult weeks. The stories representing changed lives have been numerous and heart-warming.

My role here at NOBTS is to teach youth ministers. MissionLab has strengthened my conviction that at the center of authentic discipleship is missions. Students are more likely to develop strong convictions when they see their faith at work. One writer said that "it is easier to act your way into right belief than to believe your way into right action." I think he is right.

Lives change when missions happens.

I hope to see you in New Orleans this fall, spring, or summer. Help us rebuild our city -- physically and spiritually -- one life at a time. I can promise you that you won't go home the same way that you came.

Dr. R. Allen Jackson
Professor of Youth Education
New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary
3939 Gentilly Blvd.
New Orleans, LA. 70126
504.816.8103
youthministryinstitute.org