"Strong Missions is a wonderful organization, helping to build the Kingdom of God. Through their work with the poor and disenfranchised of Costa Rica, they are building relationships that are opening people's hearts to the gospel of Jesus Christ. Their partnership with churches and other organizations also shows how trusted they are in the larger Costa Rican community."
-Rev. Adam Knight, Outreach Pastor & West Campus Pastor, University UMC, San Antonio (4 time trip leader)
“Strong Missions is a fabulous "turn key" missional experience. They offer a well-equipped, professional operation that is sure to meet your ministry's needs for a safe and affordable mission opportunity. They take the worry out of the mission field logistics so you and your team have the space to experience God at work around you. “
-Rev. Kimberly Orr, Associate Pastor, Windsor Village UMC, Houston (4 time trip leader)
Strong Missions gave me a reason to do mission work. I had traveled in Costa Rica as a tourist before, but as a missionary, I learned to appreciate the struggles of another culture, the beauty of the country, and the graciousness of the people. The people of Costa Rica are so appreciative of the help that Strong Missions brings to their country. Strong Missions also lets the missionaries see the country as well as work for the cause. It is a great experience. Thanks to you Charlie and your Staff.
Joann Mutch, Wesley UMC Macomb, IL Jan. 2011 January 2011Janklajsdflkajdsfkljasdklfjlkajdflkasdjflkjsdlkfjlkajflkwaej
Bernie and I had such a positive experience at the Charlie Strong Mission site in 2010 that when our ex-daughter-in-law asked if we would bring our 14 year-old grandson on our next mission trip with us we knew it would be safe to do that as we planned on returning to Costa Rica in 2011. He had an eye-opening mission experience as did we.
Bernie & Gloria Wesloh, Minnesota UMVIM 2010 & 2011
One of the many things I appreciated most about StrongMissions was the work experience itself. It was so well organized and such a variety of projects that there was meaningful work for everyone of every ability. Charlie had tools, equipment and "stuff" to get the work started beginning day one. Fantastic! Wonderful Costa Rican food, a safe environment, and a sense of joy that permeates the air you breathe. The best experiences in more than ten years of mission travel. Thanks, Charlie.
Sheila Gronemann, Minnesota UMVIM Team 2011
STRONG MISSIONS IN COSTA RICA IS AN EASY PLACE TO BRING A WORK TEAM. CHARLIE STRONG AND HIS STAFF TAKE CARE OF EVERYTHING: lodging, meals, transportation, translators, tools, variety of projects, project supplies, local foreman, and excursion arrangements on our days off.
Dennis & Barb Glad, Co-coordinators 2009 & 2010. Minnesota UMVIM
My mission trip experience with Strong Missions was excellent. The living and working conditions were super. The combination of work and time spent enjoying beautiful Costa Rica was perfect. Worshiping with the local people and teaching Sunday school was such an enjoyable experience. I would recommend a short term VIM trip to others as you will be blessed as you are a blessing to others.
Jan Duscher, Minnesota UMVIM 2010 & 2011
Strong Missions is a mission-trippers dream for its varied well-organized work possibilities, excellent home-cooked local food, comfortable lodging and exciting escorted free time trips. The spirit of the Lord is in this place.
Diane Bushyager, Minnesota UMVIM 2011
In our time of service, we were strengthened by the "can do" attitude our Christian brothers and sisters displayed, despite the adversity they confronted courageously. We were all reminded of our global unity in Christ.
James Sicks, Mission Trip Participant 200
Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. I love it there! The weather is the perfect temperature all the time and while I was there, it felt like I was in a magical place. It was all so surreal. Being in Costa Rica gave me a new appreciation and zest for life. I came back feeling refreshed and energetic. One of the greatest feelings in the world was when I was working with the kids at the school and I knew I was helping them. I knew that our being there was making a difference in their lives. The first day we were at the school, it was really hard for me. It made me realize just how lucky I am but it was difficult for me to handle working with the kids because it was all so sad. By the end of the week, we had come to know the children very well and we had shown them God’s love for them through the many friendships we made. I could tell God was all around us because of the smiles that were brought to each child’s face every time we walked into a room or the way their faces would light up when we said “hola” to them. Even though there is a language barrier, it doesn’t matter because the language of love knows no bounds. This was and probably will be one of the greatest experiences of my life.
