"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
Blessed with the presence of HIS EMINENCE METROPOLITAN YOUSSEF
Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern United States
Blessed with the presence of HIS GRACE BISHOP YOUSSEF
Bishop of Bolivia & Affiliated Regions
Iglesia Santa María y San Marcos Copta Ortodoxa
PLEASE READ ALL THE INFORMATION CAREFULLY BEFORE REGISTERING.
The SUS Diocese Mission Experience Trip is an annual event under the auspices and direct leadership of His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef. The focus is on the mission ministries and global evangelization efforts of the Coptic Orthodox Church. This blessed opportunity fosters personal spiritual growth and cultural appreciation. Participants on this trip will share in various services according to the needs of the hosting diocese with opportunities to serve people of all ages. We will share in every aspect of the society as much as possible. Each participant will be assigned specific duties as needed. All services are consistent in holistically serving the individual, family, and community.
SERVICES: The mission experience will include Divine Liturgies & Midnight Praises, Bible Studies, services to children, youth, families, colleges, and medical and dental services. We will also enjoy some excursions to experience the beautiful landscape and history of the Dominican Republic.
The service of missions is a special calling. The daily activities are intense and will entail long hours and distance travels. We ask each person contemplating joining this trip to pray and carefully consider if the rigor of this program is personally suitable.
DATES: August 31, 2025 - September 12, 2025
EXCURSIONS: We will visit several historic and beautiful sites throughout the country. TBA
All participants must arrive on Sunday, August 31st and leave on Friday, September 12th.
REGISTRATION OPENS: Sunday, January 19, 2025 at 8:00 PM Eastern Standard Time
https://registration.suscopts.org/
ATTENDEES: 20 Persons
Participants must be at least 18 years of age or older and have completed high school by August 31, 2025. Participants not meeting this criteria must be enrolled in high school and be accompanied by a parent.
SERVICES: Medical & Dental Services Needed. Other participants must choose an area of service: children, youth, families, women, men, educational, psychological, technical, food preparation, … etc.
ITINERARY: Daily itineraries will be emailed to all attendees.
AIRPORT: Gregorio Luperón International Airport (POP), Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
Airport Pick-Ups: Sunday 08/31/2025 @ 3:30pm.
Airport Drop-Offs: Friday 09/12/2025 @ 10:30am.
Please plan your flights according to the times posted. No Exceptions!
AIRFARE: Attendees are responsible for the purchase of their own airfare to and from
Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
EXPECTATIONS: The group MUST remain together throughout the trip.
Everyone must attend all prayers, liturgies, praises, lectures, services, reflections, and meals together.
TOTAL COST: $750.00 USD Per Person $700 Registration + $50 (at least) Amazon Wish List + Donations
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/5BFK1TTLTI2F?ref_=wl_share
Registration fees and donations may be paid by Zeffy (The link is provided on the confirmation email).
A confirmation email will be sent to each attendee. (Note: Please keep all confirmation emails, donations, and purchases on behalf of this mission and services for your own taxes. The diocese will not be sending duplicate copies).
Donations are greatly appreciated even if you cannot attend in person.
REFUND POLICY: $250 NON-REFUNDABLE (tax-deductible)
+ ALL expenses and fees paid in advance on your behalf will also be deducted from your refund.
If once you register, but later decide to cancel, you cannot give your spot to someone else.
The next person on the waiting list will be notified for that vacant spot.
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Lodging: Church Accommodations. Rooms vary from 2 - 4 people according to availability.
Attendees may choose roommates. Please write your roommates name in the registration comments.
Rooms at retreat centers will include different styles of beds and some bunk beds.
INCLUDED: All meals, lodging, excursions, and transportation within Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic.
EXCLUDED: Airfare to and from the Dominican, donations, and personal items
VISA: Not required for US citizens (valid passport for at least 6 months and return ticket)
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Highly Recommended
TRAVEL ADVISORY: Please check frequently as guidelines are subject to change.
Required and recommended vaccines are subject to change. Please check frequently.
VISA if not US citizens: Please check on your own.
DONATIONS: Online donations, cash, or check made to the Coptic Orthodox Diocese of the Southern US
SPIRITUAL STUDY: TBA
His Eminence Metropolitan Youssef & His Grace Bishop Youssef
REGISTRATION OPENS: Sunday, January 19, 2025 @ 8:00 PM EST (20 Attendees Only)
https://registration.suscopts.org/
Kindly contact the mission coordinator for any questions or concerns: missionexperience@suscopts.org
"I will show you my faith by my works" (James 2:18).