Germany Missions Trip 2026

A graphic announcing a missions trip to Germany in 2026. The German flag waves over a historic building. Text details the interest meeting on Nov 2.

July 30 – August 10, 2026  

Ages 16–22  
Led by Xano & Seraphina Lowe
What We’re Doing

What We’re Doing

We’re partnering with Pastor Michael Landoll and his network of churches in Kusel, Germany for a 10-day youth missions experience called Take-Off — a camp that’s been running for decades and brings together young Christians from around the world. 

Students from the U.S., Germany, Switzerland, Portugal, and other countries will come together to serve local communities, grow in their faith, and experience what it means to live out the Great Commission globally.

Throughout the week, our team will:  

  • Lead kids programs and serve in local churches  - Visit and minister at nursing homes  
  • Participate in refugee outreach and community service  
  • Support local pastors and ministries wherever help is needed 

This is a hands-on opportunity to love people, serve others, and grow closer to Jesus while connecting with believers from around the world. 

You don’t need to speak German to join — the camp is conducted in English, and Seraphina Lowe (who is bilingual and a dual citizen) will serve as translator whenever needed.

Why We’re Going

Why We’re Going

Our goal isn’t just to go somewhere new — it’s to join God in what He’s already doing in Germany. Germany has become a growing mission field, with many young people searching for truth and a large refugee population seeking hope and belonging.

This trip gives students the chance to:  

  • Experience what global ministry looks like up close  
  • See how the gospel transcends language and culture  
  • Learn to share their faith through service, not just words  
  • Bring that passion and experience back home to serve locally 

As Xano and Seraphina shared during Sunday’s service, this trip represents both a return to a ministry that shaped their own lives and a way to help our students step into global missions for the first time.

“We’re taking people to see what we did and to connect our church with the church I worked with there,” Seraphina shared. “It’s a chance to teach our students how to do ministry in other places — and then bring that back here.” 

Our prayer is that each participant not only impacts others but also comes home changed

FAQ

Anyone ages 16–22 by July 30, 2026, who is an active follower of Jesus and committed to growing in faith. No perfect people required — just a willing heart to serve.

July 30 – August 10, 2026. Participants should plan for an extra day on either end to account for travel time.  

Estimated $1,900–$2,100 (final cost depends on airfare). Students will contribute $150 of their own earnings, parents will contribute $200, and adults (18+ out of high school) will contribute $350. The remainder will be raised through fundraisers, support letters, and service projects. Fundraising is a vital part of the experience — it allows others to participate in sending you to share the gospel.

Additional costs may include:  

- Passport (~$130)  

- Recommended vaccines (varies by insurance)  

- Airport meals (~$50)  

- Spending money for shopping/excursions (~$100)

Xano and Seraphina Lowe — Community Church members and missionaries with extensive international experience and deep personal connections in Germany. They’ve served in missions across multiple countries and have a passion for equipping the next generation to carry the gospel worldwide.

We take every precaution to ensure safe travel and ministry:  - Partnering with trusted local churches and leaders  - Monitoring U.S. State Department updates  - Serving in low-crime, family-friendly areas  - Providing on-site orientations and safety briefings  - Maintaining strong medical and local support networks 

And above all, we trust that the safest place to be is in the center of God’s will — whether in Germany or at home.

Submit your team member application and $200 deposit to Todd Hixenbaugh by January 14, 2026. Space is limited to 15 participants (priority given to students). Selected applicants will be notified by January 16, then complete the official Students International application to finalize participation.

Interest Meeting

📅 Sunday, November 9 • 12:30–1:30 PM  

📍 Community Church of Portage Lakes, The Parlor 

Come learn more about the trip, meet the leaders, and ask questions — no commitment required.  

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