San Jose, Costa Rica
July 25-August 1, 2026
Trip #290
Trip Cost: $1295 + airfare
Join us this summer in Costa Rica! As the Evangelical Methodist Church grows nationwide, its Seminary and Conference Center needs expanded space to train pastors and gather leaders. Our team will assist with construction to help make room for discipleship and church growth to continue.
-
Costa Rica is known for its natural beauty, but what shapes the country most deeply is its people. Costa Ricans call themselves Ticos, a nickname rooted in their habit of using the diminutive “-tico” to express warmth and familiarity. It reflects something true about the culture. Life here moves relationally, not hurriedly. Ticos value peace, family, and community. The national phrase you’ll hear everywhere is “Pura Vida,” which literally means “pure life,” but in practice communicates contentment, gratitude, and a steady approach to life. It’s used as a greeting, a goodbye, and a reminder to slow down and receive the day as it is.
Relationships matter more than efficiency. Conversations are unhurried. Hospitality is genuine. Respect is shown through listening and presence, not through volume or urgency. Trust is built slowly, but once it’s established, it runs deep.
Faith and the Church in Costa Rica
Historically, Costa Rica has been shaped by Catholicism, which still influences national holidays, traditions, and community rhythms. At the same time, many people today describe themselves as culturally religious but spiritually searching. Church affiliation does not always equal active discipleship, and many communities are open and curious about deeper expressions of faith.
Over the last several decades, evangelical movements have played a significant role in renewing and reshaping the Church in Costa Rica. Among them, the Evangelical Methodist Church has had a meaningful impact, especially in local discipleship, community-based ministry, and leadership development. Rather than operating as large institutions, many Evangelical Methodist churches are deeply embedded in their neighborhoods, emphasizing Scripture, relational discipleship, and lived obedience.
These churches often serve as places of stability and hope, particularly in areas where families face economic pressure or social change. Pastors and leaders are frequently bi-vocational, carrying the weight of ministry while remaining closely connected to everyday life in their communities.
As you serve in Costa Rica, remember this. You are not arriving where God is absent or where the Church is weak. You are stepping into a story that is already unfolding through faithful local leaders and churches who know their people, their culture, and their challenges. Your role is not to lead from the front, but to walk alongside. To listen, learn, and encourage. To honor the ways the Church has taken root here, and to support what God is already growing through His people. Presence will speak louder than plans.
-
Across Costa Rica, the Evangelical Methodist Church is growing. New leaders are being trained. Churches are being strengthened. Worship is rising in communities across the country.
At the center of that movement is the Methodist Seminary and Conference Center — a place where pastors are equipped, leaders are discipled, and the Church gathers to pray, learn, and be sent back out.
Because of this growth, the facility now needs to expand.
This team will serve alongside the Evangelical Methodist Church by helping construct an extension that will include dormitory space for students and leaders traveling in from across the nation, along with a larger gathering room to host trainings, conferences, and retreats.
This isn’t just about adding square footage. It’s about creating space for discipleship to multiply. Space for leaders to be strengthened. Space for the Church in Costa Rica to continue growing without outside dependence.
No construction experience is required. Just a servant’s heart, a willingness to work outdoors, the ability to lift at least 30 pounds, and readiness to follow local leadership as we support what God is already building.
Come walk with the Church in Costa Rica — and help make room for what’s next.
Fun facts about the Evangelical Methodist Seminary and church in Costa Rica:
The Evangelical Methodist seminary was founded by one of Asbury Theological Seminary’s (ATS) alumni 36 years ago and though separate entities, is one of the global partners with ATS.
Since 1989, the church has grown from 23 congregations with approximately 2000 members to over 120 congregations serving over 25,000 people.
-
As a team we will be staying on the same site we are working at - the Evangelical Methodist Seminary/Conference Center. There are dorm-like rooms with shared bathrooms. Men and women will stay in separate areas.
-
Upon arrival to the country, you will be picked up at the airport. Because we will be staying and working on the same site, transportation will be minimal and based on certain outings. These outings (church services and a tour day) will be done with a personal and professional bus driver who has worked with the Gober family and many other missionaries.
-
Participants will enjoy simple, traditional Costa Rican meals prepared by our hosts, including rice and beans, eggs, meat, fresh fruit, and local beverages like coffee and fresh juices. Meals are kept basic and nourishing. Those with dietary restrictions can opt out of specific items, and there is a nearby grocery store where team members can purchase additional snacks or specialty foods during scheduled group visits.
"When you enter a town and are welcomed, eat what is offered to you." – Luke 10:8
-
At Go InterNational, participant safety is our top priority. Our internal team and external consultants use a multi-layered risk management approach, including monitoring global reports and collaborating with ministry partners on the ground. We enforce safety protocols, such as requiring students to be with an adult, while our hosts provide location-specific guidelines. Our team leaders have been trained in risk management principles and have both on-field and home-office support to ensure a secure experience.
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." – Psalm 46:1
-
$250 Trip Deposit – A $250 fee is required to reserve your spot, which goes toward the overall cost of the trip.
Payment Schedule:
1/3 of the trip cost is due 3 months before departure
2/3 of the trip cost is due 2 months before departure
Final payment is due 1 month before departure
Our team will provide support and guidance throughout the fundraising and preparation process.
-
Good health
Willingness to serve
Abide by the cultural expectations of hosts
Passport expiration date CANNOT be prior to February 9, 2027
No tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs, or profanity
Must meet all deadlines including all documentation and financial obligations
Must complete a background check. An email will be sent to you after you complete your background check from our secure service, CheckR, asking for further information
Your team leader
Questions? Email natalia.gober@asburyseminary.edu or call 859.858.3171
-
Your team will be led by Natalia Gober. Having grown up in Costa Rica for 10 years as a missionary kid, she has continued returning for ministry ever since. Through years of serving alongside her family and partnering with the Evangelical Methodist Church of Costa Rica, she has developed a deep love for the people and the work God is doing there.
This ministry has deeply shaped her own life, and she is passionate about leading teams that serve humbly alongside local believers. Natalia’s heart is to see others draw closer to the Lord, grow in their faith, and be empowered by the Holy Spirit through meaningful partnership and discipleship. Natalia will accompany your group throughout the trip, facilitating ministry activities, coordinating logistics, and providing spiritual encouragement. She will be available for:
✅ Pre-trip planning
✅ Daily devotionals
✅ Debriefing sessions
✅ Ongoing support to ensure a meaningful and transformative mission experience
"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." – Matthew 28:19