Spend Spring Break Serving in Iceland
This February, Mount Vernon Nazarene University is partnering with Compass to offer you an unforgettable journey to Iceland.
Compass is more than just a mission trip—it’s an opportunity to explore, serve, and contribute to creating a more just and sustainable world. This cross-cultural mission trip is designed to help you not only live out your faith, but also examine yourself and the world, grow your talents, skills, and imagination, and act for justice in community with others. Through deep connections and unique adventures, you’ll cultivate a sense of belonging that extends beyond spring break.
COMPASSION
With its welcoming spirit, Iceland offers support and care to those navigating uncertain times. Many within its borders come from across the globe, seeking sanctuary, hope, and new beginnings. We extend compassion to both Icelanders and a diverse population of immigrants and refugees, all seeking a fresh start in this unique and hospitable land.
JUSTICE
Compass partners with the Salvation Army at three locations throughout Iceland. Together, we meet the physical and emotional needs of everyone who comes through their doors — whether Icelandic citizens or those from afar. Through this partnership, we are committed to bringing justice and restoration to those seeking a fresh start.
HOPE
Amid Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, we embody hope through self-giving service. Our work not only uplifts those we serve but also renews our own spirits. In Iceland, we strive to live out Christ’s love, learning as much as we give, and growing through the relationships we build.
What do we actually do when we’re in Iceland?
Our approach to international service is that we do whatever is needed of us. The frontlines of compassion services present ever-changing needs. Whether it's sorting clothing donations, running a children’s camp, serving meals, or providing free workshops in arts and sports — Compass is in constant communication with our Icelandic counterparts. We prepare each group for the specific work that's needed when we arrive.
Our service in Iceland isn't just about doing; it's about being. We practice intentional presence and living our personal values during all portions of the trip. Many meaningful moments will come from relationships rather than tasks.
Compass empowers individuals to pursue purpose through community and exploration. We believe purpose lies at the juncture of our passions and the world's needs. During your time in Iceland, you'll acquire invaluable skills for nurturing a sense of purpose in all areas of life.
Here’s a little more of what happens in Iceland:
SCHEDULE
Travel dates are set but schedule of events while in-country is tentative and exact events are subject to change. Further details will be provided in pre-trip trainings.
Every day on the program will begin with personal quiet time. Each evening will conclude with small group debriefing, known on Compass as ‘Table Talk’ as well as journal content and programming provided by Compass.
Please note: Iceland is an incredible country and a beautiful tourist destination, but we remind all of our participants that our primary intention is service and learning. We have ensured that this trip includes set times for sightseeing and souvenirs, but it is important for participants to enter the trip with the expectation of respecting the parameters we have in regard to tourism and shopping so as to not detract from the primary aim of our time in Iceland.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Students fundraise for their Compass experiences. The fundraising goal for the Compass 2025 MVNU Spring break experience is $2,650.
This covers food and lodging, bus tickets, airfare to and from Iceland, and all expedition and ministry expenses in country. We suggest you bring spending money in case you’d like to buy souvenirs of any kind. But it is possible to get in and out of Iceland without purchasing any of these (we’ve managed it ourselves).
In order to secure your spot on the trip, a non-refundable $250 deposit is due within seven days of your acceptance. This counts toward the $2,650 total amount.
We prioritize financial accessibility to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to participate in our trips. If finances are a concern, we encourage you to apply and then reach out to us at info@compasspath.org to discuss available financial options.