A flow through Micro-Electromechanical Systems (MEMS) package and methods of operating a MEMS packaged using the same are provided. Generally, the package includes a cavity in which the MEMS is enclosed, an inlet through which a fluid is introduced to the cavity during operation of the MEMS and an outlet through which the fluid is removed during operation of the MEMS. In certain embodiments, the fluid includes an gas, such as nitrogen, and the inlet and outlet are adapted to provide a flow of gas of from 0.01 Standard Cubic Centimeters per Minute (sccm) to 10000 sccm during operation of the MEMS. The package and method are particularly useful in packaging spatial light modulators including a reflective surface and adapted to reflect and modulate a light beam incident thereon. Other embodiments are also provided.