I have been officially accepted and have committed to The World Race January 2018 Route 2 and I am beyond excited!! I chose this route, because after I was sent home from my TC (Plot Twist) and had time to process through everything I decided I would like a route that went to Eastern Europe and Western Africa (which yes I know this route goes to Southern Africa – but my desire for Eastern Europe won out) it was also something a wonderful coworker of mine said that helped me decide which route (between the two I was looking at) she said I should choose a Route that had countries I would be less likely to go to not on The World Race (and the other route had countries I’ve been to and could go back to if/when I want).
I couldn’t be more excited to be on this route and begin to get to know my new Squad!!
Indonesia
Composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the largest island nation on earth. Though it has the 4th largest population in the world, barely a third of Indonesia’s islands are inhabited. The rest are so densely forested that they rival the Amazon jungle in their beauty and inaccessibility. Indonesia’s motto of “Many, yet one,” refers to its incredible diversity as a symbol of its unity. Over 700 languages are spoken throughout the country, which is the largest Muslim nation on earth. Will you share the unifying love of Jesus in this diverse country?
Philippines
Known for its diverse terrain of mountains, volcanoes, and beaches, the Philippines is a popular haven for tourists. A melting pot of cultures, religion, and tradition, the beautiful people of the Philippines are very diverse, with influences from America, Spain, and other Asian countries. More than a getaway for Westerners, this 7,000-island archipelago is home to many who earn less than 15 cents per day—giving them the status of “ultra poor”. In order to survive, some have resorted to prostitution and human trafficking. Will you share the freedom of life in Christ in the Philippines?
Vietnam
After nearly a century of French rule, in the mid-20th century, Vietnam was split into communist (north) and non-communist (south) halves. By 1975, Vietnam was made whole again, but as a communist country. Even with the economic reforms and restoration of diplomatic ties human rights are limited in Vietnam, especially freedom of religion; most of Vietnam is Buddhist, less than 10% is Catholic. You’ll find yourself teaching English or working in cafes forming relationships and friendships with the locals, ultimately to share the love of the Father.
Cambodia
Cambodia boasts the famous Angkor Wat, a Hindu temple that later became a Buddhist monastery. Hidden for centuries under dense jungle, today Angkor Wat is one of most photographed places in the world. Cambodia itself is struggling to heal from one of the worst genocides in modern history. In the 1970’s, the Khmer Rouge killed over 1.5 million men, women, and children. Faced with inconceivable poverty and desperation, Cambodia became a source, transit point, and destination for human trafficking. The people of Cambodia are hungry for hope and healing. Will you share it with them?
Thailand
Behind Thailand’s beautiful beaches, its people’s smiling faces, and the tropical jungles lies a terrible secret: modern day slavery. In Buddhist culture, women work to support their families so men can earn spiritual merit as monks. Many parents send their daughters to work in cities where the only option is prostitution. As the country’s natural beauty continues to draw visitors, sexual tourism continues to grow. It’s estimated 60% of tourists visit the Red Light Districts—and 90% of Thai men visit local karaoke bars for the same reason. Will you share the freedom of Christ with the broken in Thailand?
Bosnia
Technically called Bosnia and Herzegovina (try and pronounce that second word), this country is found on the Balkan Peninsula and encompasses beautiful turquoise rivers and lakes making it a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor sports. Still recovering from a war that immense damage, loss of life, and displacement of millions, Bosnia is still essentially ruled by NATO. This country is in need of God’s kingdom, will you be the one to bring it?
Kosovo
The Republic of Kosovo just recently declared its independence in 2008, after centuries of ethnic conflict. Formerly part of the Communist Yugoslav state of Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Macedonia; when the socialist republic dissolved in 1992, it preceded a decade of guerilla warfare where over 800,000 ethnic Albanians fled their homes. With recent history a close memory and the majority of the population divided by both blood and beliefs (Islam, Serbian Orthodox, and Roman Catholicism), tensions remain high. Your ministry this month will be to share the hope and healing of Jesus Christ in a land desperate for peace.
Romania
The lore of Dracula brings thousands to explore the history and beauty of Romania, from its castles to the idyllic countryside dotted with horse drawn buggies and endless herds of sheep. Formerly part of the Soviet Union, Romania is quickly rising out of the impoverished state leftover from that era. Still, economic growth is an impossible dream for many orphans and widows, who struggle to for food and hope for the future. Will you share the good news of being remembered and loved by God with those who feel forgotten and alone?
South Africa
Known for soccer, safaris, and shark diving, South Africa is the southernmost country in Africa. It’s a land of adventure. It’s also land of deep pain. Several decades since apartheid formally ended, South Africa still needs healing and reconciliation. Social injustice and racial prejudice are still rampant. Although they live in one of the wealthiest countries on the continent, most of the population outside of the big cities are poor. And like the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, this country struggles with a high rate of AIDS/HIV. Will you share the adventure of the Kingdom of God in South Africa?
Lesotho
Landlocked inside South Africa, the tiny nation of Lesotho has the 2nd highest AIDS rate in the world—right under its neighbor, Swaziland. Yet Lesotho is 90% Christian, and has one of the highest literacy rates in Africa. Despite the prevalence of Christianity and the availability of education, access to quality healthcare, travel, and educational resources is limited. About 40% of the population lives below the poverty line, and children are often forced to work instead of going to school. Will you share the difference between cultural Christianity and a life changing relationship with Jesus in Lesotho?
Mozambique
One of the most beautiful countries in the African continent, Mozambique is a favorite location of World Racers for a variety of reasons: the people, the landscape, the ministry partnerships, the miracles that this country has seen, and more. The former Portuguese colony is seeing signs of redemption and economic recovery; because of, or in spite of, the extreme poverty gripping the nation, the church grows. You will teach, preach, and practice “true religion” with widows and orphans while you grow in your identity in Christ. One of your most interesting travel “days” may happen here.
I will post another update on life soon… I just wanted to get this one posted because I am so so so excited!!
Also donations are able to be done through my blog again… but if you’d rather write a check message or e-mail me ([email protected]) for those details 😀
