PRAY CONTINUALLY – 1 THESSALONIANS 5:7
The World Race | 11 countries 11 months
Hello! I hope you are in good health. I wanted to send you a quick update about what I have been up to these days. As you may know, I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services from MSU-B, while working hard to support myself as a CNA for 4 years at St. Vincent’s Healthcare in Billings, MT. I have also been striving to improve myself physically running 4 half marathons and signing up to complete 2 more this year in Fargo, ND and Seattle, WA. I went on a short-term mission trip to Ethiopia last June. Ethiopia was a life changing trip for me! The work I was able to do there to help others was an amazing experience that I will treasure forever.
My Ethiopia trip helped me realize there is much more I need to do in the world to help others. It compelled me to apply for a spot on an even larger mission trip! I recently learned that I was accepted to join a team as part of the World Race! The World Race is through a group called Adventures in Missions. It is an 11 month Christian mission trip to 11 different countries. I have been called to join in on Route 3 in October of this year! I am filled with excitement, yet, also very nervous. I know that this will be an adventure that I won’t regret and such a life-changing experience to be a follower of God! I believe this is what I am called to do and I want to share my experiences with you. I am asking for your support in prayer.
With being part of Route 3 the countries I will be visiting are; Guatemala, Nicaragua, Panama, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Swaziland, Lesotho, South Africa, China, and Mongolia. The route can change but that just makes for a greater adventure. The World Race sends out 40-60 people in each team. I will attend training camp in Georgia in August to prepare for the Race and to pass my physical requirements, which is hiking 3 miles in 50 minutes with all my gear on.
Being a part of something so amazing for 11 months obviously will come at a cost. The cost for this trip is $18,017 and I have a great start already toward my goal. I have been working extra shifts at work to help prepare for the financial costs, selling some of my personal belongings, picking up babysitting duties and plan to put in most of my earnings towards the trip. The money goes towards covering all travel, team costs, food, lodging, and aid. It will also cover administrative, set up, coaching, debrief, and training costs. If you are able to donate, any amount would be very much appreciated. I have included a fundraising card for you to fill out. I thank you in advance for your prayers and/or financial support. May God bless you richly!
With Love,
Jessica Leonhardt
