11 countries in 11 months is pretty crazy and really outstanding. Here is a look at the countries I will be residing in, in order, and a little information on each!
Panama
Home to the Panama Canal and the largest rainforest outside of the Amazon, the country of Panama connects Central and South America.
And thanks to the Canal, which also connects the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic, Panama is one of the leading economies in Central America.
The Panama Canal is a two-edged sword, however, because it also allows for increased drug trafficking.
Panama sits at a place of power of opportunity in the world, as it holds the key to crossing between oceans, and also connects two continents. Will you live your faith in this land of possibility and potential?
Costa Rica
A hot spot for surfing, Costa Rica is an adventure seeker’s paradise. Between its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and beautiful people, it’s easy to enjoy “pura vida” there.
Outside of the tourist destinations, however, are large pockets of poverty and broken families throughout the nation. The country itself is transitioning from self-sufficient farming societies to more urban living. Traditional morals and lifestyles are giving way to a modern, consumer-oriented world.
The people of Costa Rica need to remember the unchanging love of Jesus and that it is still real and relevant to their lives. Will you GO?
Nicaragua
Called “The Land of Lakes and Volcanoes,” thick rainforests, rugged highlands, and beautiful beaches define Nicaragua’s beautiful landscape. Its rich history dates back to the Spanish conquistadores.
However, hopelessness, addiction, destitution, and poverty plague many in Nicaragua.
The poorest nation in Central America, almost 80% of Nicaraguans live on less than $2 a day. One in four Nicaraguans is either starving or suffering from malnutrition. Entire families live on and scrounge for scraps in city dumps.
The people of Nicaragua need to know they are seen, loved, and not forgotten by God. Will you share this life-changing truth with them?
Honduras
From its mountains and Mayan ruins to the Caribbean sea, Honduras offers the history, beauty, and adventure you expect in Central America.
However, its people are struggling.
Home to over eight million people, 36% of the population is under the age of 14. It’s also the 3rd poorest country in the region, with almost 60% either unemployed or underemployed.
Many families struggling to survive send their kids to beg or steal. The youth often join gangs and abuse drugs, such as paint thinner.
Will you share the love of Jesus in a country hungry for hope?
Malawi
Home to at least a dozen distinct people groups, Malawi is known as “The Warm Heart of Africa”. Wide varieties of cuisine and breathtaking views make Malawi a unique experience that you can’t get anywhere else on earth.
However, the people of Malawi are dying.
One in ten adults live with HIV/AIDS, and 70% of all of Malawi’s hospital beds are occupied by people suffering from this sickness.
The epidemic has caused overcrowded orphanages, a lack of workers to harvest food, and an attitude of hopelessness.
The people of Malawi need hope. Will you share it with them?
Zambia
Zambia boasts one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Victoria Falls.
This entirely landlocked nation touches eight countries and is home to 73 tribes who speak 20 different languages.
Since becoming an independent nation after years of British colonial rule, Zambia’s economy has grown, but its people still suffer from poverty, short life expectancy, malnourishment, lack of clean water, and the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Christianity is the official religion in Zambia, but the local church needs support for a solid Biblical foundation to raise up the next generation.
Will you join the work God is doing in Zambia?
Zimbabwe
Formerly the British colony of Rhodesia, Zimbabwe shares the majestic Victoria Falls with Zambia.Yet despite its natural beauty and resources like gold and diamonds, this country struggles for hope.Amnesty International reports that the current government has allowed human rights violations in Zimbabwe to escalate for years. A recent economic meltdown has led thousands to emigrate or be displaced within the country.While 75% of Zimbabweans claim Christianity as their faith, many often mix in ancient, tribal practices and ancestral worship.
Will you share God’s love in a country hungry for hope?
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 1970s, 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?
Malaysia
Located in Southeast Asia, Malaysia has one of the most competitive economies in all of Asia.
Known for the tallest twin towers in the world, the Petronas Towers, it is a rising power in our global economy.
With a large number of immigrants from India, Thailand, China, and Burma, Malaysia is culturally rich, with heavy influences of Hinduism and Buddhism. However, this culturally diverse and rapidly developing nation is mostly Muslim.
With 61% of the population practicing Islam and 19% claiming Buddhism, the majority of Malaysians have never heard the Gospel.
Will you share the love of Jesus in Malaysia?
Indonesia
Composed of over 17,000 islands, Indonesia is the largest island nation on earth.
Though it has the fourth 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 country in the world.
Will you share the unifying love of Jesus in this diverse country?
I cannot wait for the year to come! I appreciate your support and prayers in the months to come and during my journey.
Much love & many blessings,
Rachel
