India
With nearly a sixth of the world’s population within its borders, India is a country bursting with people and culture. Moreover, it has a diverse array of religious beliefs from Hinduism, to Islam, to a blend of folk religions and other faiths. While the country is on the edge of full economic development, it’s still stricken with poverty and privy to the crimes of human trafficking, forced prostitution, religious persecution, and more. So what will you do in India? Change it from the inside out.
Nepal
Home to Mount Everest, the world’s tallest mountain, Nepal literally sits on top of the world. In addition to adventurous experiences you will have here, you will also visit widows and orphans in their times of distress and protect the innocent who are prey to human traffickers. This month of your World Race experience will submerge your in a culture that is desperate for an encounter with the living God.
Indonesia
The 17,508 islands that make up the nation of Indonesia are as diverse as their population, which is the world’s fourth largest. Certain areas of this country, which is home to the world’s largest Muslim population, are completely untouched by outside influences; others carry the exposure, even if only for a moment, of the Gospel story. Be prepared to explore uncharted territories and forgotten areas to further the work of the kingdom of God.
Malaysia
Enter a world entrenched in Islam. A people within the thriving metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysians still live in ignorance of the Good News of Jesus Christ. As you delve into this culture of works-based religion, strong self-discipline, and uncanny faith, you will have the unique opportunity to deliver hope and point the people to their Redeemer.
Australia
From the Sydney Opera House to the aboriginal tribes of the Australian Outback, Australia is as exotic as you imagined it. World Racers will partner with ministries, churches and missionaries who are spreading the hope of Christ to the rich and poor alike. While Australia boasts a more westernized culture, the marginalized, impoverished, destitute and lost still exist and live each moment for the hope of hearing the good news. Here, you may minister to people, much like you would back home.
South Africa
While it’s been several decades since apartheid has formally ended, there is still more healing and reconciliation to take place in South Africa. This country is one of the wealthiest on the continent, and yet, much of the population that lives outside the cities is poor.
Like the rest of sub-Saharan Africa, this country struggles with a high rate of AIDS/HIV. Host to the 2010 World Cup, and breathtaking natural attractions, it is also a place full of kingdom potential, waiting to be released – by you.
Mozambique
This is one of the most beautiful countries in the continent of Africa. Mozambique is also a favorite location of World Racers for a variety of reasons: the people, the beautiful landscape, incredible ministry partnerships, the miracles that this country has seen, and more.
Although the stronghold of poverty grips this nation, Mozambique is seeing signs of redemption and economic recovery. Due to extreme poverty – or perhaps in spite of it – the church is growing, as well.
This month on the Race, you will be teaching, preaching, practicing “true religion” with widows and orphans, and growing in your identity in Christ. You may also probably have one of your most memorable travel “days” here. You’ll find out what we mean soon enough…
Swaziland
The Kingdom of Swaziland is one of the last remaining monarchies in Africa. Home to 1.1 million people and breath-taking scenic views, it’s also where the world’s highest HIV/AIDS infection rate lives (26.1% in adults and over 50% of adults in their 20s). It’s estimated that by 2050, the country of Swaziland will not even exist. Young orphans are scattered throughout this nation that is in desperate need of attention. For years, AIM has been committed to seeing these statistics reversed. Here, you will most likely find yourself involved in a variety of outreaches, including education, orphan care, care point feedings, and more.
Romania
The northern regions of Romania are home to the gypsy community. Though strangers in their homeland and forgotten by society, the gypsies are a strong and vibrant people who embrace the light of Christ in an inspirational way. Here, you will teach English, lead sports camps, live life with the gypsies, and more. It will be an exciting time of learning about a people group you may not have known even existed.
Ukraine
Caught between its past oppression under the USSR communist regime and the desire to be accepted by Western society, Ukraine is a land of many ups and downs. Thankfully, there’s hope, light, and life spreading like wildfire throughout this nation. Is it the kingdom of God coming in power? We think so.
Ireland
Ireland boasts a rich heritage of Christian faith through its centuries-old practices and history, dating back to the time of St. Patrick. Yet, today, the nation seems far from God. Rampant alcoholism and suicide rates reveal a desperate need for hope and dignity. Through sports games, children’s outreach, street evangelism, and the relationships that just happen along the way, the World Race is reintroducing a life-giving faith to this beautiful, historic culture.
