Peru
The cradle of Inca civilization (think: Macchu
Picchu) and one of the “Andean states”, Peru is full of epic wonder; yet
she is barely acquainted with her Creator. Though many natives still
practice traditional religions, God is up to something in this country.
The Peruvian church thirsts for truth and authentic spiritual
breakthrough. Its political past has been riddled with guerilla violence
and corrupt leadership, from which both the indigenous poor and urban
affluent alike are recovering. Whether you rough it in the jungle or
live in the city; you won’t forget Peru.
Bolivia
Bolivia is one of the most beautiful places in
the world. It’s also one of the most indigenous countries in South
America; the current president is the first indigenous people group
member in office. And with all of that variety comes a lot of
opportunity. Bolivia is in need of orphan ministry, evangelistic
outreach, church plants, and more. You might find yourself working in
the heart of the rainforest or on the streets of a city market.
Regardless, be prepared for a fantastic experience.
Ecuador
Named after the Spanish word for equator, this
country is packed full of natural beauty. From the Amazon river to
glaciers atop Andes volcanoes, this country is sure to enthrall you, and
it’s people too. As diverse as it’s landscapes, the indigenous and
Incan influences give this country a unique culture. Although the
country is about 95% Catholic, there are still indigenous shamanistic
practices that are integrated in their faith. With more than half of
the population sitting at or below the poverty line, Ecuador is a
country waiting for God’s Kingdom to come.
Eastern Europe
Much of this region was under some communist regime
for much of the latter half of the last century. Some countries are
doing better than others in catching up; some of them are also sources,
transit points and destinations of human trafficking. You may live life
with the Romani (or Roma), commonly referred to as Gypsy, a people group
without a land of their own and long shunned by society. Through
reaching out to orphans, teaching English, running sports camps, you’ll
shepherd a generation caught between a Soviet past and the post-modern
European present.
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
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, incredible 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 be teach, preach, 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.
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.
Thailand
According to the CIA, the kingdom of Thailand,
known as Siam until 1939, is the only country in the region not
colonized by Europe. Their 2000 census showed that 94.6% of the
population is Buddhist, 4.6% are Muslim and 0.7% is Christian.
Approximately 600,000 people live with HIV/AIDS in Thailand. With
nearly two million people estimated to be forced into prostitution, it
has become one of the most popular places for sex tourism. Change lives
in the city where you, like Jesus, might befriend prostitutes or in the
countryside, where you may serve youth, care for orphans and encourage
believers.
Cambodia
Cambodia houses one of the Seven Wonders of the
World, Angkor Wat, a Hindu temple and monastery built during the Khmer
empire in the 12th century. It later became a Buddhist complex a
century later, and today, just over 96% of Cambodia is Buddhist. Almost
30 years ago, 1.5 million Cambodians died at the hands of Pol Pot and
the Khmer Rouge regime. Today, Cambodia is a source, transit point and
destination of human trafficking and the government is struggling to
stop it. The people of Cambodia are thirsty for the hope you can bring.
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. Here you’ll be fed with pho, delicious beef noodle
soup, and in turn feed believers and pray God’s light and presence
everywhere you go.
