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.
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 the indigenous poor and urban affluent 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.
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
This Eastern European
country is caught between its past oppression under the Soviet Union and the
desire to be accepted by the West. People in the east tend to be more
nationalistic than those in the west, where Russian is more commonly spoken.
There’s a substantial orphan (social and full)
population and human trafficking’s an issue here, too. Most people claim to
belong to the Ukrainian Orthodox church, which is subdivided into three bodies.
God’s desire is to bring hope, peace, authentic relationship with himself, and
unity to this nation; you’ll find out how exactly you’ll participate in that!
South
Africa
While it’s been several decades since
apartheid has formally ended, there’s still more healing and reconciliation to
take place in South Africa. One of the wealthiest countries on the continent
yet much of the population living 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’s also a place
full of kingdom potential, waiting to be released — by you.
Swaziland
The Kingdom of Swaziland is one of the last
remaining monarchies in Africa. Home to 1.1 million people and breathtaking
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, Swaziland may cease to exist. Young orphans are scattered throughout this
nation in desperate need of attention. For years, Adventures has been committed
to seeing these statistics reversed. Here, you’ll most likely find yourself
involved in a variety of outreaches, including education, orphan care, care
point feedings, and more.
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.
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% are 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 a remnant of believers.
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.
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.
Unfortunately, the government is struggling to stop it. The people of Cambodia
are thirsty for the hope you can bring.
