AUGUST 2018 * ROUTE #1
Through much much much much prayer, I have finally decided on route #1. I tend to be indecisive and this was a very hard decision picking which route I would go on. This is where I will be spending 11 months of my life!
Here are the countries Ill be going to and a little information about each!!!!!
MONTH #1: UKRAINE
Formerly the second largest economy in the Soviet union, Ukraine now struggles with poverty. The orphan population is growing and human trafficking is as well. With the Caucasus mountains, its crumbling castles, and the Black Sea, it’s a popular destination for European tourists. It’s estimated that 75% of the population believes in God, but only 37% attend any kind of service regularly. Caught between the East and the West, the past and the future, the people of Ukraine need to know God sees and loves them. Will you go?
MONTH #2: ROMANIA
The lore of Dracula brings thousands to explore the history and beauty of Romania, from its castles to the idyllic countryside dotted with horse drawn buggies and endless herds of sheep. Formerly part of the Soviet Union, Romania is quickly rising out of the impoverished state leftover from that era. Still, economic growth is an impossible dream for many orphans and widows, who struggle to for food and hope for the future. Will you share the good news of being remembered and loved by God with those who feel forgotten and alone?
MONTH #3: BULGARIA
Formerly part of the Eastern Bloc, Bulgaria remained under socialism until 1990. Today this democratic nation is part of the European Union. The sixth country to put an astronaut in space, Bulgaria has the second highest amount of Mensa members in the world. It is also a primary source, transit, and destination point for human trafficking in Eastern Europe. The people of Bulgaria are some of the most intelligent in the world. They hunger for more, yet many do not realize everything they seek can be found in Jesus Christ. Will you share the love of Jesus in Bulgaria?
MONTH #4: 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. You’ll find yourself teaching English or working in cafes forming relationships and friendships with the locals, ultimately to share the love of the Father.
MONTH #5: 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 1970’s, 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?
MONTH #6: 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?
MONTH #7: MYANMAR
In a struggle for independence, first from Britain, then from its own government, Burmese political groups have fought an ongoing war for over 60 years, full of rebellions and insurgencies. Commonly called Burma, but officially now the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the political unrest has led to nearly 200,000 refugees in Myanmar, many fleeing to neighboring countries like Thailand. When the cyclone hit in 2008, it not only left $10 billion in damages in its wake, it also resulted in nearly 140,000 people losing their lives. Natural disasters, a sinking economy, and corrupt government have led to despair and poverty for many Burmese people. Bring hope to refugees, the lost, and the broken, in a country fighting to embrace tradition while moving away from the old regime.
MONTH #8: COLOMBIA
From the Andes Mountains to the Caribbean coastline and the Amazon rainforest, Colombia is one of the most ecologically diverse countries in the world. It is also home to unreached tribes, a large student population rapidly rejecting the Gospel, and thousands of children living on the streets. Colombia sits at the crossroads of Central and South America, making its culture almost as diverse as its natural resources. The nation is also heavily influenced by Native American, Latin, European, African, Middle Eastern, and American cultures. Will you share universal truth of God’s love with the people of Colombia?
MONTH #9: ECUADOR
Named after the Spanish word for “Equator”, Ecuador is full of natural beauty. From the Amazon River to Andean glacial volcanoes, this country—and its people—are sure to enthrall you. Quito, is the highest capital city in the world, at over 9,300 feet above sea level. Its views are breathtaking. Although prosperous on the whole, certain regions of Ecuador continue to struggle. With more than half of the population at or below the poverty line, Ecuador is a country waiting for God’s Kingdom to come. Will you share the truth of His Kingdom with people looking for hope?
MONTH #10: PERU
From the breathtaking Andes mountains and vast coastal deserts to the lush, tropical rainforests of the Amazon Jungle, Peru is one of the most biodiverse countries on Earth. The birthplace of several proud, ancient civilizations, present day Peru is home to multiple indigenous groups who blend into a unique and beautiful culture. Sadly, the people of Peru struggle with extreme poverty and class inequality. Government corruption hinders economic development, and many people face problems like teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, and crime. Will you share God’s love with people hungry for hope?
MONTH #11: BOLIVIA
Although the poorest country in South America, Bolivia is the wealthiest in terms of natural resources. From the Andes Mountains to the Amazon Basin, Bolivia is full of natural beauty. However, the truth wealth of Bolivia is its people. The most indigenous country in South America, over 60% of the population traces their heritage back to one of over 30 different ethnic groups. Ancient traditions and social customs heavily influence the local culture. Will you share your life-changing faith in Bolivia?
I am super excited for this route. It is a little bittersweet not being able to go in January with the squad that I had been talking to on facebook but I have been talking to this new August route and they seem very awesome as well.
I have taken a break from fundraising during the holidays but still pray that the money will be raised and pray for strength for myself, and my team, that we get in shape for training camp and that we dont let Satan discourage us.
