The
route has been posted! After checking
compulsively for the past three weeks I finally know where I’ll be going
(potentially, as it says everywhere,
route is subject to change). So directly
from The World Race website here are the countries, brief descriptions and
pictures:
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, Equador 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. You’ll help this region break out of sterile
orthodoxy and bring hope of a better future just by showing up.
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
With
nearly two million people estimated to be stuck inside of prostitution in
Thailand, it has become one of the most popular places for sex tourism. Change
lives in the city and rock worlds in the countryside. Thailand’s sure to
capture your heart.
Cambodia
28
years ago, Cambodia experienced one of the most gruesome genocides known to man
where over one third of the country’s population was slaughtered. Still in
recovery from their past, the people of Cambodia are thirsty for hope.
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.
I can’t even begin to talk about how excited I am about this route! Three things bring joy to my heart:
- I did a prayer ministry trip to Eastern Europe the summer before with Youth In Mission and it was the single most growing experience in my life. I have missed it so much and have longed to go back for so long and now is my chance!
- I have a friend from ENC who is currently serving in Peru and I know the chances of us being in the same area of Peru are slim to none but it will be comforting to know that she has already been there serving for over a year by the time I get there! You can check out her blog here to see what she’s doing!
- I am really going to experience so many completely different cultures and ministries–all of a sudden is really overwhelming and awesome all at the same time!
