January 2010 World Race Route
“Jesus came to them and said: I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth! Go to the people of ALL nations and make them my disciples. Baptize them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teach them to do everything I have told you. I will be with you always, even until the end of the world. “ – Matthew 28:18-20
Here’s a look at the adventure that awaits me…..
Thailand
Even though the official law states that prostitution is illegal, it is estimated that nearly 2 million women and men engage in this practice daily thus creating the lucrative sex industry of Southeast Asia. In addition to reaching out to the rural communities of Thailand, we go to the streets, into the darkest of spiritual environments to share what is most needed: hope. By helping women learn practical vocational skills and providing an alternative form of income, the face of Thailand’s premiere sex industry is being changed one life at a time.
Vietnam
Leaving the Caribbean, the team will cross the Pacific and land in a whole new world. The country of Vietnam has been under communist rule for decades and the oppression has taken its toll through seasons of warfare and rebuilding. The government is adamantly against religious freedom and as the country suffers in Buddhist bondage, the light of the Christian remnant shines as a candle in the darkness.
Cambodia
Fifty years ago, Cambodia saw one of the most devastating genocides in history. The Khmer Rouge slaughtered nearly two million people – 1/3 of the country’s population at the time. In 24 hours cities were emptied, left to be ghost towns. The nation has been in constant upheaval until recently. The strength and resiliency of the Cambodian people is inspiring. Be a part of holding orphans, born into a new era; meeting felt needs in some of the worst slums in the world; and church planting with an adolescent generation on the verge of religious revolution.
New Zealand
Even in the midst of a paralyzing atheistic culture, the Maori people are experiencing revival like never before. Ministries and outreaches from those burdened for this island nation are contributing to the reclaiming of this people group for the cause of Christ. We go to speak the truth and reap a harvest to the glory of God.
Australia
From the Sydney Opera House to the Aboriginal Tribes of the Australian Outback, World Race will seek to 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.
Kenya
The Masai bush, the Nairobi metropolis, the Kiberra slums…comprise a country diverse yet unified in history. The Kenyan people are colorful, musical, artistic and hungry for the love of Christ. As a new era dawns in Kenya, so does the Gospel of truth and faith. By meeting felt needs in the bush and the city, we hope to leave lasting fruit and lasting ministries to carry on beyond us.
Uganda
From the Ugandan islands to the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, the African people of these nations share a common bond. Through the wild lands, home to Africa’s “Big Five” animals coexist people, reached and unreached with the Gospel of Christ. Through evangelism, church planting and discipleship, we will be a part of a movement to further the kingdom of God in this precious region of the world.
PIONEER AFRICA
During your World Race, your team will take a month to “Ask the Lord” for a new mission field. He may lead you to a location developing, growing and booming or He may lead you to a land untouched by the World Race or even Christianity as a whole. It will be a time to listen to the voice of the Lord and, with true abandon, follow Him into the wild blue yonder.
Romania
The northern regions of Romania are home to the gypsy people of Romania. Strangers in their homeland, they are segregated, ostracized and forgotten. Yet, they are a strong, proud and vibrant people who are beginning to embrace the light of Christ in a whole new way. Teaching English, leading sports camps, and planting churches are but a few of the tasks set before us as we enter this area of the world.
The developing country of the Ukraine stands caught between its past oppression under the U.S.S.R. communist regime and the desire to be accepted into the Western world. The forgotten and marginalized of this area are quick to be found if one looks close enough. Come be a part of a revolution, taking back a region from the bondage of Islam and other folk religions. It’s a new day for the countries of Eastern Europe!
PIONEER EASTERN EUROPE
Twice during your World Race, your team will take a month to “Ask the Lord” for a new mission field. He may lead you to a location developing, growing and booming or He may lead you to a land untouched by the World Race or even Christianity as a whole. It will be a time to listen to the voice of the Lord and, with true abandon, follow Him into the wild blue yonder.