As I'm working on fundraising, a lot of people have been asking me, "So, what exactly are you going to be doing?" I've heard stories from past world racers, and read blogs from teams out on their races, but hadn't really been able to answer that question. So, I called up Shawndell to ask her what I could expect/what I could tell people. Her answer was right along the lines of what I had already been telling people: I don't know.
I can't know exactly what I will be doing because we have several teams on the squad with several ministries that I may be a part of.So, she suggested that I research and find out what past teams have done, because anything they've done is a possibility for me. So, here the list I've compiled. I hope this helps!
India
India struggles with poverty and crimes of human trafficking, forced prostitution, and religious persecution. Past teams have worked with local churches to encourage believers. Past teams have also worked in the slums to bring hope and truth to those that society deems "untouchable".
Nepal
Past teams have visited widows and orphans in their times of distress and protected the innocent who were prey to human traffickers.
Thailand
Approximately 600,000 people live with HIV/AIDS in Thailand and nearly two million people are forced into prostitution. Thailand is one of the most popular places for sex tourism. Past teams have done street ministry among the prostitutes in red light districts. Teams have also been in the countryside serving with youth, caring for orphans, and encouraging believers.
Cambodia
Cambodia is a source and destination of human trafficking. Past teams have worked with the victims of human trafficking and brought hope to the people.
Vietnam
Past teams have worked with the deaf community, the blind, orphanages, taught English, had prayer walks (especially around the temples), lots of intercession, youth group Bible studies, worked with the underground church, persecuted Christians, house Bible studies, and worked with the addicts.
Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya
Past teams have been teaching, evangelism and door to door, street witnessing, orphan care, and community development
Latvia
Brand new to the World Race. All I could find out was what was listed on the website: As the country recovers economically, you could be an agent of spiritual revival and show the people what they've been missing out on.
Estonia/Lithuania
Brand new to the World Race. All I could find out was what was listed on the website: With the highest suicide rate in the world and the highest homicide rate in the EU, this nation needs you revive the people back to life with the love of Christ.
So, to answer the question "What am I going to be doing?", I have to say that I have no idea, but God does, and he's making a way right now so that our squad can move in the lives and hearts of the precious people in these countries.
