Ecuador
Named after the Spanish word for equator, this country is packed full of natural beauty. 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.
Sarah's notes: This country has been on my list to visit for YEARS. I read about Jim Elliot when I was in middle school and fell in love immediately. Yep, Jim Elliot the martyr, stirred something in my very soul. His story and his relentless pursuit of Christ even in the most dire circumstances captivated me. I I think what I loved most about his testimony was that he wasn't afraid. He wasn't afraid of what could happen to him in the depths of that jungle because He knew
he served a God who was bigger than his fear. Ultimately, he did die trying to reach the Aucas but God used his death to open up the hearts of the very ones who killed him. His quote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose," is still one of my favorites to this day. I hope and pray that I have enough courage to say and mean that as well.
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.
Sarah’s Notes: Peru…..ah. Yep, been on my list for many years as well. I have missionary friends who live in Lima and after hearing some of their amazing stories about their ministry I knew I had to go. I had planned on going to Peru sometime soon actually (before I heard about the World Race). Now look! God is actually taking me there!
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.
Sarah’s Notes: Bolivia holds a special place in my heart for one specific reason. My compassion child, Alison, lives there! After hearing so much about her family and what she likes to do in Bolivia, I am really excited to go there. I am hoping and praying that I also get to meet her while I am there. That would be a lifetime experience I would never forget. This little girl is so sweet and only 7 years old. I love her and her entire family to death! Pray that I get to finally meet her in person while I am in the country!
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.
Sarah’s Notes: See below Ukraine
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 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!
Sarah’s Notes: I have dreamed of going to Romania and the Ukraine ever since I read Michael Palin’s book New Europe (thank you Professor Vowels). Both of these countries were behind the Iron Curtain during the time of the Soviet Union and are some of the poorest countries in Europe even today. The people here are amazing and have so many stories to tell. I am hoping to really connect with people here and be able to bring them hope. There are many, many opportunities to minister in both these countries. I cannot wait to see what God has in store for those months!
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.
Sarah’s Notes: Well, once again I have a friend here and have seen his pictures and heard his stories of what God is up to in this country. South Africa has always been a point of curiosity for me. I don’t know much about this country but I can’t wait to experience it! One thing I WILL NOT DO while there…..get in a cage and go swimming with sharks. Nope. Not going to happen. I did promise my mom that I would climb Mafadi, the highest peak in South Africa if I got a chance.
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.
Sarah’s Notes: I have had so many friends go to Swaziland for mission trips that I cannot help but be excited for this country! Well….that and the fact that there are so many orphans to love on! I’m really excited to spend time with those sweet kiddos.
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.
Sarah’s Notes: Mozambique might be the country I know the least about. It’s not really one that seems to be in the news or a hot spot for mission trips like some of the other African countries are. I have heard that this is one of the countries that racers like the most though. I guess we shall see! I have no expectations 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.
Sarah’s Notes: I am excited for and nervous about Thailand. I know that we often split into different teams in this country and the girls do “bar ministry” where we develop relationships with the prostitutes there. Ya, I’ll admit that it does make me a little nervous. Will I know what to say or how to comfort them? Ultimately, I know God is really going to work in this country like he already has been. I’m also excited for Thailand because some of my Burmese students were born in the Thai refugee camps. One of my boys even asked me to hide him in my suitcase so he could come with me and see his friend again (who still lives in the camp). I had tears in my eyes after that!
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.
Sarah’s Notes: I think this country worries me the most because it’s becoming more and more hostile to Christianity (not that other countries don’t have the same problem). But at the same time, those are sometimes the places where God works in the most amazing ways.
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.
Sarah’s Notes: So I never thought I would have a chance to see one of the seven wonders of the world. Ya, that could be really cool! I’m excited about Cambodia because I’ve done a lot of research on Pol Pot and the mass murder he committed while in control. The people have to be hurting even still. That is not something easily forgotten. I’m ready to love on the people there and bring them the hope of Jesus Christ!
Overall, I am so excited about each and every one of the countries on my route. I know God put this opportunity in my path for a very specific reason and I cannot wait to start the journey!
