As I get closer the leaving on this crazy thing called the World Race I have found that there is a trend in the questions that I have been getting. So for those of you that I haven't had a chance to talk with for very long I figured I would answer a couple of FAQ. Now this doesn't mean I do not want to talk to you personally, if you would like to talk about anything from what I'm doing to how IM going to handle not having a fashion sense for a year just let me know. 🙂
What is the World Race? The World Race, a ministry of Adventures in Missions, is an 11-month Christian mission trip to 11 different countries around the world, and it’s not your typical missions experience. It’s a way for young adults to abandon a traditional life-style in exchange for an experience bigger than themselves. Through adventure, ministry, community, and self-discovery, World Racers gain hearts that move their hands to action. And the best part of the World Race is that it’s merely the beginning of a lifelong adventure. Through all the adventure, ministry, community living, and discipleship that take place during the 11 months, you’ll come to understand your true identity as a son or daughter of the living God. You’ll begin to understand your role in the kingdom of God and how to play a part in bringing real change to this world. The World Race is more than a mission trip; it’s a year of self-discovery and authentic, spiritual empowerment.
Who do you work with in each country? We partner with hundreds of local churches, ministries, and other Christian non-governmental organizations to enable long-term missionaries to extend their reach and deepen their impact.
So is this like the amazing race, are you going to be on TV? Squads used to “race” to be the first to arrive at each new country. We no longer have these competitions, and no I will not be on television although I am sure there will be many "interesting" videos on youtube/vimeo
Is the World Race safe? The bottom line is that the world is a dangerous place. Racers have been held up at gunpoint and have gotten malaria and typhoid. We are aware of the dangers inherent in travel and well prepared for them, but we are cautious that avoiding danger would not preoccupy us from our mission, to bring His kingdom. The World Race staff continues to stay educated and informed of safety concerns and issues around the world by routinely reviewing “watch lists”. They compile regular feedback from their international contacts and have, on occasion, changed itineraries and race routes based on information from these sources. Changes are made with safety as their first priority even when these decisions are unpopular. You have signed up for adventure, so the staff cannot stop you from pushing your personal limits of safety. In the past, Racers have hopped on the back of motorcycles in busy cities, bungee jumped from high cliffs in third world countries, and engaged in other activities that may make us uneasy, but even in light of these extreme activities, we maintain a minimum level of social security. For example, there is always a mandate for Racers to travel together in groups. At the end of the day some risk is a normal part of the adventure and discipleship process.
Does the World Race have much impact since you’re only in each place for a month? The World Race creates long-term relationships with local ministries and churches in each place they serve. Our goal is to help locals serve more people with greater effectiveness. Every interaction with a World Racer can open a door that can work in tandem with our local ministry contacts. We are there to support those serving full time and lift them up for a month.
What are some examples of some ministries you’ll be a part of? As part of the WR I will be exposed to various types of ministry, some of the ministry we will be doing is something I am used to here such as childrens ministry and merely talking to people about Jesus. However in every country we will be doing something different and will not know exactly what we are doing until we meet out point of contact for each country. What I do know is that no matter what we are doing the most important aspect is that we will be Jesus to every person that we come in contact with.
What age do you have to be to go on the World Race? The World Race is for people ages 21 through 35. If you can turn 21 at some point on the Race, you are eligible and can apply.
When was the World Race started? It was started in 2006.
How many people has the World Race sent out? As of 2011, the World Race has sent over a thousand people to the nations.
So how much does this thing Cost? Sticker price of the World Race is $15,500 but that does not include the gear, shots, insurance, or personal expenses while on the race. Yes this number is staggering at first glance. But this cost covers all training, transportation, housing, food, and basically life for an entire year.
How Can I Help? Well Im glad you asked! First off would be to pray, this 11 months will be some of the most challenging experiences of my life and I would appreciate all the prayer and support I can get. Second off if you have the capability to support me in any way even a dollar will help. If you are interested in partnering with me financially either click the Support Link on the left side of this page or send me an email at [email protected] for other options.
