We have just received this information about our mission trip! I want to keep you all informed as it all starts to unravel for us. Thanks for journeying with me/us!
Over 3,000,000 lives were changed in an instant.
500,000 now live in tent cities all across the nation.
150,000 – 200,000 are estimated to be dead. 9,000 United Nations Peacekeepers are keeping the country calm. 1,400 U.S. Military personal are helping rescue victims.
And 6 World Race Alumni are heading there to make a kingdom impact.
In a country gripped with poverty, unclean water, and a dwindling lack of resources even before the earthquake, Haiti is a nation that has been crippled and needs the Church to help. The World Race and AIM has a history of responding well to natural disasters (i.e. Mozambique, Haiti, Peru, Katrina), which is why it's heading back to Haiti soon.
This coming August, the World Race July 2010(that's us!!!) trip is headed to Haiti to assist in rebuilding efforts. Not only will the focus be on individual recovery, but also on establishing a restoration of the country beginning with pocket communities. The first two months will be spent in the Dominican Republic and Haiti assisting earthquake victims.* The bottom line is that people need shelter, water, food, comfort and care, and we're available to be conduits of God's provision in Haiti for this.
We have also been told that a team will be heading down in June to begin preparations for our arrival!
As you think and pray for Haiti and everyone down there, victims, rescue teams, etc. Could you also say a prayer for our friend Lee Ann who is leaving tomorrow for Haiti and her mission there.
Posted in General Posts by Cinthia Ramirez Bunford on 1/18/2010
Thank YOU for signing up to receive my blog updates!
If you're one of the lucky ones who signed up for my updates as well as Jonathan's, you might notice that they have been very similar or have looked identical. This will not always be the case. Especially
when
we're out on the field, we'll be making updates with our
own perspectives on what we are doing - and we might even be serving in
different ways! So please consider staying updated on both of our blogs
:)
Also if you haven't signed up for Jonathan's updates, please consider doing so by following this link.
As a way of saying THANK YOU we'll fill you in on more details of where we're going and what we'll be doing.
Remember that things might change, though we "know" 6 countries now, something could happen and change the plans.
We've organized the countries in the order
we learnt of them, not in the order we'll be traveling, because we
don't know the order yet.
Dominican Republic
Previous teams have gone into
all corners of this beautiful country to build relationships, plant
churches, love orphans and widows and discovered all that God
has in store for the people of the D.R. We will be following in their footsteps.
-
We were blessed with a trip to the DR for our Honeymoon, I can't wait
to go back 3 years later and serve the beautiful people of the
Dominican!
Turkey
Located in central/eastern Europe, Turkey is a country saturated with
rich history and culture diversity. During our experience here we will
build relationships, plant churches, encourage the body, and go as the
Lord leads. In a place with such historical influence, it's a great
place to release the kingdom of God!
One
of our friends in Korea previously taught in Turkey and LOVED it, he
gave us lots of info on Turkey and we're pumped to get there!
Romania
The northern regions of Romania are home to the gypsy people. 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 we'll teach English, lead sports camps, live
life with the gypsies, and more.
I think we might know a thing or two about teaching English. I can't wait to learn from the gypsy people!
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.
Please pray that we can show God's LOVE to these people who need it greatly!
Mozambique
Enter a world of lions, elephants and monkeys, and welcome to Africa.
Potentially the most fruitful of mission fields, northern Mozambique is
seeing sweeping revival in the form of mass conversions, miracles, and
churches planted on a daily basis. Our teams will be a part of breaking
the hold of fear on the people bound by witch doctors and animism.
I'm always down to witness a miracle! I want to see how God is working in this land :)
And our newest country...
Haiti
Crossing the border from the Dominican Republic to Haiti is like
entering another world. Language changes from Spanish to French to
Creole, and landscape changes from lush forests to barren wastelands.
The island of Hispanola has been divided against itself in decades of
animosity between the Haitian and Dominican people. The 2008 hurricanes
ravaged across the island, leaving the northern portion of Haiti
devastated and in much need of tangible help and spiritual
encouragement. We will go to help rebuild physically and spiritually, as we
explain the hope that Christ brings in the face of such tragedy.
The recent earthquake in Haiti has left the country in ruins. Current
teams are crossing the boarder between the Dominican Republic and Haiti
to bring supplies and assistance wherever they can. We learnt that we
would be traveling to Haiti before the earthquake and now they need our
help more than ever.
Please
pray for everyone who has been affected by this recent tragedy and ask
the Lord to comfort them. Also remember to pray for the relief teams
going into Haiti, as they also have families they are leaving behind
and a tough job ahead of them - pray for a continued renewal strength!
As of this time we are still waiting to learn of the other 5 countries,
though we are pretty certain that 2 months will be "Pioneers" or "ATLs":
Pioneer / ATL (probably in Africa & Asia)
Twice during our World Race experience, our team will take a month to
ATL (ask the Lord) for a new mission field. He may lead us someplace in
the middle of a buzzing city or somewhere that can't even be found on a
map. Either way, it's a time of listening to the Lord's voice and
following him with true abandon.
How
exciting is that?! Please begin praying with us for the countries God
has in mind for us, and pray that we may LISTEN to His voice and not
our desired areas.
That leaves us with ONLY 3 more countries to learn of!
Ireland
Ireland boasts a heritage of Christianity through Catholicism. Yet the
lifeless display of faith reveals that this nation is farther from God
than ever. Rampant alcoholism and suicide rates reveal a desperate need
for hope. Through sports, children's outreach, street evangelism, pub
ministry, and the relationships that just happen along the way, the
World Race reintrodues a life-giving faith to this beautiful, historic
culture.
Ukraine
Caught between its past oppression under the USSR communist regime and
the desire to be accepted by Western society, Ukraine is a land of many
ups and downs. Thankfully, there's hope, light, and life spreading like
wildfire throughout this nation. Is it the kingdom of God coming in
power? We think so.
Romania
The northern regions of Romania are home to the gypsy people. 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'll teach English, lead sports camps, live
life with the gypsies, and more.
Israel
The Holy Land attracts Jews, Arabs and Christians alike to be a part of
a location so rich in our combined religious roots. Serve in this new
World Race location while walking the paths trod by Christ himself.
Egypt
Egypt is a country rich in historical significance. The Egyptian people
are no less rich in their cultural goings-on today. A country shaped by
the past and under religious bondage, the people of Egypt are hungry to
hear of the freedom brought through Christ. While pyramids and palaces
give the land a romanticized veneer, under the surface lie hearts in
need of relationship and hope.
Kenya
Who hasn't heard of Kenya in their lifetime? The Kenyan people are
colorful, musical, artistic and hungry for the love of Christ. The
Masai bush, the Nairobi metropolis, the Kiberra slums...comprise a
country diverse yet unified in history. 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, the World Race produces lasting fruit and lasting
ministries to carry on even after we leave.
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 incredible region of the world.
Pioneer Africa
Twice during your World Race experience, your team will take a month to
ATL (ask the Lord) for a new mission field. He may lead you someplace
in the middle of a buzzing city or somewhere that can't even be found
on a map. Either way, it's a time of listening to the Lord's voice and
following him with true abandon. Uncover more of your inheritance...
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.
Pioneer Asia
Ask God where to go and do what He tells you. It'll be one of the most
adventurous and memorable months of ministry that you'll have on the
Race. Back to Thailand or Cambodia, or maybe to Vietnam, China or
Malaysia... God could lead you anywhere to unveil His kingdom. Are you
willing to abandon your last month on the Race to Him?
Want to know more about the World Race? CONTACT US!
Interested in going on the World Race? APPLY HERE!
Posted in General Posts by Cinthia Ramirez Bunford on 12/23/2009
We've received new information regarding our route! How
exciting is that?! It's like an early Christmas present for sure!
The countries that have been confirmed* are the following:
Dominican Republic
Turkey
Cambodia
Romania
We have yet to find out the remaining 7 countries....but we hear
there are usually two areas of Ask The Lord (ATL) where we pray for God to
direct us where to serve.
Please be praying with us for the people in these countries
and for the projects we will be joining there.
Mini Financial Update:
In our combined account Jon and I have $5,928.30!!! PRAISE
GOD!
That means we still need $11,071.70 to be able to go to
Training Camp in May.
Look out for support raising events coming up in early 2010!
Please continue praying with us for more people to partner
with us in this adventure that God has called us on.
* Although these countries have been confirmed, there is still
a possibility to that they might change when we are in the field. This can
happen for a variety of reasons, such as: a mayor risk in the area we were
meant to serve, or a greater need in another country.
Posted in General Posts by Cinthia Ramirez Bunford on 10/22/2009
Our first support-raising event is finished! We did the Hi Seoul run a couple of weeks ago. We both ran through Seoul, which brought "sight-seeing" to a different level. I loved running through a virtually lonely Seoul.
Jonathan ran a half marathon- his second! I am so proud of him ☺ I ran a 10k – my first!
We were both thrilled with all the support we got for this run. We can't thank all our supporters enough.
That brings our support to: 1,634.00 out of the $26,000! Still a small amount but we're slowly getting there!
Prayfully consider supporting us for this amazing opportunity to serve God
Posted in General Posts by Cinthia Ramirez Bunford on 9/12/2009
UPDATE!
A couple of months ago Jon stumbled upon our route for the July 2010 World Race and we were very excited to know the countries we would be serving in....This week, however, Jon again stumbled on another surprise:
Our route is now secret!!! The route we thought we were taking has now been altered and changed to June 2010. Although we have the option of switching to the June race, we've talked about it and feel that we're called to go on the secret July 2010 route!
This year I've been trying to grow in different areas and especially in ones that I've been uncomfortable with in the past. I love having schedules, I feel like they give me a little bit of control in my life. Even if I don't make them myself, I love knowing what will come next. Living in Korea has been challenging in this respect, not only in our everyday life but also in our schools as well. It seems like God is nudging me towards more growth in this area. I'm excited to see where He'll take us and trusting in Him and HIS ways more and more!!
Posted in General Posts by Cinthia Ramirez Bunford on 8/16/2009
Last week I watched one of my favourite movies - Motorcycle Diaries. God used this movie to stir up a greater passion in my heart to go on this trip. Every time I watch this movie I want to jump on a plane, get a motorcycle and tour South America - maybe one day I will, but for now God is guiding me to go on THIS World Race!
It's about time Jonathan and I begin our support raising!! I can't believe we are already less than a year away! :)
We will be doing small support raising activities from now leading up to the race. Our first activity will take place in Korea, on October 11. Jonathan will be running his second half marathon (21.1ks) and I will run my first 10K! You can get in the action by supporting us! For every $10 of your support you will get one chance to estimate one of our race times (hour:minutes:seconds). The people who are closest to our individual end times will receive a Korean care package in the mail!!!
To help spread the word, please forward this to anyone who might be interested. With your help, God will do amazing things through our lives!
We were asked to write a blog about how we felt before leaving on this mission trip. Here is what I'm expecting although our trip is a year away at the moment.
I'm expecting to see God working in ways I can't even imagine right now.
I'm expecting to see God's people being blessed in unbelievable ways.
To be changed and challenged along the way.
To do some tough work and work that only God can see me through.
I'm expecting to be uncomfortable, to be taken completely out of my comfort zone in all possible ways.
Like sleeping on the floor for months.
Giving up my luxury items, such as my computer and my regular Vanilla Latte.
I can't wait to meet everyone on our team, to grow and challenge each other.
Please pray that, because we are a year away, we are able to manage our time wisely and God continues to prepare us for our year away. Pray that God touches the hearts of those who are thinking of joining our team, and begins preparing them as well.
Pray that in all ways God may be glorified by our team.
Posted in General Posts by Cinthia Ramirez Bunford on 5/12/2009
We were asked to write a blog about how we were called to this mission trip. Here is my story...
There is no real defining moment as to when I realized I was being called to the Mission field. Instead, for a number of years I have felt God tugging at my heart calling me to serve him in other areas and nations.
Beginning in High School, and being from Guatemala, I felt a great pull towards studying more about developing nations. Even though I was born in Central America, I did not know much about the state of the nation or our neighboring countries.
During my studies I realized that no institution is going to change the world – only God can. The more I heard about Mission trips going out every summer, the more I wanted to go. For different reasons, I wasn't able to join any of them.
Then after our final year of University, Jon had the chance to go on a Mission trip to Cambodia. It was the hardest 3 weeks, because he wasn't around, and because he got the chance to go, while I was still waiting for my time.
Seeing him come back from that trip, made me realized even more that God had been placing that call in my heart and it was time to start thinking about going on a mission trip again.
After being in South Korea for a year, and decided to come back for a second year, Jon and I heard God calling us stronger to go on a mission. We talked about traveling around South East Asia by ourselves and meeting up with different organizations throughout our time. However, we then heard about The World Race and we were ecstatic to know that there was a trip that was exactly what we were looking for.
One of the verses that speaks out the most about going on a Mission trip is:
Romans 10:13-15
"Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news
