The World Race - Cinthia Bunford

Support-Raising Dinner March 20th!

Tue, 9 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In case you haven't heard yet...we are having a SUPPORT-RAISING DINNER in Mississauga!
Come join us for a great dinner, info about our mission trip and more!

Go here to learn a little bit more about the World Race and register online for the dinner!

Our Route has been REVEALED!!!!!

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wonderful supporters,

I have FANTASTIC news. I just finished reading an email from one of the AIM admins and they have decided to reveal the ENTIRE route now - instead of waiting until May! We are STOKED - and you, our mission partners, deserve to know the news as we get them.

* As always we plan, but God has the final word so even though these are the countries we are said to be serving in next year, things could always change *

In case you haven't heard, we are having a support-raising dinner on March 20th in Mississauga. We would LOVE to have you there, message me if you would like a ticket and invite your friends!

Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is an island nation in the middle of the Caribbean. With a population around nine million, it's a country with more affluence than its neighboring country, Haiti. After the earthquake on January 12 in Haiti, the D.R. quickly became home to thousands of refugees searching for food, shelter, and comfort. This month, you'll serve at orphanages, refugee camps, and more.

Haiti
Haiti was hit with a life-altering earthquake on January 12, 2010. While the nation was left in shambles, it's far from struck down and destroyed. Haiti is experiencing a spiritual revival right now. Communities are turning to pastors for leadership and the Church is becoming the driving force behind Haiti's rebirth. This month you'll help with relief efforts, establish connections, teach, provide for immediate needs, and more. Come prepared to work - come ready to be rocked...

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.

Turkey
A primarily Muslim nation, the country of Turkey is also the least evangelized nation on earth. One of the birthplaces of the Church, it is now a nation closed to the Gospel and home of persecuted Christians. This month, you're going to take some risks in sharing your faith. And while we would love to share with you what you will be doing, we can't for safety reasons. Just know - you're not going to forget this experience.

Mozambique
This is one of the most beautiful countries in the continent of Africa. This is a favorite location of the World Race for a variety of reasons (the people, beautiful landscape, ministry partnerships, and more). Although the stronghold of poverty grips this nation, Mozambique is seeing signs of redemption and economic recovery. Due to this extreme poverty - or perhaps in spite of it - the church is growing, as well. This month on the Race, you will be teaching, preaching, practicing "true religion" with widows and orphans, and more. You may also probably have one of your most memorable travel "days" here. You'll find out what we mean soon enough.

Malawi

Known as "the warm heart of Africa," Malawi is definitely a place that you visit to ignite yourself with the fire of God. This country has a beautiful landscape and an even more beautiful culture and population.

This month, you'll be helping plant churches, raising up leaders, and infecting the people with the love of God. Chances are you won't want to leave.

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.

China
Host of the 2008 Summer Olympics and home to 1.3 billion people, China is known for its grandness, not just in land mass and population. While the Han Chinese comprise the largest people group, there are over fifty minority groups, including the Uighurs, a people without a country. Due to the legacy of Mao's Cultural Revolution, Communism is not just a political system, it is almost the state religion. Speaking of which, depending on where you are, you may meet Buddhists, Muslims, and Taoists; there are even churches - government approved and regulated. The exact size of the underground church is unknown (hence the name), but what it is known is that it is large and still growing, thriving even in the midst of persecution. While there, you'll have to pay homage to the Great Wall, and bring light and hope to a people in darkness and depression. How you'll do that exactly - you'll find out once you get there. ;)

Philippines
This Asian island nation, once a Spanish colony and an American protectorate, is a country in tension, trying to cross the threshold between the third and first world. It offers a variety of landscapes - beaches, mountains, volcanic lakes - and languages, with Tagalog as the national tongue. The Catholic Church is a substantial piece of the religious pie, however, Islam is growing in the island of Mindinao. The Filipino people and culture love music and dance and community. While there, you may find yourself living with and giving hope to the destitute, caring for orphans, and challenging the growing number of Christ-followers to rise up.

*Race route subject to change*

Haiti in August!!!!!! +

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

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.

Route in the Making

Mon, 18 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

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!

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!

If any of these countries call to you directly, please consider supporting us financially.

Remember we need to raise $28,000 and we have a LONG way to go!

Anyone want to go in June?

Fri, 8 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

We're still going in July but if you know of anyone that would be interested in going in June, please forward this to them!

June 2010 World Race Route

Interested in joining the World Race? APPLY HERE!

>> watch the World Race promotional video <<

**TRAINING CAMP DATES: May 22 - 30, 2010 **

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.

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 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!

**TRAINING CAMP DATES: May 22 - 30, 2010**

*Race route subject to change*

ROUTE UPDATE!

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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.

Our first Support Raising!

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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

around the world.

Our Route!! Or is it? => IT'S NOT!! :)

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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!!

Support Raising Begins!

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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!

Our half marathon/10K website: http://thenewbunfords.net16.net/fundraiser1.html

Our regular blog, with links to our pictures :) http://www.cinandjonadventures.blogspot.com/

Jonathan's World Race blog: http://jonathanbunford.theworldrace.org/

Expectations of My Mission Trip

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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.

How I was called to the Mission Field

Tue, 12 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

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