MISSIONARY MANUAL. If you have any questions please Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 1

Transcription

1 AND JESUS SAID TO THEM, "FOLLOW ME, AND I WILL MAKE YOU BECOME FISHERS OF MEN." IMMEDIATELY THEY LEFT THEIR NETS AND FOLLOWED HIM. MARK 1:17-18 If you have any questions please phyllisw@amazonoutreach.org Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 1

2 AND JESUS CAME UP AND SPOKE TO THEM, SAYING, "ALL AUTHORITY HAS BEEN GIVEN TO ME IN HEAVEN AND ON EARTH. GO THEREFORE AND MAKE DISCIPLES OF ALL THE NATIONS, BAPTIZING THEM IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER AND THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT, TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THAT I COMMANDED YOU; AND LO, I AM WITH YOU ALWAYS, EVEN TO THE END OF THE AGE." MATTHEW 28:18-20 Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 2

3 W elcome Aboard!!! We are overjoyed that you have stepped into a journey with Christ as you participate in The Great Commission to Go and make disciples along the Amazon River Basin in Brazil. You are participating in a high calling as you serve the people along the river, and God is going to transform you even more into His likeness through this experience, as you literally become HIS Hands and HIS Feet for HIS People. At Amazon Outreach WE BELIEVE: That God is sending his people (us!) to the ends of the earth. That everyone should have access to clean water, adequate healthcare, and basic humans needs food, clothing and shelter. Without Jesus we are alone He is our only Hope! Christ changes lives (beginning with ours) through our obedience and, as a result, we grow spiritually. We are His hands and feet God s conduit His royal ambassadors. Faith demands action. This Missionary Manual provides answers to virtually EVERYTHING you need to know now about the trip and your preparation for it. Your trip leader will be your primary contact person for any questions you may have about your specific trip. To be spiritually prepared for your mission trip, spend time praying and in bible study and daily devotionals. Your team will also have several team meetings prior to the trip. Your attendance at ALL of these meetings is extremely important for planning purposes and reflects your commitment to the trip and to the rest of your team. Thank you for joining us in this exciting work that God is doing along The Amazon River! Your life will never be the same and neither will the lives of the countless people who receive eternal LIFE in Jesus because of your faithfulness in responding to HIS calling upon your life. We can t wait to see all the ways that God will work in and through your life as you go in HIS NAME to the people along the Amazon River. Joyfully serving alongside you, Executive Director Amazon Outreach Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 3

4 TABLE OF CONTENTS GENERAL TRIP INFORMATION... 8 PERSONAL PACKING LIST TEAM PACKING ITEMS FOOD & ACCOMODATIONS A TYPICAL DAY INTERPRETER RELATIONS HEALTH AND SAFETY PRAYER & FINANCIAL SUPPORT SAMPLE SUPPORT LETTERS TRIP CHECKLIST THE MOST IMPORTANT PREPARATION PRAYER TESTIMONIALS GET ON BOARD Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 4

5 BRAZIL Stretching over 4,345 miles, the Amazon River Basin is an expansive, yet isolated region. The Amazon River is the longest river in the world and runs through the South American countries of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, Venezuela, and Brazil and accounts for 20% of the fresh water that drains into the world s oceans. There are an estimated 33,000 villages on the banks of the Amazon River with no Gospel presence. Indigenous people who have been neglected by civilization inhabit the Amazon. The river is the only highway, and the boat is the only transportation. The State of Amazonas has few major roads or highways roads, and transportation is mainly by river. This is also where over 1,000 tributaries come together to form the Amazon River. And it is in these rivers where our mission trips take place. Not only on the Amazon but also the Solimões, Negro, Cuieiras, and Madeira rivers. 39 out of every 1,000 infants will die before they learn to walk, and waterborne diseases are the leading causes of death. 25% never learn to read. With an annual per capita income of just over $200, poverty and hardships grip the villagers who populate this undeveloped tropical rainforest. Floods, malaria, and proximity to neighboring drug trafficking countries further exacerbate the problems. Alcoholism is prevalent in almost every village. Many of the villages we visit make you feel like you have stepped back in time a few hundred years. These villages are usually located off the main river on a tributary or a beautiful lake. The homes are generally built with wood, bamboo, and leaves. They are very small homes with several people living in one house. No matter what size the village there is, there is usually a Catholic Church, a school, and a soccer field. The people along the Amazon are quite humble and reserved. After they get over their shyness, they are very hospitable and always greet visitors with a smile. The men usually hunt or fish in the morning while the women grind manioc (the primary source of calories) and take care of the children. Some villages have common fields which they harvest together and share the profits. People travel in flat bottom canoes from place to place. There are no bikes or cars in the smaller villages, but you will find an occasional one in the larger villages. The pace of life is slow and simple, and there are many opportunities to get to know these sweet and generous people. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 5

6 OUR HISTORY Amazon Outreach began in After taking several mission trips to Brazil, a small group of short- term missionaries (people very similar to you) developed a passion for the villagers of the Amazon River Basin. They formed Amazon Outreach, elected a board of directors, and raised the funds to build a mission boat. One mission boat turned into two plus a well drilling boat. We have taken over 300 teams to the Amazon, visited hundreds of villages, and drilled over 120 wells. Over 300 surgeries have been performed the majority of which were financially impossible for these indigent villagers. Early teams were comprised of only adults. Individuals, church groups, businesses, and schools commit to go on our short- term mission trips. Today, we rarely take a team without families and youth on board. There is a team for anyone willing to step out in faith. Check The Trip Calendar to see what trip date will work for you! God transforms lives there but he also transforms lives here! Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 6

7 We have watched as young people transformed by a mission trip, begin reaching the lost in their schools and communities. Many of these students return to the Amazon as young adults leading their own trips. Families return on fire for the Lord and begin to live missional lives. We have heard countless testimonies of young people souled out for God and His mission in their life after they come home, and pastors telling us how their congregation has changed after people experienced God on the mission field. People have entered seminary and devoted their lives to full- time ministry once they witness God working up close and personal on the Amazon. Lives on the river are won for eternity but lives on the boat come back with a much deeper and richer relationship with the Lord. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 7

8 GENERAL TRIP INFORMATION Trip Application, QA, Packing How Do I Sign Up For A Trip? Please follow the instructions below. IF YOU HAVE NEVER BEEN ON AN AMAZON OUTREACH TRIP BEFORE: Go to and click on Sign up for a Trip Today. Click on the box that says I have never been on a trip with Amazon Outreach. Do not double- click, only single click or you will receive an error message. Click on the Apply button by the trip date you are going on. Fill out all forms in their entirety and be sure to click save and continue at bottom of each page. Ask your trip leader for the Trip Code. Wait until you have 5 or 10 minutes to complete because there is a time out built into the system for security purposes. You might lose all your work if you wait several minutes without any activity. Make sure to jot down your computer- generated password after complete the forms. IF YOU HAVE BEEN ON A PREVIOUS AMAZON OUTREACH TRIP: Go to and click on Sign up for a Trip Today. Single click on the box that says you have been on a trip before and want to return. Click on the Apply button by the trip date you desire. You will complete the fields on a page that looks like this: Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 8

9 It is very important to fill your name in just the way it is in the system. Ask your trip leader for your Trip Code. If you have already registered online for a trip in the past, this will assign you to the trip you designated in the previous page and you re done. If this is your first time to register on- line you will need to complete all pages and follow the prompts, pressing save and continue as you go. Please make sure you jot down the computer- generated password that it gives you on the last page after completing the forms. Once you register on- line you won t have to complete these forms again. If your information needs to be updated you go to and put in your address that you put into the system when signing up originally and your computer- generated password and you can update any information that is needed. Is This Trip For Me One of the first questions that everyone asks when considering a mission trip is, Should I go? The hardest part of the entire mission adventure can be taking that first step and making the decision to go. Inevitably doubts will arise and possible reasons for not going will appear. Common concerns can include vacation time conflicts, uncertainties about leaving family members behind, not being able to teach or having done ministry before, not knowing what to expect or how you can be used on the trip, not having ever traveled outside of the country, not having financial support and much more. Take heart! These are all normal and very valid concerns. Just remember that what seems impossible with man is possible with God! If you are meant to take part in this mission trip, nothing you do or don t do will stop you from going. God s strength is perfected in our weakness. God does not ask that we are able just available. He will open every door and take care of your every need. As you begin stepping out in faith, having the desire and passion to see the world come to Christ, the Holy Spirit will confirm that this is for you. How Do I Receive Information About The Mission Trip Once I Sign Up? You will be receiving a list of trip meetings (dates & times) from your trip leader. At these meetings, you will receive specific information regarding your specific trip. Please remember that your attendance at ALL of these meetings is extremely important for planning purposes and reflects your commitment to the trip and to the rest of your team. Who Is Going From The US and Whom Will We Be Working With In Brazil? There will be a wide assortment of North Americans who will be participating in this mission trip including youth, college students, single adults, married couples, parents and grandparents. You may be on a trip with members of your church only or it may include people from other area churches, other denominations, or even from other states. Each trip will also have Brazilian brothers and sisters in Christ who we will serve alongside. Amazon Outreach has Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 9

10 partnered with churches on the Amazon River that are currently involved in evangelizing the people living in the Amazon River Basin. The pastors and missionaries precede us, make follow- up visits after us, and have a good knowledge of the people and the culture. Can Children Go On The Trip? Youth are encouraged to participate in the trip; however, they must be at least 12 years of age to go. Please note: Exceptions to the age requirement are possible. It is solely at the discretion of the trip leader whether or not a child, below or above the age of 12, will be allowed to go on the trip. Parents and children will be asked to meet with the trip leader on an individual (family) basis in determining each child s maturity level, their ability to tolerate the physical and emotional aspects of the trip and to ensure their parents understanding of THEIR responsibility for their child throughout the duration of the trip in the event the child be allowed to participate. Is A Minor Child Allowed To Go Without A Parent? Not unless the parents of the child give full and written consent and also if a willing adult is identified to be their chaperone and be fully responsible for the minor. How Can A Child Participate On This Trip? Each trip member, including youth, will have real- life opportunities to be used by our Living God to change the eternal destinies of the people they will meet. And, they will have an opportunity to entrust their lives to Jesus Christ more completely than ever before. Therefore, their participation in all aspects of the trip, from raising prayer and financial support, collecting supplies, attending all meetings and general preparation for the trip is crucial to the effectiveness of God s work in their lives as well as the lives of the people they will be ministering to. What Type Of Clothes Do I Wear On The Trip? Ladies and Girls should wear comfortable shorts, capris or pants and T- shirts during the day. For the evening services, dresses or a skirt and blouse. Bathing suits must be one piece for showering on the back of the boat. Shorts should be mid- thigh length or longer. Shorts shorter than mid- thigh are prohibited. Low cut, tank tops, tight fitting tops or tops with spaghetti straps are not appropriate. Tops or T- shirts must cover the entire midriff area no matter what position you are in (bending over or reaching up). Men and Boys should wear comfortable shorts or pants and T- shirts during the day and long pants or Bermuda shorts for the evening services. A shirt must be worn at all times. Shorts should be mid- thigh length or longer. Shorts shorter than mid- thigh are prohibited. A swimsuit must be worn for showering on the back of the boat. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 10

11 All Team Members: Remember whether we are on a trip, at work or at school we are to be a reflection of Christ and should dress appropriately. (Christians in Brazil are very conservative and we want to be respectful of their culture with our actions and our dress.) Women s Clothing Examples YES NO! Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 11

12 Men s Clothing Examples YES NO! How Many Clothes Should I Take? You will take three (3) changes of clothing plus an outfit for the evening services. The laundry will be done daily so there is no need to bring more than a three- day supply of changes. Don t take anything you would mind losing or leaving behind. Is There A Personal Packing List With Everything I Need? Yes. There is a personal packing list located NEAR the end of this section. What Do I Pack In? You will pack all of your personal belongings in one carry- on bag. In addition you are allowed to carry a small backpack or purse. Two suitcases are also permitted per person; however, these will be used to carry supplies needed for the trip. What About Medication I am Currently Taking? If you are on any kind of medication, please take it with you. If refrigeration for such medication is needed, such as insulin, be sure to let your trip leader know. Please advise the trip physician prior to your departure of any special medical needs. We also recommend you bring a small emergency medication kit for yourself. This kit may contain anti- diarrhea medicine, Pepto- Bismol, Tylenol, Dramamine, allergy medicine, etc. To avoid problems when passing through customs, keep medicines in their original, labeled containers. PACK YOUR MEDICATION IN YOUR CARRY- ON. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 12

13 How Can I Prepare Myself Physically, Spiritually and Mentally? Physically Beginning 4-6 weeks before your trip, a brisk walk in the heat of the day is very helpful to begin getting accustomed to the temperatures on the river. Drink lots of water before, during and after the trip! Spiritually Pray, pray, pray!!! Get a prayer partner or a group to pray specifically for you. Study your evangelism tools provided by your trip leader to be prepared to present the Gospel message in a way that is comfortable to you. Pray daily for the many different aspects of the trip. Mentally The key words on any mission trip are FLEXIBILITY and PATIENCE! From the moment the trip begins until you have returned home, plans and events seem to change with every turn. If you know this ahead of time and are prepared for these changes, the trip can be fun and exciting. God is in control of our plans, and we are always amazed at how creative He is and how much we learn. Should I Bring And/ Or Wear Jewelry On The Trip? Jewelry, with the exception of watches, wedding rings, and small earrings need to be left at home. We don t want to stereotype the image of rich Americans. Can I Use My Cell Phone While On The Boat? The environment of this mission trip allows you and your fellow trip members the opportunity to detach from any distractions from home and be totally focused on God and His plans for the trip. It also may provide the opportunity for God to do some faith building in you/your family members. THEREFORE, CELL PHONE USE IS STRONGLY DISCOURAGED WHILE ON THE TRIP AND IS NOT PERMITTED AT ALL WHILE ON THE BOAT. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 13

14 PERSONAL PACKING LIST Pack your personal belongings in one carry- on bag, preferably on rollers. You are also allowed to carry a small backpack or purse. Bring two 70 lb. check- on suitcases or duffel bags for supplies to be used on the trip. Mark all items with your initials or name for easy identification. Pack belongings in a Ziploc bag for protection. Shorts (3) mid- thigh T- shirts (3) (sleeveless shirts must be about 4 finger widths wide) Socks(4-5 colorful or identifiable to find more easily) Underwear (4-5), Bras (3) Flight outfit: dress warmly, the airport is cold. Church outfit: Women casual skirt/dress. Men casual slacks or shorts & shirt Light jacket Pajamas (appropriate for mixed company - usually knit pants, shorts, T- shirts) Sturdy shoes (best are athletic sandals with toes, like Keen or tennis shoes) Flip- Flops (for shower and boat wear not for the villages) Swimsuit (one piece) or wear a shirt over a full coverage tankini Sun visor/hat Sunglasses Sunscreen (preferably lotion not spray - it makes the floor slick) Insect repellent w/deet Mini fan Toiletries in a hanging bag to hang from hammock Soap for bathing: useful to put shower items in mesh lingerie bag with drawstrings Carabiners for hanging items from hammock Personal prescription medicines, Malaria pills Washcloth or scrubber type loofa Camera Travel pillow & Travel blanket Flashlight and/or headlamp preferably with red light Book/reading material Eye mask Ear plugs Bible and Small Journal Pen/Pencil Portuguese/English dictionary Snacks (individually wrapped or in a baggie) Spending/Travel Money ($200 recommended for travel meals and souvenirs. $50 per person recommended for optional donation to translators and crew) Electronic devices - Please do not have inappropriate music on the device (Christians in Brazil are very conservative and we want to be respectful of their culture with our music our actions and our dress.) Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 14

15 What Type Of Supplies Will I Be Collecting For The Trip Every trip member is asked to collect supplies/donations that are needed for the trip. At each village we minister to, we will give out family packs to each family in the village. Each family pack includes items (supplies) like toiletries, clothes, multiple pairs of flip- flops, dish towels, etc. There is a list of needed supplies located at the end of this section. Where Do The Supplies Come From Everyone going on the trip collects the supplies we will take with us. You should start collecting supplies as soon as you know you are going on the trip. Each person will need to collect enough supplies to FILL TWO large suitcases/duffle bags (i.e., a family of 4 people going on the trip will need to collect enough supplies to fill EIGHT suitcases). Your trip leader will provide you with more information regarding supplies to collect and will suggest different ways of collecting them. How Do The Supplies Get To Brazil Each person going on the trip will need 2 LARGE suitcases or duffle bags. Each person will need to collect enough supplies to FILL both of their bags. You will bring your 2 packed suitcases & bags to the airport with you on the day your trip departs. These will be your checked luggage. (Your personal items clothes, toiletries, etc. will be packed in your carry- on bag.) Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 15

16 TEAM PACKING ITEMS (Start collecting these NOW) Lightweight summer clothing (men s, women s, boys, girls) Baby clothes Cloth Diapers Baby Blankets Pacifiers Sandals or Flip Flops Baseball Hats or Visors Sunglasses Canvas Tote Bags Toothbrushes Dish Towels and Hot Pads Fishing Line, Lures and Hooks Small Toys (very small) Soap Toiletries (sample/travel sizes are good) Antiseptic Creams Cortisone Creams Adult and Children s Vitamins with Iron Antibiotics Tylenol Ibuprofen (adult) Flashlights Batteries of all sizes Small Pocket Knives (for checked luggage only) Small Non Electrical Tools (Hammers, Screwdrivers, Chisels, Short Levels) VBS materials (refer to VBS Manual) Candy (the best is individually wrapped chewables, lollipops, Tootsie Rolls, Sweet Tarts) Soccer Balls Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 16

17 FOOD & ACCOMODATIONS Where Will I Be Staying During The Trip? God has blessed Amazon Outreach with two beautiful Brazilian riverboats, the Linda Esperança (Beautiful Hope) and the Amor e Esperança (Love & Hope). One of these boats will be your home during the trip. Both boats are open- air boats (all decks open) and have been beautifully designed with Brazilian wood. Where Do We Sleep? A hammock will be provided for you to sleep in. Most previous trip members say that sleeping in these hammocks on the boat is the most comfortable and restful sleep they have ever experienced. A pillow and a blanket are also provided. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 17

18 What Is The Food Like? All meals are prepared by a Brazilian cooking crew who are part of the boat crew. All meals are Brazilian in nature and flavor and are eaten on the boat. The food on board is fabulous; however, you may want to take along your favorite snack food (peanut butter, crackers, candy bars, etc.) for between meals. What About Laundry? Our Wash Lady will do your laundry every day. You will put your dirty clothing in a laundry tub and they will be washed, dried and put into designated areas ready for pick up, usually by the next day. What Are The Bathroom and Showers Like? There are several bathrooms on the boat and several inside showers as well as outdoor showers (a bathing suit is required when showering on the back of the boat). What Is The Weather Like Along The Amazon? Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 18

19 The average daytime temperature can go up to the mid- 90's though there is much variability and cool days (mid to upper 80 s) are common. Nighttime lows are generally in the mid 70's to high 60's. Is The Water Safe To Drink? Although the water on the Amazon Outreach boats is filtered and is safe for showering, it is not drinkable. There is plenty of bottled water available on the boat for drinking and individual bottles are plentiful for you to take into the villages with you to drink throughout the day while you are ministering. Is There A Private Quiet Time Each Day? With approximately 50 people on board an 85- foot boat, it can be challenging to find a private or quiet spot... but it CAN BE DONE! Some people will arise early in the morning and spread out on the boat to experience a uniquely wonderful time alone with God while viewing the awesome sunrise over the river. Some people prefer to have their prayer time right after lunch each day while most of the other people on board are taking a siesta. Still, others are able to have a nightly quiet time with their flashlight and Bible in tow after most others have gone to bed. Will There Be A Chance To Buy Souvenirs? Some trips have an afternoon to shop at the end of the trip. Take a little cash if you desire. Most shops accept MasterCard and Visa. It is best to take small bills, 5 s, 10 s, 20 s. What About Using Tobacco & Alcoholic Beverages During The Trip? Absolutely no tobacco products or drinking of alcoholic beverages is permitted at any time from the beginning of trip until your return. Brazilian Christians do not smoke or drink and this could be a stumbling block in our witness to them. Do I Make My Own Travel Arrangements? No. Amazon Outreach makes all travel arrangements. You will receive your travel itinerary from your trip leader prior to departure as well as your airline ticket. How Do You Get To Brazil? Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 19

20 The trips usually fly out of Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport to Miami or Atlanta and then on to Manaus, Brazil. Upon arrival in Manaus you will board one of Amazon Outreach s boats. Will I Need A Passport, How Long Will It Take, & Will I Need To Pay For It? Yes, you will need a passport. Applications for a passport can be obtained from most U.S. Post Office locations. You need to allow 2-4 months to get a passport, so don t delay! Your trip leader will need copies of your passport at least 2 months prior to your trip departure date. Your passport must have at least 2 blank consecutive pages and must be valid for 6 months past your trip departure date. The name on your passport MUST match the name we submit for your plane ticket. So, please make sure we have your correct passport name. You must pay for your passport and cannot use your support- raised funds to pay for it. Will I Need A Visa To Enter Brazil, How Much Will It Cost Yes, you will need a Brazilian Visa. About 6 weeks before the trip, your trip leader will instruct you on filling out the visa application. Your trip leader will collect your application along with the applications of the other members of the team and will apply as a group for the visas. The estimated cost is $200. What Will Happen If I Need To Cancel My Trip If a team member should cancel their trip after their airline tickets have been purchased they will forfeit $500 of their trip support. Any money left over after the $500 is deducted can be used for a future trip during the following year from the date of the cancelled trip. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 20

21 A TYPICAL DAY What Would I Do On This Mission Trip? You do not need to be a health care professional to be a part of this mission trip. MDs, DDSs, Nurses and Pharmacists are greatly needed and welcomed, but we are never short of things to do during the trips. There are numerous ministries you can serve on that need no prior experience. These ministry teams include Vacation Bible School, Women s Ministry, Men s Ministry, Youth Ministry, Construction, Hair Ministry, Soccer Ministry, and of course Evangelism. God may even use you to begin a new ministry! TRIP SCHEDULE (MAY VARY FROM TRIP TO TRIP) Day 1 Day 2 Days 3-7 Day 8 Day 9 Depart home and travel to Manaus, Brazil. Arrive in Manaus and board boat. 12 to 18- hour boat ride to 1 st village. Ministering in the villages of the Amazon River Basin. Boat ride back to Manaus. Depart from Manaus and travel home. Many team members ask us what a typical day on a trip is like. No two days are alike and no trip is alike but there are always similarities. Every day on the Amazon starts with an early morning breakfast, a morning meeting, worship & praise time, and prayer. Each day people break up into prayer groups to pray before going out to do ministry. Lunch and dinner are served back on the boat while some of the team members help feed the villagers. At lunchtime there are usually a couple of hours to relax before going back out to the ministry sites. Usually, there is an afternoon or evening church service in the town or village where the team is working, and the group attends. This is an incredible time of worship as Americans and Brazilians worship the One True God together. Most days end back on the boat in a time of worship & praise and sharing each other s daily experiences. Days of ministry on the Amazon consist of many different facets. The Medical ministry treats various illnesses and medical conditions. Surgeons perform life- changing surgeries. Eyeglasses are given out that provide vision for the first time for many. Dentists pull badly diseased teeth. Mothers are given proper pre- natal & post- natal care. Babies, children, and families are given vitamins, toothbrushes, and basic hygiene products and instruction. The Men s ministry shares the true message of freedom and teaches men how to be godly, spiritual leaders of their families and their village. The Women s ministry presents the Gospel and gives encouragement to village women through Bible studies, childcare and health care. At the same time, the kids Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 21

22 are off at Vacation Bible School singing songs, playing games, hearing Bible stories, working on projects, and eating lots of candy! Village soccer teams are challenged to a world cup game against the Americans. Friendships and ministry opportunities are made while fishing, swimming, and playing sports and simply talking with the Brazilians. In all, it s an experience that is sure to leave a lasting and often life changing impression on all those who take part. Some have adopted Brazilian children, others have decided to go into full- time ministry, and all have developed bonds of life long friendships of fellow participants. The Bible says, We are therefore Christ s ambassadors, as though God was making His appeal through us. Think about that! Most of us would never even qualify to be ambassadors for our own country, yet a Holy God trusts us and has called us to be ambassadors on His behalf. What an honor and privilege it is to serve Him! Who Are We & How Do We Fit In? Amazon Outreach has partnered with churches on the Amazon River that are currently involved in evangelizing the people living in the Amazon River Basin. The pastors and missionaries precede us, follow us, and have a good knowledge of the people and the culture. We are dealing with three cultures in our ministry; the American culture, the Brazilian culture and the village culture. It is not our desire to change any of these cultures but to work in harmony together. The Brazilian churches we partner with have developed their own mission strategies to reach the remote villages of the Amazon and our most important job is to help build relationships with these villagers and break down barriers so that doors will be opened for the gospel. We need to remember first and foremost that we are in Brazil to serve God and serve the Brazilian leaders. If you have never been on a mission trip before, but you have seen videos and pictures, please keep in mind that your trip will be different than you expect. If you have been on a trip before or if you have been on 20 trips, your next trip will be different than the last one. God uses all the different ministries to open doors for the gospel message. If you plan to be involved in a certain ministry (even if you are in the medical ministry) it could change when you arrive at the village. Often, doctors/dentists are busy with patients, but sometimes find themselves with no patients and in a VBS skit instead. These are often considered the HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TRIP by those who are involved in ministries that they never expected to be part of. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 22

23 Our job is to follow the lead of the Brazilian leaders and NOT to go with our planned agenda. No two villages are the same. Some are larger with streets, electricity, running water and even satellite dishes! Others are very remote with just a few families and no modern conveniences at all. Sometimes, even when we know the names of the villages the Brazilians intend for us to visit, there will be a change of plans. The level of the river can go up or down considerably in a short amount of time and our planned route and destinations have to change also. There are times when a plantation owner will come by a village and hire many of the adults just before we arrive, changing the time needed to be in that village. Brazilians are extremely relational people and would much prefer a casual conversation than a planned program. Remember this when you are planning any of your men s or women s ministries. Talk to these people and let them respond! Getting to know them is one of the best parts of this ministry. Brazilians very rarely consider time important. Remember we are not there to change their culture but to serve them in their ministry. You might consider taking off your watch upon arrival. Americans tend to have a checklist and an agenda for each day and may forget the most important component... the Holy Spirit. Please remember how critical it is to be flexible with the schedule that is planned, and when the plan changes, look for where God is working and go there. Expect the unexpected! Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 23

24 INTERPRETER RELATIONS The interpreters on the boat are much like family to us. Because of this relationship we have with them we find that, just like family, they are the easiest to hurt. We need to protect and guard this relationship because the interpreters are our life line to spreading the Gospel and doing any mission work in the Amazon. We want each team to respect, love and cherish each of these incredibly, hard working, spiritual, young people. Below are some things you and your team need to remember in regard to our relationship with them. Interpreters are valuable to us, and there are never quite enough of them to go around. Do not cling to one and expect or insist to have the same one work with you every day. Please let the interpreters get to know the other team members even though you might have a close friendship with them. This is a team effort! If you are near another ministry station and there is a shortage of interpreters, please share. Please speak clearly and ask the interpreter if they can understand you easily. Never, under any circumstances, criticize their efforts in speaking English. Translating is extremely difficult. Showing patience and respect will help them relax and improve in the job they are doing. Remember that evangelism is very important & usually takes precedence over other things. Please do not pursue any romantic relationships with an interpreter. We are on a mission trip, and this is very distracting to the mission at hand. Always remember the purpose of the trip. Almost every interpreter, crew member, pastor, or missionary will do anything an American asks them to do, even though they know it should not be done or it could be done in a better way. Be careful not to demand, but ask them for their ideas and input as you plan your day. Never give an interpreter a gift or money directly. They are all paid for their work with us, and you will have the opportunity to tip them as a group at the end of the trip. In the past, we have had team members invite an interpreter to the U.S., discuss educational funding or do special favors for them. These generous ideas can quickly get out of hand. The biggest difficulty is that it creates disunity in the team of interpreters. If there is one interpreter getting special perks from one or more of the Americans this will bring negative feelings and a competitive spirit within the entire group. How do you think this makes the other interpreters feel when one of them gets treated like they are more important or special than the others? For this reason Amazon Outreach will not be involved in any transactions relating to individual translators. Although it is not recommended (for the reason stated above), trip members may send (mail) individual gifts to the translators at their own expense after the trip is completed. Under no circumstances are gifts for translators, boat crew, etc. be allowed to be taken on trips packed in donation luggage. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 24

25 Are We Expected To Tip The Boat Crew and The Translators? Our translators and boat crew are invaluable to us and will become like family to you. The staff consists of the boat captains, cooks, boat crew, cleaning people and translators. As the trip progresses, getting to know these people can become one of the most memorable times and experiences of the trip! The crew and our interpreters are a lifeline to the work that God has opened the doors for us to do, and they are a very integral part of the team. At the end of the trip a love offering will be collected and divided among them. This is an optional donation, but if you decide to contribute, whatever you feel led to give will be greatly appreciated. We discourage any one- to- one gifts because this seems to create competition among the crew members for our attention. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 25

26 HEALTH AND SAFETY Are Vaccinations Required In Order For Me To Go To The Amazon? There are certain vaccinations that are required and/or recommended for travel into the Amazon region. Hepatitis A: Given in two doses (2nd dose 3 to 6 months following the 1st dose). Good for life after 2nd dose. Hepatitis B: Given in three doses (2nd dose 1 month following the 1st dose; 3rd dose 6 months following the 1st dose). Good for life after 3rd dose. TWINRIX: Combination Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Given in three doses (2nd dose 1 month following the 1st dose; 3rd dose 6 months following the 1st dose). Good for life after 3rd dose. NOTE: TWINRIX is given instead of Hep A and Hep B not in addition to. Tetanus- Diphtheria: Booster required every 10 years. Malaria: Tablets are taken once a week starting 1 week prior to travel, and continuing weekly during travel, and then for 4 weeks after travel. There is also a daily tablet available that is taken starting 1 to 2 days prior to travel, continuing during the duration of the trip, and then for 7 days after travel. Ask you doctor for specific directions. Yellow Fever: 1 dose valid for 10 years. NOTE: When you receive the Yellow Fever shot, you will be given a yellow vaccination record that you will take with you when you travel. The yellow fever vaccination, which must be given through your local County Health Department or a clinic that specializes in travel medicine. Where Should I Go To Get The Shots? Typically, the most inexpensive place to get your immunizations is at your local County Health Department. Depending on your insurance, it may or may not be cost effective for you to get them from your regular family doctor. It is ideal to schedule your vaccinations to begin 4 to 6 months prior to your departure date. Dallas County Health Department 2377 N. Stemmons Fwy Other Sources for vaccinations (in the DFW area): Passport Health or (for locations and forms) Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 26

27 Agape International Travel Ministries Dallas Area 810 East Border Street, Suite C Arlington, TX Las Colinas Area 349 Las Colinas Blvd., Suite B Las Colinas, TX Keystone Medical Center 8702 B Spring Valley Road Richardson, TX Please contact each clinic for current prices. Each trip member is responsible for the cost of his or her immunizations. Can I Pay For The Shots Using Money That Was Raised For My Trip? By law, because Amazon Outreach is a tax- exempt non- profit organization, money that has been donated cannot be refunded or used for purposes of providing a personal benefit to an individual. Immunizations are considered a personal benefit. What Diseases Are Most Common, What Other Health Risks Should I Be Concerned About? As with any third world country, there are various medical issues of which to be aware. The vaccinations that we recommend will take care of the majority of the possible infections that may arise, but a few potential diseases need to be dealt with differently. While any food served on the boat is safe to eat, it is highly recommended that you not eat any uncooked or raw vegetables, fruit or meat while on the trip. The most prevalent disease along the Amazon River is Malaria. It is vital that all trip members procure and take antimalarial drugs exactly as they are prescribed. Your health care provider will decide which antimalarial drug(s) are the right ones for you and your family. A medical condition may prevent you from taking a particular antimalarial drug. In addition, children's dosages are based on their age and weight and need to be carefully calculated. Also, although most Americans are accustomed to temperatures in the high 80 s and 90 s during the summer months, most of us are NOT used to being out in these temperatures all day everyday. For this reason, it is imperative that each trip member takes special care of himself or herself and watches out for their fellow trip members. This includes drinking plenty of water continuously throughout each day and resting when needed. Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 27

28 PRAYER & FINANCIAL SUPPORT Everything in the heavens and earth is yours, O Lord, and this is your kingdom. We adore you as being in control of everything. Riches and honor come from you alone, and you are the Ruler of all mankind; your hand controls power and might, and it is at your discretion that men are made great and given strength 1 Chronicles 29:11-12 Join Amazon Outreach in ministering to the people of The Amazon River. God has called you to help fulfill the GREAT COMMISSION and GO on this trip this year. GOD IS ALREADY AT WORK IN YOUR LIFE AND THE LIVES OF THE PEOPLE ALONG THE AMAZON RIVER TO BRING THIS TRIP TOGETHER. You are simply joining the Father in what HE already planned. It is critical that you understand a very important concept here. Your primary role is to raise up a faithful team of people to pray for you. And we don t mean pray in the loose sense of the word. You will really need a full- blown, committed team of people praying for you. To the extent that GOD lays it on their heart to help support you financially, that is great. But first and foremost, you need to plead with them to pray for you, both now and while you are on the trip. YOUR MINISTRY TO THE PEOPLE OF THE AMAZON HAS ALREADY BEGUN. In fact, according to Scripture, since before the foundation of the world, God has chosen you and appointed you that you REST ASSURED, WHERE GOD CALLS, HE ALSO WILL PROVIDE should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should remain. This trip and your role in it have been on God s radar screen from eternity past. It may be a recent development for you that you have committed to go on this trip, but God has known about it all along. Do you really think HE would have had this planned for you from infinite millenniums past and not already known how and from where and from whom the small, but inconsequential amount of money was going to come? TRUST HIM, HE HAS it all figured out. And, once you see it, you will be overwhelmed by HIS power and provision. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. PHILLIPIANS 4:6,7 So often we get caught up in thinking that it is our will, our might, our ability, our resources, and our emotions that GOD needs to accomplish HIS purposes, that we forget that HE is the source of all that we are and all that we have. HE does call on us to freely and willingly invest Copyright 2015 Amazon Outreach Page 28

29 all of the talents and resources HE has entrusted to us, but we must always know that HE alone is the One who takes our honest and humble investment, and multiplies it and magnifies it for HIS glory. GOD WILL MAKE THE PROVISION FOR YOU TO PARTICIPATE ON THIS TRIP in all areas of your life, including the financial aspect. HE will provide for each team member to go, but to each one in HIS own unique way. GOD may provide some of the funds through your personal savings, as you commit to trust HIM with the future. HE may provide some of the funds through your job or some other special activity like a garage sale or car wash. HE may provide some of the funds through the gifts of others. However HE provides for you, rest assured that HE will want you to know that HE is the Author and Finisher, not just of your faith, but also of your participation and experience on this trip. With all of this in mind, following are a number of steps and suggestions to take as you put together your prayer and financial support team. Is Raising Financial Support Biblical? YES! In 3 John chapter 8 believers were urged to financially support those who were going out on behalf of the Gospel because that made them fellow workers in the truth ; The Jews gave Page 29

30 their support to the priests (today s Christians are the priesthood) in Numbers 18:24; Luke 8:2-3 clearly states that many people supported Jesus and His disciples; Matthew 10:9-10 states that a Kingdom worker (that s YOU) is worthy of his support; Paul stopped tent making to preach the Gospel full time on support and 1 Corinthians 9:1-18 says that Paul had the right to be supported by the churches. How Do I Raise Support? There are many different ways you can raise financial support, but the best (proven) way to raise both PRAYER and FINANCIAL support is by sending out support letters. The KEY to sending out support letters is to understand and remember that GOD is the source of the funds, not the donors, not our plans or our hard work. Jesus says we have not because we ask not. The word ask is used in the gospels 113 times. God wants to teach us about asking: HIM and OTHERS. It is a proven fact that most people will tell you they give because they were asked! If I Can Afford To Pay For My Trip Do I Need To Send Support Letters? If God has blessed you financially, GREAT! But please don t deprive someone else of receiving the blessing of praying for you and/or giving just because YOU have been financially blessed. Don t allow the enemy to use your blessedness to plant a seed of pride in your heart by INSISTING that you pay for your own trip. If the enemy attacks you in this way, the best way to counteract this attack is to pay for another trip member and raise support for your own trip costs. Trip members hesitant to send out support letters later reported: I realized that the level of my hesitancy to send out support letters was in direct proportion to the enemy s desire for me to not send them out. How Much Does The Trip Cost? The current trip cost per person is $2,000 + Airfare. *Plus Additional Incidentals (per person) that include: Shots & immunizations Food when not on boat (airports, etc.) Gifts/souvenirs for family and friends Passport & Brazilian Visa fees Translator/Crew tip Minor traveling without both parents * Please note that the incidentals are NOT included in the total trip cost. * All funds paid to Amazon Outreach are a donation for the ministry s use and cannot be returned per 501c3 rules Page 30

31 What Happens If I Raise More Money Than I Need? Any extra funds that GOD PROVIDES can be used in several different ways: The extra funds will help support other team members, buy extra Bibles, tracts, reading glasses, vitamins or supplies to take to the villagers. After the trip is totally funded you can hold your extra funds over for a trip the following year. You must notify Amazon Outreach, in writing within 30 days of returning from the trip, of your intentions to use the extra funds for a trip the next year. What Can Raised Funds Not Be Used For? Excess trip funds cannot be used for passports, immunizations, travel meals, gifts or souvenirs, translator/boat crew gift or for reimbursement of fundraising costs. Can I Give Gifts Or Money To The Brazilians While I Am There? If you wish to donate money or give a gift to someone in particular while you are there, we ask that you donate it to Amazon Outreach and that we give it to the person. This is our policy for very specific reasons, mainly because we are trying to help the Brazilians not go around the ministry in place there, and come straight to the Americans. Also, things can get a little touchy if one Brazilian receives money and/or gifts from an American and others do not. What Happens If I Do Not Raise Enough Financial Support By the Deadline(s)? Your trip leader will talk with you prior to the deadline(s) to see what kind of plan can be used as a backup if your financial support does not come in. Also, your funds may be held over for one year if you are not able to participate due to lack of funds. Where Should The Financial Support Go And To Whom Should Checks Be Made Payable? Your supporters can donate funds for your trip by making checks payable to Amazon Outreach (or your sponsoring church). All checks should be mailed to YOU so that you can track your support and also so that you can mail thank- you letters as the support comes in. Your trip leader will instruct you as to what to do with your support checks when they come in. You can also have supporters donate online. Have them goo to the DONATE button. In the description have them put your name and trip date. Page 31

32 If I Have To Cancel My Trip Can I (Or My Supporters) Get A Refund? By law, Amazon Outreach is not allowed to refund money because we are a 501c3 tax- exempt non- profit organization. Please keep in mind that the funds you raise must be solicited and donated with the understanding that Amazon Outreach has complete discretion and control over the use of all donated funds. In order for the funds donated to allow a tax- deduction, they are not yours or contingent upon your ultimate participation, but Amazon Outreach s funds are to be used to further its charitable purposes. Specific Steps in Raising Support STEP 1: Pray Where God guides, God provides. Acknowledge your total dependence on the Lord of the Harvest to bring eternal fruit from your labors. Acknowledge your total dependence on Him to provide the resources that are needed for this trip. Consciously turn control over to the Holy Spirit. Acknowledge your willingness to do your part, whether that is to use resources God has already given you or to be diligent in gathering in the support that God provides. Trust God and He will expand your faith. STEP 2: Begin With Your Home Church Meet with your pastor or appropriate church leader and tell them what God is calling you to do along The Amazon River. Talk with them about how God has led you to this point and give them information about the trip if they are not yet familiar with the ministry of Amazon Outreach. Find out if there are resources available from your church to help with the cost of your trip. Ask for suggestions on people to talk to and methods to use to raise support. If there are other people from your home church who are going on this same trip, get together and coordinate with each other so you don t all send letters to the same people. Perhaps consider raising support as a team effort. Find out if your church has a policy on this. Will team members be able to personally ask for support from certain groups? Your Sunday School class? The choir? Youth group? Bible study group? STEP 3: Make A List Of Prospects Below is a sample list of people who you may want to contact regarding your trip, but be sure to pray and see if there is someone else in particular that the Lord may want you to contact. If might even be a non- Christian that the Lord will use you going on this trip to open the door of salvation to them! Send your letter to as many people as possible!!! Page 32

33 Church friends Accountant Relatives Co- workers Current neighbors Banker Club contacts Yours & Your Parents Christmas card list School contacts Doctors Insurance agents STEP 4: Write The Letter Soon We have provided you with sample letters for your review and/or use. You are welcome to use them in their entirety, just be sure to make the edits that are unique to your trip (cost, dates, length, etc.). Or you can certainly change it up as you desire or write a completely different one from scratch. Just try to make sure that you are direct, that you communicate the need along the Amazon, your need for prayer, AND your need for a spiritual investment in financial support to go. Don t assume that they will read between the lines. Be clear and direct in letting them know that you trust the Lord for His provision and that you wanted to give them the opportunity to participate in this great investment of helping to minister to the people of The Amazon. If your kids are going, get them to write a small portion of the letter at the bottom OR help them to WRITE THEIR OWN LETTER to send to their friends, schoolmates, sports team members, etc. STEP: 5 Mail The Letter Soon The sooner you get the letter out, the sooner you will see God s power to provide for your needs. Support letters should be sent out 6 MONTHS prior to your trip but NO LATER than 4 months prior. This gives people enough time to pray about how much they should give and time to budget- in a donation. Give GOD enough time to speak to them. Too much time (more than 6 months) and they ll forget. Too little time and they may give but it might only be a token gift instead of a prayerful gift. STEP 6: When The Checks Come In The checks need to be made payable to Amazon Outreach (or your sponsoring church) with your name and trip date written on the memo line of the check. As checks come in, give them to your trip leader. Do not wait until the end to give them to your trip leader. STEP 7: Thank Before You Bank And Keep Track When support checks do come in, first and foremost thank God who is Jehovah Jiri, the Lord Who Provides. Then, make it your goal to say thank you immediately to your supporter via a thank you note. Often times, your support seems to be coming in faster that you can handle. You are busy, and it seems that you are falling behind in correspondence. It would be easy to Page 33

34 forget about it all together. But, supporters need to be thanked and more than that, need to feel that they are a part of your ministry. Also, as you receive gifts, have a simple way to keep track. It is very important that YOU be accountable for the gifts you re receiving. STEP 6: Say Thank You Again After The Trip After the trip, be sure to thank each person again and make it a point to relay a particular story or two that would best illustrate the power of the trip in your life and in the lives of those God used you to minister to. Remember, your supporters were just as much as part of the team as you were. So since they stayed home to provide prayer and financial support for you to go, be sure to take some of the Amazon back with you in the form of stories of changed lives. It will be such a blessing for them to see how God worked in and through you. IF YOU HELP THE POOR, YOU LEND TO THE LORD, AND HE WILL REPAY YOU. proverbs 19:17 Page 34

35 SAMPLE SUPPORT LETTERS Sample #1: Personal Letter Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith (or John and Mary), This summer, I have an opportunity to take part in a mission trip to the Amazon Region of Brazil. We will be taking teams to participate in various types of ministry, including Evangelism & Discipleship, Medical and Dental Ministry, Vacation Bible School, Women s and Men s Ministries and Construction. I hope to participate on the ministry team, and am very excited for the opportunity to be a part of God s work in this area. I am looking forward to the lessons that I will learn, and the people that I can touch through this work. To make this possible I will need both financial and prayer support. My portion of the total trip cost that I will need to raise is $. Any financial support would be greatly appreciated! The deadline for this amount to be received is. If you feel God calling you to be one of my financial supporters I would also love to talk with you before or after the trip and let you know our plans before leaving or the blessings we received while in the Amazon. I look forward to hearing from you soon. I truly believe that God will change many lives because of your willingness to serve Him. Thank you for being a part of this Amazon missions trip. In Him, Dear, You can count on me to support you prayerfully. I would like to make a one time donation of $ for your trip. I would like to contribute $ monthly to Amazon Outreach. Please remember that all donations are tax- deductible and should be made out to Amazon Outreach. Name Phone Address address Page 35

36 Sample #2: Personal Letter Dear Mr. and Mrs. Smith (or John and Mary), This summer, I have an opportunity to take part in a summer mission trip to the Amazon Region of Brazil. I will be going to remote villages to provide health care for the natives and share the gospel. I will be taking part in the ophthalmology ministry and in the pharmaceutical ministry. I am very excited for the opportunity to be a part of God s work and am looking forward to the lessons I will learn and meeting the people that will be touched through this work. To make this possible I will need both financial and prayer support. The portion of the total team amount that I need to raise is $3,200. Our mission trip leaves on and I will need the support by. Would you consider partnering in the work in the Amazon Region by joining the team as a financial and/or prayer supporter? If you choose to help financially you can return a check in the enclosed envelope. I have also enclosed a prayer card to help remind you to pray for us during our ministry. Checks should be made payable to: AMAZON OUTREACH. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at. I look forward to updating you on all that the Lord does in me and through me on this mission trip. In Him, Your Name Page 36

37 Sample #3: Business Letter Dear : While I ve been on missions trips in the past, I have never written to my (insert your company s name) friends about those trips because I never wanted to make anyone feel uncomfortable. Since we have been working together for some time now, I feel like I can be a bit more transparent with you. I will be participating in a mission trip to Brazil this summer with two of my daughters and I wanted to let you know about this wonderful trip. We will be leaving Dallas with a group of 30 Americans from our church. Our team will land in Manaus, which is the largest city in the world with no roads leading to it! (Manaus is bordered by jungles, the Rio Negro and the Amazon River.) We ll board a boat in Manaus and travel to remote small villages - - bringing gifts (soap, shampoo, diapers, medical supplies) as well as medical, optometry and dental experts. While the villagers medical needs are being met, we will also be loving these people with haircuts, (family portraits), vacation bible school for kids and occasional soccer games. We will also take advantage of this opportunity to share what the Bible describes as the greatest gift of all. Seldom at (insert your company s name) do we get to really know the people we work with. I want to let you know that I consider this type service to be among the most important things we do. Accordingly, I wanted to let you know about three critical things we need: prayer, supplies and funding. I have become convinced that part of the joy of this trip is giving others the opportunity to participate whether that be in person, as a prayer warrior, or with supplies and funding. I would like for you to consider if this is something you and your family would like to support. If so, please send back the bottom of this page. Should you wish to provide funding, you can make checks out to Amazon Outreach, a non- profit organization. Your financial gifts are tax deductible. You can also go to amazonoutreach.org for more information about Amazon Outreach. Thanks for letting me be transparent with you and please do not feel obligated to give. Lastly, if you are interested in what the Bible has to say about eternity, I would love to visit with you. Sincerely, I would like you to let me know how I can pray for the trip. I have enclosed a check to help cover the trip costs. I would like you to contact me about providing some of the supplies you will need I am interested in possibly going next year. Name: Page 37

38 TRIP CHECKLIST Anytime Prior To 95 Days (at trip leader s instruction) $200 deposit to reserve a spot on trip of choice Complete online ( Trip Application, Personal Testimony, and Liability Waiver Begin raising support/send out support letters Apply for passport 95 Days Prior To Trip $1300 additional amount due Get first dose of vaccinations: o Yellow fever o Tetanus Booster o Hepatitis A o Hepatitis B (if working with blood) 65 Days Prior To Trip $800 additional amount due Get second dose of vaccinations Turn in visa application and all supporting docs & fees 50 Days Prior To Trip Remainder support $ due 30 Days Prior To Trip Get third dose of vaccinations Obtain/purchase malaria pills 2 Weeks Prior To Trip Fill prescription, take malaria tablet as directed by your doctor Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Date: Page 38

39 THE MOST IMPORTANT PREPARATION PRAYER Prayer is the Key! Prayer is the key to every aspect of taking part in a mission outreach. In the beginning as we pray for guidance on whether God wants us to take part in a trip. We pray He will show us what His will is. As we continue to prepare to go, God will help us as we pray for wisdom in dealing with all the details. Also, we begin to pray for the people that we will be ministering to and ask God to prepare the hearts of all involved. Once we are there, He continues to speak to our hearts and direct our paths in response to seeking His face, by revealing Himself and unleashing the supernatural power of prayer in action. Even after we return back home, God continues on in the work of building up His church and His people, through the prayers that we offer on behalf of those we touched lives with while serving in His harvest fields. God promises to guide you and show you His will regarding going on a mission trip MATH 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; PROV 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. PS 9:10 Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you. PS 73:24 You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory. JN 16:13 But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth. God promises to go with you, and He gives His strength and power to enable His will to be accomplished PS 68:35 You are awesome, O God, in your sanctuary; the God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. PS 73:23 Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand. 2 COR 10:4 The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds. Page 39

40 Prayer is not an option, but a command! God will honor prayer 1 TIM 2:1-4 I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- - for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. PROV 15:8 The LORD detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him. PROV 15:29 The LORD is far from the wicked but he hears the prayer of the righteous. 1 PET 3:12 For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer, JAS 5:16 The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective Jesus even prayed for us and the people that we will minister to in Brazil JN 17:15-19 My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified. JN 17:20-21 "My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. Prayer Requests: Ask your friends and family to pray with you as you prepare for the mission trip. For safe travel for the teams, luggage, medicines, equipment For safety and health for team members For unity, oneness, and love among the team members For open hearts, minds, eyes, and ears to the Gospel message For the enemy and his schemes and plans to be thwarted For wisdom and stamina for the ministry teams and translators For divine appointments, wisdom, and discernment in ministry For future leaders/disciples to arise in the villages For local church follow- up after we leave/wisdom and opportunity Page 40

41 TESTIMONIALS How God Used Me The following is an unedited testimonial from an Amazon Outreach missionary volunteer: How can you condense such a wonderful week of experience into a few short paragraphs? We saw an amazing part of God s creation that many people will never get to experience. Seeing his majesty in the closeness of the stars from your hammock at night or in the flocks of colorful birds or in the pink dolphins rolling in the river was like stepping right into the Psalms. We had wonderful fellowship with each other and with the great staff on the Linda Esperaca. The prayer times and times of singing in the evenings left memories that will always be special. We were used by God to deliver medical services and personal items to people that really did not have access to these things that we take for granted. And most importantly, we were able to introduce people to Jesus that had never heard the Gospel. We visited three villages during our trip, Villa Baptista, Sao Pedro, and Encinada. In each village we set up a clinic with medical and dental services and fit people with prescription glasses. It was humbling to see how much these people needed these basic services, but had no way of getting them. Our stated mission was to show the love of Christ by meeting peoples needs in a practical way. Even those of us that did not have medical training were able to participate by doing such simple things as counting out vitamins, organizing glasses, or cleaning the dental instruments. Some of our team organized Vacation Bible Schools in each village. These people not only demonstrated their love for these children, but also were able to introduce these children to a loving God. The enthusiasm of our VBS volunteers was matched only by the excitement of these wonderful children. At the end of each day, we had a worship service. We would worship the Lord in song, sometimes in English, sometimes in Portuguese, but always mostly off key. The people enjoyed hearing the songs in English and really laughed at the Americans trying to sing very simple phrases in Portuguese. We also would have testimonies and a presentation of the Gospel. The service of course ended with an invitation time. We had different groups that did speed boat evangelism, traveling to the various houses along the river and inviting them to the clinic and worship service. Other groups did evangelism by visiting homes in the village or just by joining people wherever they were gathered. We d talk about their lives and answer questions about ours. After visiting for a short while, they d always ask why we were there. They just couldn t understand why we d come so far to help them. At this point we could introduce them to Jesus and many times were privileged to witness them asking Him to also be their Lord and Savior. We even had one of our team take on Page 41

42 the village children in an impromptu game of soccer. It was a joy to see this seventy- two year old American racing up and down the river bank with two dozen Brazilian kids. They absolutely loved it. When we left Sao Pedro, the entire village lined up on the bank of the river, waving and singing. The song said, friends are a gift from God. We knew what that meant because we d been blessed with them that day. It would be easy to write a book on any one of these experiences. Just listing them seems to sell them so short. I think that one way to put it into perspective is to see if it changed anyone s life. If not, it was just a great vacation. We knew God would change lives in the villages when they were lovingly introduced to Jesus. We did not count on how much He would change lives here at home. There was a meeting at our Church this week to talk about doing missions on a year round basis right here at home. Looking around that room you could see many from this trip.for most this was the first time they d been on a mission trip. Now they are just on a Mission. Page 42

43 Castle Hills Mission Team 2014 Castle Hills Family I want to fill you in on what you have been a part of. On one of the checks we received yesterday, the family wrote, God showed up and showed off! He really has. I want to share what has happened these last few months so you can share in the fun since you are a part of this story. On May 1, 2014 the mission team and the Castle Hills prayer team began Draw The Circle, The 40 Day Prayer Challenge. Some girls started fundraising last August for the trip, others sent out support letters, we held a silent auction but by May 10th we were completely at the end of what we could do as a team to get to the Amazon. On Thursday May 15, we started a prayer wall. Everyone took a one hour slot to pray for God s provision for this trip. While we had no doubt that God was calling us to go to the Amazon we knew it was now impossible for us to do this on our own. We still had to come up with $25,000 to send the team. I know that seems like a lot of money but if no one goes to tell people about Jesus, how will they hear and how can they believe? Every mission trip takes goers and senders. I hope this encourages you to one day be the goer. You have been a fantastic sender. The miracles that God worked to start us off, kept us focused while we were praying. In March, we were able to buy the plane tickets for the group. When we looked on Tuesday, the flights were $2100 a ticket due to the World Cup. If we could not get them for less than $2000 we had decided that we would not be able to go. On Wednesday the ticket prices dropped. The travel agent could not book the seats because he could not find 17 seats available. After 6 hours we were able to book everyone on the same flight. The day before we were going down on 3 different flights and returning on 2 different days. The only dates available for the entire team to go were June Those were the only days that had flights for 17 people. The deadline that we gave ourselves to have all of our money in was May 27th. On Monday the 26th we still needed to raise $18,000. By midnight on May 27th we needed $7,0891. Our deadline we had set for ourselves had ended but we still felt like God intended for us to go. There was a little doubt creeping in, maybe this is not God s plan, He knows more than us, This money is nothing for Him He must intend for us to go next year not this year. So we are still praying like we are going but still wondering what the plan is. Friday was the absolute cut off for all of our money to be turned into Amazon Outreach the mission group we would be traveling with. On Thursday morning, we received a note that someone wanted us to pick up a check. She had received money in the mail that she did not expect. When we returned from her house there Page 43

44 was an from someone donating $500, while we were squealing about that, we received another $500 donation and then another. While leaving to take the money to the bookkeeper, 3 more people dropped off money. Members of the team had just baked cookies to raise the last $630 and we were amazed it was now down to $630! Two people donated the last of the money. Talk about jumping for joy and gleeful texts. The words of the donor Ask & you shall receive. But it gets better! We had already been gifted with $4,500 from Fisher and Company and through the Castle Hills Turkey Trot, to provide clean water for the villagers. To drill several wells, ( as many as possible while on the river) we needed another $ 500. This morning with last minute donations we have $717 over what was needed to get the team on the river to spread the Good News and we now have $217 to spend on supplies! Ooops another $1000! Looks like we are heading to Costco for more medical supplies, we can order more Portuguese bibles and order more glasses! Talk about more than you could ask for! Thank you for helping send this team, for providing an opportunity for the villages we visit to hear the Gospel and for being a part of God s plan to grow the faith of everyone who was involved. Holy Holy Holy is our Lord God Almighty! Page 44