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  PVBC MEXICO MISSIONS PROJECT

PVBC MEXICO MISSIONS PROJECT

August 11-17, 2008

 

Once again, PVBC will partner with other churches in ABCLA this summer to be a witness for Jesus Christ in Mexico.  We will go with Adventures in Life (AIL) Ministries, a non-profit inter-denominational missions organization headquartered in North Hills, CA.  AIL works with schools, churches, and individuals to evangelize, plant churches and provide relief to the people of Mexico.

 

What’s the purpose of this trip?

1.   To make disciples cross-culturally, as Jesus sent us to do (Matthew 28:19)

2.   To partner with churches here and in Mexico to reach out to the local communities around Ensenada (1 Thessalonians 1:8)

3.   To use our God-given gifts and talents to build up the Church (1 Corinthians 12)

 

What will we be doing?

  1. Children’s Ministries/Vacation Bible School
  2. Construction Ministries (church building projects like framing, drywall, painting, cement, etc.)
  3. Music and Worship Ministries (for adults)
  4. Depending upon the makeup of the team, there may be other ministries as well, such as medical, dental, optometry, sports outreaches.

 

How are we getting there?

We’ll be renting a van and driving down to San Diego, where we’ll meet up with other churches on the team and then caravan to Ensenada.

 

Where will we stay?

At the “Esmirna Baptist Church” in the town of El Sauzal, just north of Ensenada, about two blocks from the Pacific Ocean.

 

What will we eat and drink?

The host church will be graciously cooking breakfast and dinner for us on most days (delicious and authentic Mexican food!), and lunches will be sandwiches prepared by volunteer AIL staff.  If you’re sensitive to spicy or rich foods, you’ll need to take precautions.  Additionally, we will be going out for an “all-you-can-eat” taco night during the week (paid for by AIL).

 

What if I don’t know Spanish?

You’ll be at a slight disadvantage, but that will be OK.  There should be plenty of translators if you need one.  If you learn some basic Spanish phrases, you’ll be fine.  Besides, the universal languages of love, piggy-back rides, soccer, music, smiles, hugs, handshakes and high-fives can transcend any spoken language barrier!

 

Is it safe?

Yes.  While there are always inherent dangers in traveling, especially in a foreign country, going to and staying in Ensenada is relatively low-risk.  There is a well-traveled, smooth toll road virtually the entire way from the border to Ensenada.   Food and drink is plentiful and safe…we’ll be drinking from bottled water and our hosts take care to maintain sanitary conditions when cooking.  There is crime but no more than any typical tourist city in the U.S.  The police are quite vigilant because they want to maintain a good image for tourists.  We will always take standard precautions (traveling in groups, no jewelry, etc.).

 

Is it hot? (or cold?)

Since we’re staying by the ocean, it’s about as hot as it is here in the South Bay.  However, we may be taking daily trips inland, where the temperature can be 25 degrees hotter than the coast.  Bring water bottles and a hat!

 

How can I call back home?

You can bring a cell phone, but be sure it is a dual-band, tri-mode phone that will allow for calling from Mexico (call your service provider if you’re not sure).  Otherwise, you can borrow a cell phone from another participant.  You may want to sign up for a “Calling-from-Mexico plan” if your company provides one (Sprint PCS offers one).

 

What should I wear?

Mexican society is generally more conservative in dress, and this is very true in the churches.  Guys are expected to wear nice shirts and pants, and girls are expected to wear long dresses or nice tops/skirts.  No bare shoulders, midriffs or knees.   When working, jeans and t-shirts are OK (but no plain white t-shirts).

 

How old do I have to be?

While there have been young children on teams with their parents in the past, it’s recommended that participants be at least 13 years old and have the spiritual and emotional maturity to be a good witness for Christ (and the U.S.!), work independently, interact with adults, and handle responsibilities.

 

Do I need a passport?

No, a drivers’ license is fine, but you can bring it if you’d like.  If you’re under 18, a certified copy of your birth certificate and a signed, notarized permission slip is required if you’re going without your parents.

 

Do I need to bring money?

We’ll be playing tourists on at least one day, so bring some cash for eating out and buying souvenirs.  You don’t need to exchange it for Mexican pesos; dollars are accepted just about everywhere.

 

What should  I do if I want to go?

  1. Consult with your family, friends and church leaders.
  2. Keep growing and stay fit emotionally, spiritually and physically.
  3. Clear your calendar for that week, as well as for team training meetings.
  4. Get your birth certificate or passport, if you’re a minor.
  5. Get an application packet from PVBC and return the application by May 4th along with the $25 deposit.

 

 
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