Mission trip to Matamoros, Mexico, June 28, 2008 to July 4, 2008

Ministry Description:
Culture and/or State Information
Matamoros is located on the southern bank of the Rio Grande, directly across from Brownsville, Texas. It is the largest city in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. The presence of maquiladoras, which are assembly plants run by the U.S. or other countries, accounts for a rapidly growing population as workers migrate from the interior to the border region looking for better jobs. Most will settle on a small plot of land, building a makeshift house for their family in a colonia, or neighborhood. Many will not find work or will be grossly underpaid. Because Mexico is the primary route for illegal drugs trafficked into the United States, drug-related violence has increased dramatically in the area. Local police suffer from a lack of funds and training, and the judicial system is overworked and inefficient. Matamoros has the same key sustainability challenges that are common throughout many Mexican border towns. Air pollution problems have increased with the rise of the maquiladora industry, sewage is not properly treated, there is an inadequate water supply for the number of people living there, and the obvious public security issues.

Ministry Description:
There is abundance of ministry opportunities for you just south of the border. You�ll have the chance to partner with local churches and ministries to build long-lasting relationships and improve the Matamoros community. Your team will work in local neighborhoods and farming communities to help families who survive on very little. Your day will be divided between construction, evangelism, prayer, and children�s ministry. Other ministry opportunities may include children's ministry, door to door evangelism, prayer ministry, discipleship visits, possible orphanage visit/service, sports evangelism, evening outreaches, and construction on churches or homes of the poor.

Food & Lodging
Food is prepared on site, and safe drinking water is provided. Lodging will have dorm-like conditions provided at a local training center. Air conditioning is also provided. Bedding and towels are recommended.

Recommended Prayer
- Pray that God will open up opportunities to share his love with the people of Matamoros.
- Pray that God will provide the residents of Matamoros with a sense of hope, despite their circumstances or the poverty that surrounds them.
- Pray that God will go before you and soften the hearts of those in the Matamoros community who have rejected the gospel or might be resistant to your message of hope.