Mission trip to Costa Rica, Central America, August 1, 2010 to August 9, 2010

Ministry Description:
Culture and/or State Information
Situated in the Central American isthmus, Costa Rica is bordered by Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south. Relatively small, Costa Rica is only about the size of Vermont and New Hampshire combined. Blessed with a diversity of plant and animal life, the area is an eco-tourist�s dream. This rapidly developing country is one of the most stable, as well as most visited, regions in Central America.

There�s another side to Costa Rica that can be found in the slums of San Jose or the remote villages of the river basins. A staggering number of outcast Nicaraguan refugees scrape out a life on the fringes of society. Indigenous groups lack even basic education and health care. Families have abandoned self-sufficient farming lifestyles for opportunity in the cities, hoping to participate in the flood of tourist driven prosperity. Crime has become an increasing concern for Costa Ricans and visitors alike. It�s a time of change in culture for the country. For those elevated by foreign investment, traditional mores and lifestyles are giving way to the modern, consumer oriented world. For those left behind, the new realities offer few redeeming comforts.

Ministry Description:
In the midst of this, the church in Costa Rica is reaching out to bring hope and balance to the lives of its people. Many of the poorer areas of Costa Rica have towns and villages with little or no gospel presence. Your group will be involved in fortifying existing churches in these towns and working alongside local laborers to plant churches in areas that have not had access to God�s word.

You'll have opportunities to work with the local church to provide training and encouragement to its members. Other possible ministry opportunities include street and sports outreaches, evangelistic mimes and dramas, children's ministry, door-to-door evangelism, and prayer
ministry.

Food & Lodging
Meals will be provided by locals. Expect rustic lodging with limited showers. Plan to bring all bedding and possibly air mattresses.

Recommended Prayer
- Pray that God would show favor to the Costa Rican people, that they would be blessed and encouraged by the growth of their nation
- Pray for peace and tolerance between the diverse cultures on the island.
- Pray that God will open up opportunities to share his love with the Costa Rican people

Costa Rica, Central America Mission Trip