WORK AND WITNESS

MISKITO STRATEGY TEAM

NICARAGUA / HONDURAS

INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD

One of the exciting aspects of going on a mission trip is the chance to meet and work with Nicaraguan and Honduran Christians.  You will have the unique opportunity of getting to know and develop deep friendships with them and their families. You will experience a lifestyle and culture different from your own. No one can predict what to expect. But have nothing to fear because we know that God has promised to be with us and to supply all our needs.  You need only to have a willing and obedient heart.

BEGIN BY BEING SPIRITUALLY PREPARED

Begin to pray and enlist prayer warriors that will pray for you while you are traveling. Pray that your life will be a shining example of Christ’s love.  The forces of evil are strong in the villages: frequently the believers and missionaries are called the anti-Christ.  People are taught to be afraid of anything or anyone different.  Witchcraft and spirit worship is present in most communities.  Pray for God’s protection and that your life will shine out in the darkness around you. Study the missionary journeys and evangelistic efforts of others in the Bible.  Prepare yourself for seeing God at work.

LEARN ABOUT THE MISKITO PEOPLE

The Miskito people are a traditional indigenous people who live as subsistence farmers and fishermen in small villages of the lowland rain forest of Nicaragua and Honduras. The Miskito people live across a large area known as The Mosquito Coast (“La Mosquitia”) which is located on the northeast coast of Nicaragua and the East Coast of Honduras. This area covers over 32,500 square miles extending from the Aguan River in Honduras to the San Juan River in Nicaragua. It is made up of lowland coastal areas, savannas and rain forests. 

Two major towns of Puerto Cabezas and Puerto Lempira serve as communication centers with the outside world. Most Miskito villages are made up of 10 to 200 houses and are located along jungle river basins throughout the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua and Honduras. The Coco River (Wangki), one of the largest rivers of Central America, is considered to be the heartland of the Miskito people.

The Miskito people live in close family units in small autonomous villages. Each village has a leader who serves to settle differences. There is little sense of personal property and land is not owned or sold.   Families plant common field crops of rice, beans, and yucca and gather native grown bananas and plantains. There are government schools in larger villages and Spanish is taught after the third grade. However, because of economic hardships many children do not attend school. Health care is limited or non existent in most villages. Infant mortality is high and life expectancy is low.  

The Miskitos were originally animistic in their religious practices. In spite of several centuries of exposure to Christianity many people have retained their animistic practices. Village shamans serve as healers, diviners and exorcists. The Moravian and Catholic churches have impacted the Miskito culture, but the religious practices have resulted in syncretistic belief system which is still basically pagan.

The majority of the Miskito people have never heard an appropriate presentation of the Gospel in their heart language. The lack of scripture in the Miskito language has been a major barrier for the Gospel. Although there are several Baptist and other evangelical churches, none has had the sufficient growth or success necessary to impact the majority of the Miskito population. 

Jim and Viola Palmer are veteran Baptist missionaries of 24 years. They served for ten years in Honduras and then were the first missionaries returning to Nicaragua after the civil war, where they served for nine years.  In 1990, they began ministering to the Miskito people of the Atlantic Coast. The Palmers have worked with Work and Witness volunteers their entire missionary career. They believe that volunteers play an integral role in their ministry of sharing Christ with the Miskito people and planting churches and will allow all Miskito people to hear the Gospel.

Clint Kelly is from FBC Keller, Texas and has been working with the Miskito Strategy Team since 2004. He is an electrical engineer and has been instrumental in helping install the Baptist Radio Station  Honduras, as well as provide technical assistance and training for the radio. Clint works on both sides of the boarder assisting with team and maintenance and transportation needs.   

William and Amanda Eubank are newly appointed ISCers. They are from Augusta, Georgia. William has a BS in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Georgia and Amanda has a BS in Nursing from the Medical College of Georgia. Their first child, Liam, was born in June 2007. Their home church is Kiokee Baptist Church in Appling, GA. They live in Puerto Lempia, Honduras where they  serve as Assistant Strategy Coordinators. 

No matter what kind of ministry team you will be involved with, the purpose of this mission trip is to:

Widen your worldview and understanding of missions.

You are not a Tourist: A mission trip is not a cruise or adventure trip. Tourists are focused on themselves. They come to get their money’s worth in sights, sounds, and experiences. They want to be comfortable and have an enjoyable experience. They are interested in seeing the sites and taking home pictures and curios to brag about their trip.

You are a guest: As a guest you should be grateful and appreciative. Seek to understand as much as possible about the people and their culture. Rude behavior in the US is probably rude anywhere, for example, speaking in a loud voice, yelling or pointing at someone with your finger. You will endear yourself to people by learning and using simple phases in their language. (See last page for simple expression in Miskito) Look for opportunities to have a variety of experience with the Miskito people. They are proud of their homes and children. Bragging on their children is always a great way to make friends. Bring pictures of your family to share with your new friends.

You are part of team:  Working together we can accomplish much more. You may have a good idea but not knowing the big picture it may not be feasible. Communicate with your team leader or the missionary before making independent decisions.   As part of the body we all make a contribution, but we need to understand our limitations. Don’t cause others to wait on you and be willing to do what ever is asked of you.

You are a Missionary: The Miskito people will see you as a missionary. Act like one. You represent the Lord and you should take His example and become a servant and humbled yourself. You have come to serve and not be served.

As ambassadors for Jesus we need to be sensitive to National culture, traditions, and customs, no matter how strange they may seem to us.  We must be careful not to complain or make negative comments about national people, food, or customs.  Our actions often speak louder than our words.  When in doubt concerning the proper conduct, you should consult the missionary, the team leader, or the local pastor.

Central American Christians consider smoking and the use of alcoholic beverages inappropriate behavior. Without passing judgment, we ask all volunteers to refrain from smoking or any tobacco use and drinking alcohol while serving in volunteer missions in Nicaragua or Honduras. This is a serious issue and those who cannot refrain from tobacco use are asked not to come. Playing cards, dancing, and playing pool are all considered to be worldly activities and not appropriate Christian behavior.  Please be cautious in your conversations and do not bring playing cards. Your time will be better spent in ministry.

Tattoos are popular in the US, however in Central America tattoos are seen as tags for gangs. Police are suspicious of anyone with a tattoo. Miskito believers are puzzled by Christians who would mark on their bodies. Therefore, we ask that anyone having a tattoo please cover it up with clothing so that it not be a stumbling block for others.   

In the United States color beaded bracelets are used to evangelized. We also wear crosses and other Christian jewelry. Many Miskito people misunderstand these items.  Many think the color beaded bracelets are a way of protecting one from the evil spirits. Therefore we ask you not to bring these beaded bracelets, crosses or other Christian jewelry to give away or use in evangelism. Your personal witness is more effective.  

Bring any medication you will need with you in your carry-on on the local flight out to the Moskitia.

Immunization: No vaccinations are required to enter neither Nicaragua nor Honduras.  It is not required that shots be registered on an official yellow shot form. However you might want to put them on a 3x5 card and staple it into the back of your passport.

1. Tetanus – Booster within the last ten years.
2. Hepatitis A - Gamoglobin shot or vaccinations for hepatitis.

3. Malaria –  Cloroquine 500mg. Take one pill one week before coming and then four weeks after you return. Side effects – dizziness, taste change, sleep disturbances, and nausea. This does not prevent malaria, but only minimize symptoms.

The most likely health problem you will encounter will be traveler's diarrhea caused by unfamiliar foods and or harmful bacteria in the water and food. Diarrhea affects an estimated 20% of all travelers. According to the Journal of Internal Medicine, the safest and most effective treatment for traveler’s diarrhea is Pepto Bismol, It has been found to be very effective if you take twice the amount the first 2 doses, then carefully following the directions for its use. Imodium-AD, Lomotil, and other similar products should not be used unless Pepto-Bismol has been used in high doses for at least twelve hours. Even while taking medications for the diarrhea you should be drinking 10-12 glasses of liquid per day. Use of antibiotics to prevent traveler’s diarrhea is not recommended. If you feel a need to take an antibiotic, Doxycycline or Ciprofloxin (500 mg BID x 3 days) are the recommended drugs. The flip side of diarrhea is constipation. Because you are in an unusual situation you may not take the time necessary to prevent this problem. To prevent constipation, drink plenty of water and take the time necessary in the toilet.  Pepto Bismol will also work to help relieve constipation. 

“Be careful what you eat and drink” is common advice to travelers. Contaminated food and drink are the most common sources of infections. Careful selection and preparation of food and drink offer the best protection. Your meals will be prepared with the best precautions. To minimize the risks do not drink any water or juices from unknown sources.  Pure water will be provided.  Do not try to bring bottled water from the States. The team will be purifying water. Some people have found that taking two tablets of PeptoBismol before every meal has served well as a preventive treatment.

·         Wash hands frequently (with soap) and keep hands (and anything else like pencils) out of your mouth.

·         Drink plenty of liquids to prevent dehydration in the heat. The first sign of dehydration is a headache. So if you get a headache drink a full glass of liquid before taking something for headache. Do not drink after other people.

·         Use insect repellent at night or anytime you feel bites. Proper use of insect repellent and sleeping under mosquito nets or in tents is the best way to prevent bits. Sulfur power is one of the best repellents.

·         Wear shoes at all times. This includes the beach, use splash/surf shoes or tennis shoes.

·         Wear sunblock when out in the sun for more than a few minutes. You will be closer to the Equator and sunburns happen quickly and at a deeper level than in the U.S. You will need a brimmed hat and a bandana.

·         Don’t pet animals. Most animals are not pets.  

WEAR COMFORTABLE AND MODEST CLOTHING

Clothing is for protection not fashion. Nicaragua and Honduras are uncontrolled environments and therefore clothing is the best protection of our bodies. Bugs are abundant and not all types are detoured by insect repellant. Slight scrapes quickly become infected in the moist tropical environments. Solid shoes and long pants are the best protection while working. A long sleeve shirt is the best defense against the burning sun during the day and mosquitoes at night. (Do not bring flip-flops or other unprotected shoes for working, travel or bathing.) A good pair of walking or tennis shoes will be your best friend.  You may need a pair of work shoes (boots) as well as casual walking shoes. For bathing a strapped sandal or water shoe is best.

Lightweight Clothing: Lightweight travel clothing made of rip-stop cotton and nylon is available in most camping or adventure sports stores.  Several pants styles have zip off legs for converting them into shorts.  They are cool and comfortable in the intense heat and roll up very small, making them great for saving space. These can be hand washed out and will dry over night. You may be washing in the creek or river.

Modest Clothing: Acceptable clothing varies from culture to culture. So in order to have a good Christian witness you need to wear clothing appropriate for the Miskito culture. In the U.S., women would never show their breasts but would wear very short skirts or shorts.  The Miskito women will breast-feed or bath without tops and would think nothing of showing their breast, but would never show their thighs. Short shorts, tank tops (both sexes), halters, tops that show any part of the stomach or back, and other suggestive clothing are not appropriate. Tight fitting shorts or pants are not appropriate because they show the shape of the thigh.  Long full shorts, split skirts and culottes are acceptable.  In public, men wear long pants. In urban areas, women will wear pants while working or for informal activities.  For church services, dresses for women are required and long pants for men. You should dress modestly to provide a good Christian testimony.  Backless blouses or spaghetti straps are not appropriate.

Bathing: In many cases you will be bathing in creeks or river, you will need a modest pair of shorts (men) and shorts and modest tank top (women). Women should NOT wear a swimsuit.

Hats: Even if you are not use to wearing a hat, bring one for protection against the sun and dust.

You will make friends this week with a variety of people.  Your heart will be touched by the needs you see.  Many people from the church will help the mission efforts. There will also be non-Christians interested in the church that will be helping.  These relationships will be a very precious part of your experience. We ask you to NOT give anything away. There are two reasons for this.

1. Giving things away can cause jealousy and dissention.
2. Giving things away sends the wrong message: that material things are most important. We want to share Christ as the hope for the Miskito people.

At the end of the week the team as a whole can leave clothing and other items with the church leaders and it will be distributed to the needy as a ministry of the church. Do not give anything away or make promises with out checking first with the missionary or team leader.

You must be very cautious in how you say good-bye. A casual phrase used in the United States, “if you are ever in Texas come by and see me” is taken as an invitation and the a person doing the inviting also pays all the bills.  So it may be interpreted to mean that you are inviting them and you will pay all expenses of a 2-3 month visit including the plane fares! Please, do NOT make promises of taking people to the United States.  You do not know the U.S. Immigration Laws and it is easier to make promises in the midst of a loving week relationship than to keep that promise after returning to your normal life and facing the bureaucracy and immigration laws.

      “God bless you and keep you.”

      “I will be praying for you and your family.”

      “We will see each other again some day in heaven, and be able to talk freely without the

      “I hope to see you next year when our team comes again, until then stay strong in the faith”  

Do not give out your phone number or address. It is an invitation to accept long-distance collect phone calls at any hour and receive letters with requests for personal financial assistance.  When you ask people to write you a letter it might be interpreted to mean you are telling them to write you a letter requesting financial assistance. 

Most of our churches clap as they sing. In some churches all members pray out loud at the same time. All prayers and scripture reading is done standing. Be prepared to follow the accepted routine of that church. Services are usually one and a half or two hours long. There is always lots of singing.

You may be asked to share a greeting from your home church or to give a word of testimony. The time of special music is usually a major part of the church service. Most churches expect you as a group to sing a special.  If there are individuals who feel comfortable singing a solo you will be welcomed to do so. Remember musical ability is NOT a requirement or expected.   If you are there on a Sunday morning, someone from your group may be expected to teach Sunday School. If someone is willing to preach they will certainly have the opportunity. All team members are expected to attend all church services. The Lord’s Supper may be served while you are in Nicaragua or Honduras. All baptized believers are invited to participate. 

PACK WISELY

You will need some money for souvenirs or snacks. Bring only US dollars in small bills ($20, $10, $5, and $1).  Only bills that are clear of any ink marks or any tears will be accepted. Traveler’s checks or credit card are not accepted in this area. All your other expenses will be covered by the team.

Carry at least one change of clothes and your medications in your carry-on. No piece may weigh more than 50 lbs. Frequently airlines will not accept card board boxes or certain size trunks, so check with airline first.  In most cases, each team member will be limited to one piece and the additional piece will be used for team supplies.

Your luggage will be rechecked on the flight from Managua to Puerto Cabezas or San Pedro Sula to Puerto Lempira.  Your checked luggage may might NOT arrive with you in Puerto Cabezas or Puerto Lempira. Therefore, you must have in your hands (on your lap) your small carry-on or backpack with a change of clothes to work in and clothes for church and any personal items you will need for 2 days.  

Direct-dial emergency number to leave with family in the US: 011-505-834-4873 or 011-505-834-4874.  You will have NO way to call your family while you are out on the project.  Please do not promise them that you will call to let them know you made it safely. Work on the policy that No News is Good News.

PRACTICE SAFETY

It is as safe to travel in Nicaragua or Honduras as it is in the United States. Of course there are certain precautions to be taken.  A potentially wonderful and rewarding experience can become disappointing for everyone if we don't follow some well proven, common-sense precautions for everyone's safety and the security of personal belongings.

1. Use the "Buddy system" and never go anywhere alone in an airport, hotel, streets around the church, or on the work site.  Always tell the designated leader where you are going and when you expect to return.

2. Reduce the risk of being a pickpocket's victim by placing your wallet in a front pocket or a fanny pack carried in front.  Don't take or wear expensive wristwatches or other jewelry.  Be careful in crowds where people are likely to bump into you.

BE PREPARED MENTALLY

DON'T expect to have a flush toilet.

DON'T expect to have electricity.

DON'T expect to take a shower every day.

DON'T expect to have beds like those in your home.

DON’T expect gourmet cooking.

DO expect a simpler lifestyle, which focuses on the value of people and relationships.    

DO expect that God will use this experience to cause you to re-evaluate your priorities and your relationship with Him.

DO expect that God will use you and the team to encourage Nicaraguan or Honduran Christians, their families and their churches, and to share Jesus with non-believers.

This is a general list of item you will want to consider when packing. Not everything is necessary for every person. However it should help you focus on your personal needs.  

___ Tickets and itinerary, valid passport (not less than 6 months on expiration date)

___ Shot record (if available stapled inside the back cover of passport) but not necessary

___ Emergency contact information for family

___ Photocopy of picture page of passport in case of loss

___ Cash ($20 bills plus a few $1 and $5) and Credit Card for emergency

___ At least 1pair casual cotton pants (men) and 1 casual skirt and blouse or dress (women) for church

___ Work pants or scrubs (women may wear culottes or pants)

___ Shirts (polo style or tee shirts for men) (sleeved blouses or tee shirts for women)

___ Modest shorts and tee shirt (women) for bathing

___ Tivas or water shoes for bathing (no flip-flops)

___ Men: shaving kit, Women: hair care and hygiene supplies

___ Soap, deodorant and shampoo (non scented for bugs)

___ Insect repellant with DEET 20%+

EQUIPMENT AND PERSONAL ITEMS

            Medical instruments

            Carpentry hammer, tape, work gloves

___ Flashlight and extra batteries

___ Small Bible or New Testament, Notebook / journal / stationery / pen

___ Personal drinking “sports” bottle

NOTES: Leave expensive jewelry and watches at home. Do not bring camouflage (military style) clothing. Leave all non-essential wallet items and misc. credit cards at home. Women should try to bring the minimal amount a makeup if any. Let your natural beauty radiant!

ØCome spiritually prepared, ready for God to use you as a blessing to others.

ØYou are a missionary this week, act like a representative of the King.

ØTake time to learn about the Miskito people.

ØActions speak louder than words:

·                                refrain from use of tobacco, alcohol, playing cards, or anything that might be seen as gambling,

·                                refrain from references to dancing or playing pool that might be misunderstood,

·                                refrain from the use of Christian jewelry that might be seen as amulets,

·                                cover up tattoos or body piercing.  

ØBe in good health (have any medications in your carry-on)

ØWear shoes at all times (no flip-flops or other open-toe shoes). Water shoes are fine for bathing). Use sun block and wear a hat.

ØBring a flashlight and batteries

ØBring a personal drinking “sports” bottle

ØDo not wear:

·        Short shorts or tank tops (both sexes)      

·        Backless blouses or spaghetti-strapped tops      

·        Halters or any top that shows the abdomen or back

·        Women do not wear a swimsuit for bathing

·        Men no camouflage-patterned clothing (military styling)

WOMEN: bring a dress or skirt and blouse for church services.

BRING CHANGE OF CLOTHING, PERSONAL MEDS, AND CHURCH CLOTHING IN CARRY-ON; YOU MAY NOT GET YOUY LUGGAGE TILL THE NEXT DAY.

DO NOT make promises or give out your address nor telephone number

BE PREPARED to share your testimony; have it ready, written or memorized.

I have read the information entitled “WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO”. I agree to the principles outlined and to the best of my ability commit to follow the instructions so that I might be an effective witness for Christ.*

* Sign and date this page; give it to your team leader before you come.