Hey Expeditions team!
It’s finally time to give you a few more details about your trip! This Spring is going to be incredible. You’re going to see God do great things in you, and in the people of Africa. It will be hard at times, but know that it’s all worth it. Get excited!
Your first leg of the trip will take you to Malawi. Ministry on this trip is going to be very diverse. Sometimes you’ll be in larger cities or towns, and other times you’ll be in small, rural villages. At times you could be sleeping outside in your tent, in a hostel, or with families from church. Be prepared for anything!
General ministry you'll likely be involved in:
· House to house evangelism
· Hospital/school/prison visits
· Childrens/sports ministry (orphans, street children, etc.)
· Teaching/encouraging/discipling ministers and fellow Christians
· Church planting
· Sharing the gospel at crusades
· Teaching and worshipping at local churches
· Construction or manual labor, if there is a need
Ladies, you should dress modestly and will mostly be in dresses or skirts for ministry. They need to pass the knee. Bring at least one or two long skirts. No tight dresses or tight pants of any kind. Due to the warm climate, many people wear lighter, more casual clothes. You may be asked to cover tattoos and piercings during ministry. Please see your posted packing list for what to bring.
Cultural Norms and Sensitivities
• Greeting: For men, a handshake with the right hand is appropriate in most situations. Handshakes tend to be firm and very often linger a bit. In order to show respect, people sometimes hold their wrist with their left hand when greeting. For women greeting women, a bow or handshake is appropriate. Sometimes with other women, you can show high respect by placing your left hand on the right elbow when handshaking and bowing.
• Personal Space: Depending on what tribal or religious group you are around can depend on this, but for the most part, people tend to speak very close to each other. Generally, an arm’s length is appropriate.
• Eye Contact: It tends to be rude to make too much eye contact with elders. Women generally don’t look at men when talk to them.
As always, contact me with any questions.
Stacy Povian
[email protected]
770-983-1060 ext 321
