2 pre departure packet

Latin America Assistance, Inc | P.O. Box 123. ��Solvang, California 93464-0123

Email: [email protected] | Tel: (800) 925-6359 or (805) 693-9222

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La Montaña Christian Camps Short Term Missions Teams

Leader & Participant Pre-Departure Packet 2 0 1 3



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Dear Team Leader & Participant,

Thank you for deciding to bring a team to Costa Rica with La Montaña Camps! We are excited that you will be with us and we are looking forward to hosting you and working alongside with you. There may be aspects of preparation that you may not know how to tackle or you may simply have questions about how to get started and your team started. This booklet is a beginning and is designed to help you in those areas. We strive to provide all we can for you in the planning and preparation process and are available by phone and email to help you along! We feel a strong sense of responsibility toward our staff and campers in Costa Rica. Our goal is to work with youth to win and disciple them into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Over all, teams that come to us in Costa Rica have a reputation of helping us and being a part of this amazing ministry. Both our staff, local Costa Rican churches, and schools are tremendously blessed. People come to Christ, and grow themselves, their churches, and their communities as a result of the ministry of teens just like yours. However rare, groups may come unprepared or without the proper priorities. These teams can do more damage than good. We are excited to be able to give your people the opportunity to partner with us and enjoy this wonderful camp experience, but we don’t want to do that at the expense of our campers and staff, our brothers and sisters in Costa Rica. Please read over and fill out the required documents at the end of this booklet. Outlined in the Participant Agreement From are the expectations we have for you as a team leader and participant during your time with us. Please initial them as you understand and agree with them and then sign at the bottom. Also, we will need your liability waiver and Medical Information and Release Form before you leave. If you have any questions, concerns, or questions that it does not answer, please feel free to call us!

Thank you again for planning to come to Costa Rica with us. We will be thrilled to have you with us and trust that God will use you to further His Kingdom! Liz Weisenburger, MA Short Term Program Coordinator



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Table of Contents

Section 1: Preparing for your time in Costa Rica Section 2: Travel Logistics Section 3: Fundraising Section 4: Culture Preparation Section 5: Preparing for Your Time at Camp Section 6: Frequently Asked Questions Section 7: Required Forms to be Signed



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Section 1| Preparing for your Time in Costa Rica 7 weeks before trip

If you don’t have a passport, apply for or renew passport (must be valid for six months past the date of your return). Passport information can be found at www.travel.state.gov. Applications will normally take at least 30 business days.

Make flight arrangements & email your team leader your airline itinerary. They

will send this to us at the LAMA office.

Start fund-‐raising efforts, individually and with your team. 6 weeks before trip

Begin praying for your trip and the work you will do there, your team members and your leaders. Ask the Lord to prepare your heart as you prepare to participate and serve others at La Montaña Christian Camp.

Ask your church how they might support you and help you share with your

congregation about the journey you are about to embark on.

Turn in initial deposit to ($50) payable to “LAMA”, and mail to Latin America Assistance, PO Box 123, Solvang, CA 93464. Please write your name in the memo of the check if not written on the check.

Turn in all liability waivers & signed forms to your Team Leader (at back of this info

packet). Check the due date when these forms are due. 5 weeks before trip

Gather at least 3 prayer supporters & meet with them for prayer.

Make yourself available for planning/training times with team leaders & members.



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4 weeks before trip

Photocopy passport and hand to your team leader.

Ask the Lord to prepare your heart for your work project and/or outreach at the camp and begin praying daily for your trip.

3 weeks before trip

Prepare for your personal costs – food/snacks on trip, souvenirs/gifts, camera batteries, and miscellaneous activities you will be responsible to pay for.

2 weeks before trip

Purchase a small notebook to take with you on your trip for journaling 1 week before trip

Write thank you notes to your prayer partners and financial supporters.

Mail your remaining trip balance, payable to “LAMA” to Latin America Assistnace: PO Box 123. Solvang, CA 93464-‐0123)



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Section 2| Travel Logistics

Itinerary

Trip Leaders: Several weeks before the trip, prepare an itinerary for your trip and give it to your team members. Make sure team members understand that things could change and they need to be flexible.

Your itinerary should include:

Flight information -‐ include airline, flight number, departure and arrival times Notes about luggage allowance. A general rule of thumb is one piece checked in (50

lbs maximum) and one carried on. (Contact your travel agent or airline to confirm weight and size restrictions on luggage, as well as security restrictions.)

Expected plans for each day (prepare your team for unexpected changes) Lodging and contact information (if available) Time zone differences (Costa Rica is on Central Standart Time) Notes about exchanging money Last minute packing instructions (necessary bedding, etc.)

Passports

For entry into Costa Rica, you must present a valid passport that will not expire for at least three months after arrival and a round-‐trip / outbound ticket. Because of possible fines levied by Costa Rican Immigration, many airlines will not permit passengers without a round-‐trip ticket to board flights to Costa Rica unless they have Costa Rican citizenship, residency or a visa. There is a departure tax of $26 USD for visitors.

Passports should be in good condition; Costa Rican Immigration may deny entry if the passport is damaged in any way. Costa Rican authorities generally permit U.S. citizens to stay up to ninety days.

If you do not have current passports, have them begin the application process immediately. If they currently have passports, have them check the expiration date. Some countries require passports to be valid six months after your return to the U.S. If a passport will expire within six months after your anticipated return, have them renew their passport as soon as possible.

Passport applications and information can be found at www.travel.state.gov. Applicants usually receive passports in the mail within 30 days. Leaders: We recommend that you carry photocopies of each team member’s passport with you, in the event the passport is lost or stolen. (Keep the photocopies in a different location than the passport!)



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Register with the Smart Traveller Enrollment Program The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country. STEP allows you to enter information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency. If you enroll, the US Embassy in Costa Rica can keep you up to date with important safety and security announcements. It will also help your friends and family get in touch with you in an emergency. We encourage all groups travelling with us to enroll. The Website is: https://travelregistration.state.gov/ibrs/ui/

The US Embassy in Costa Rica The Embassy is located in Pavas, San Jose, and may be reached at (506) 2519-‐2000; the extension for the Consular Section is 2188. The Embassy is open Monday through Friday but is closed on Costa Rican and U.S. federal holidays. We strongly encourage those seeking information to use the Embassy website. For emergencies arising outside of normal business hours, U.S. citizens may call (506) 2220-‐3127 and ask for the duty officer.

Money The unit of currency in Costa Rica is called the colón, which is divided into one hundred céntimos. Sometimes the colón is called a peso. Costa Rica's currency in recent times has experienced bouts of instability. Currently, the has an annual devaluation rate of about 8 percent, and US$1 equals about 350 colónes

Changing Money Always remember to bring your personal identification and passport. As the colón does not often exchange at a favorable rate outside of Costa Rica, we recommend that our short-‐term teams exchange money upon arrival at the airport money counters in San Jose. Credit Cards Credit cards are a viable method of payment in Costa Rica. Visa and Master Card are widely accepted. American Express is also accepted, though not as readily. Your credit card should be accepted at most large inns and restaurants, but smaller family-‐run establishments may not have the capability. The bank rate of exchange on the date of the transaction will be applied. In addition, a 6% surcharge is common for each credit card transactions. ATM Machines ATMs are most abundant in urban areas, but can be found throughout Costa Rica.



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Travel and Packing Tips

Be sure to check with the airline to find out the luggage allowances and packing restrictions. It is important for you to know these limits well ahead of time so you can pack accordingly.

Don’t take anything that you really don’t want to lose (such as an expensive watch or jewelry).

Clearly label all pieces of luggage with your name, address (including U.S.A.), and

telephone number. You can get free labels at the ticket counter in the airport.

Consider tying a colored ribbon/yarn on the handle of your suitcase to make it easy to identify at baggage claim.

Empty your wallet. Take your driver’s license, passport, health insurance card,

and just enough cash for the trip.

Leave your Social Security card at home.

Put all liquids (shampoo, lotion, etc.) in Ziploc Baggies to prevent them from leaking in your suitcase

Don’t take clothes that need special care or ironing.

Carry an extra set of clothes and some personal items in your carry-‐on backpack,

in case your suitcase is lost or delayed.

You might find it helpful to carry a few small snacks with you, such as granola bars or other dry snacks, particularly on long travel days.

Take your camera with you but plan to have your pictures printed when you

return. Your photos will cost less and be of better quality that way.

Take pictures along of yourself and/or your family to show to new friends you meet.

If you carry a backpack with valuables in it, carry it in front of you for added

safety.

Review packing list on next page.



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Packing List In your Carry-‐on

Passport Drivers License Airline tickets Copies of all the above documents U.S. dollars in small denominations

In your Packed Luggage

Backpack Hat with brim Comfortable walking tennis

shoes and flip-‐flops, work shoes for those doing work projects

Lightweight raincoat/windbreaker with hood or umbrella

Aspirin or other over the counter pain-‐reliever

Insect repellent w/deet Sunscreen (SPF 30 and up) Sunglasses Refillable Water Bottle Flashlight & extra batteries Watch (phones will stay in your

room) Bible Journal to Write in Several pens/pencils Toiletries Washcloth Sham Wow or Bath towel

Flat & Fitted Twin Sheets, Pillow & Light Blanket

Long pants Short-‐sleeved T-‐shirts Pajamas Bathing Suit (Girls /Women-‐ one-‐piece or

tankini that does not show belly) (Boys /Men -‐ swim trunks

without rivets) Beach Towel Underwear Socks Sweatshirt Mud Clothes & Shoes (that you

can throw away) Work gloves Granola bars or energy snacks Nighttime room snacks Baggies to keep room snacks

crisp/dry Again, a copy of all of your travel

documents (Leave a copy at home with your family, also)



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Section 3| Fundraising* Raising financial support to go on a mission trip can be somewhat daunting. However, thousands who have raised support, have had the privilege of seeing God provide for their needs in ways they would have previously never imagined. This process will cause you to trust God in ways you haven’t had to before and enable you to grow in knowing God as a provider for all of your needs (Philippians 4:19). As you prepare for the challenge of raising your financial support, getting time off work, and getting the support of family and friends, Christ promises that He is with us and will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). So be encouraged that Christ will be with you as you plan, pray, prepare, raise your support, and go! He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine (Eph. 3:20). Biblical Basis to Fundraising All through the Old Testament, the Levites were supported by the other tribes of Israel (Numbers 18:21; Deuteronomy 14:27). In the New Testament there are many examples of support raising. Jesus taught, “the laborer is worthy of his wages” (Luke 10:7). Paul compliments the Philippians for giving (Philippians 4:14,16). He also says, “that those who preach the gospel should receive their living from the gospel.” (1 Cor. 9:14). 3 John 7, 8 states, “For they went out for the sake of the Name, accepting nothing from the Gentiles. Therefore we ought to support such men.”

Benefits to those partnering with you People want to invest their money in things that yield a high return. Giving to

your trip enables someone to invest his or her money eternally where no person or circumstance can take it away (Mt. 6:19-‐21). You’re giving someone an opportunity to invest his or her money eternally.

God has promised to bless them as they give of their financial resources (Malachi 3:10; II Corinthians 9:6; Luke 6:38).

Supporting you will allow individuals to personalize their giving. They will know how their money is being spent and see their investment pay off.

A person’s heart naturally follows where they invest their money (Mt. 6:19-‐21). By asking someone to support you, you’re giving them an opportunity to develop a deeper love for people in global cities and God’s work in and through his church.

People will be challenged to consider going on a mission trip themselves. They will also learn about other global countries through you and be challenged to use their resources to further God’s Kingdom in the states and beyond.

In the apostle Paul's mind, supporting God's work was an honor and privilege. "For I testify that according to their ability, and beyond their ability they gave of their own accord, begging us again and again for the favor of participation in the support of the saints..." (II Cor. 8:3,4).

* Adapted from Redeemer Presbyterian Church, New York City, NY: Missions Manual on Fundraising



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Benefits to You

Your relationship with God will be enriched as you pray and trust God to supply your needs.

You will develop a prayer base for yourself, as well as for the overseas destination where you will be serving.

You will be accountable to those that invest in your life, as you believe God to do great things in and through you as a result of your participation on the trip.

Raising support is Biblical. Both the Old and the New Testament support the concept of financial giving to support the work of the Lord. 1 Timothy 5:18 says, "A laborer is worthy of his wages". 1 Corinthians 9:14 sums up several verses referring to financial support by saying, "So also the Lord directed those who proclaim the gospel to get their living from the gospel". Also see II Corinthians 8,9; Philippians 4; and Malachi 3:10.

Fun Fundraising Ideas Depending on your situation, you might choose to raise money by yourself or with another member of the intern team, dividing the support raised among the team members. Either way, consider asking one of the team members or another volunteer from your congregation to assist you in organizing these events. As a team, brainstorm some creative ideas, prioritize them, and set dates for the top fundraising activities. The best way to develop a fund-‐raiser is to simply look at tons of ideas and run with the one that jumps out at you, as “that is something I could do!” Here are some ideas to get you started

Garage Sale -‐ Anyone could donate items, all profits go to your trip. Car Wash – Consider selling tickets beforehand . Two-‐by-‐Two Yard work – Serve in pairs and do an hour or two of yard work for a

donation. Virtual Sub Sale -‐ Take orders & payment and make & deliver submarine

sandwiches to their door. Traditional Bake Sale Coffee Sales -‐ check out www.justlovecoffee.com/theshipleys Restaurant Profits -‐ Some restaurants will donate a portion of their sales during an

assigned time to your non-‐profit. (Chick-‐filet, Wahoos, Rubio’s, Dairy Queen, etc.…)

Fundraising Dinner -‐ Spaghetti or Chili are the cheapest & easiest. Charge them to eat, but make sure you take time to tell your guests all about this mission. It’s likely you may get more donations that way. You can also do a Silent Auction at this event with items donated from family members.

Bunco Night -‐ Each person comes with a $25 donation. Your host donates food & drink, and items that they can win at the end of the night.



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How to Develop Financial Support Individually

The following support raising strategy can be summarized in four words:

1. Namestorm

2. Write

3. Call 4. Thanks

1. Namestorm Start by developing an initial list of potential ministry partners. As with brainstorming, in namestorming there is one cardinal rule-‐-‐anything goes. No name is unqualified. Don’t decide for an individual whether or not he or she is interested. If you limit yourself to those you feel will or can give, you may prematurely disqualify those whom God wants to become ministry partners. Later you will need to prioritize whom to contact first, but for now, don’t disqualify anyone. You may be thinking you could never generate more than a handful of names, but research has shown the average individual has a personal network of at least 400 friends and acquaintances. So, you should easily be able to develop a list of at least 25 potential ministry partners. Pray and push yourself...see if you can come up with at least 75-‐100 names.

After taking time for free-‐wheeling namestorming, label each name in priority as either “ML” for most likely, “L” for likely, and “LL” for least likely. These designations refer to your evaluation of how likely they are to give. Start by contacting your most likely people first, and then work through your likely and then least likely people. 2. Write You can use the sample letter on the next page for your letters. You will simply need to adjust the info to fit what you will be doing at La Montana and how God has led you to making this decision. Your letter should be kept to one page or less.

1. Give your letter a specific date.



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2. Bring your reader up to date on what you’re doing. 3. Educate your reader. Share how you became interested in this trip and why you feel it would be beneficial to go. 4. Explain your need. The purpose of your letter is to give your reader an opportunity to help. Make sure you explain exactly what you need. 5. Involve your reader by asking him for specific action, based on the needs you have shared. This can include challenging them to help cover part or all of the cost of your trip. State the deadline by which you need the money. 6. Again, offer thanks, appreciation & gratitude. 7. Close the letter and sign it.



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(sample support letter) January 15th, 2013 Dear Rene, I hope this letter finds you well and that your recent trip out west was productive. I’ve been busy with work as usual and have also been training for the half marathon next month. Three others from my office are running it with me. I’ve always appreciated your desire to give back to society in a meaningful way. I wanted to share with you a unique opportunity I have to serve the youth of Costa Rica at La Montaña Christian Camp. This summer a group of _________ people are going to La Montaña Christian Camps (www.lamontana.org) to work alongside the camp staff (Sponsor Team) / to work on ___________ (Construction Project for Work Teams). Did you know that almost 60% of the Latin Population consists of youth, age 18 and under and that a camping experience has been shown to be one of the most effective ways of ministering the gospel to kids? Since 2001, La Montaña Christian camps has had over 80,000 Latin youth come through their camp and have been impacted by the Good News, taking it back to their schools and communities. As great as this sounds, I cannot do it alone. I need your help. Like other service oriented projects, our team has to raise our own financial support to cover the cost of the trip. The total cost of the trip including airfare, hotel accommodations, food and materials is $2,000. I wanted to contact you to let you know about the trip and ask you to consider being a partner with me as we seek to serve the new church and invest into the lives of the youth of Costa Rica. Would you consider donating $25, $50, $100, $200, $300 or some other amount? I would appreciate whatever financial support you feel led to give. Contributions are tax-‐deductible and can be made payable to Latin America Assistance and can be mailed to PO Box 123. Solvang, CA 936464-‐0123. We leave on ______ and return to ______ on _________. All donations need to be received no later than _______________. Please feel free to contact me via email or by phone at [email protected] or (555) 555-‐5555 with any questions. Thank you so much for considering this opportunity. Sincerely, Your Signature P.S. “I’ll try to call you in the next week to see if you have any questions.” (handwritten if sent via regular U.S. mail).”



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3. Call The degree of your success in the letter-‐writing strategy sometimes depends on your follow-‐up phone call. The follow-‐up phone call is critical for three reasons:

1. Most people suffer from information overload. Consequently, mail and e-‐mail is easy to ignore or forget. 2. Your time frame. A follow-‐up phone call will help you get decisions as quickly as possible. The best suggestion is to call one week after you’ve dropped the letter in the mail. 3. Courtesy to your ministry partners. Many people will want to help you but won’t unless you call to answer any questions and to get their decision. Your phone call takes the burden of response off them and puts it on you.

(sample phone call)

1. Introduce yourself. “Hello, Mr. ________. This is _________ calling. How are you?” Let them respond. Take a few moments to establish rapport, but be brief. 2. Refer to your letter and explain your summer plans. “As I mentioned in my letter, I am planning to go to Costa Rica to help at a youth camp by using by background in ministry, construction,etc.” 3. Share what you hope to see God do as a result of your time this summer. 4. Be very specific to ask for a definite response.

• “In my letter I asked if you would be in a position to support me financially for this mission trip. Have you had a chance to think about that?” (wait) • Be sure they know the date you need the donation by. • If you arrange to have them send you a check and it doesn’t come or if they plan to give online and they don’t, you will need to follow up with a phone call to see what happened (e.g. check lost in mail, etc.)

** When you call, if your potential ministry partner has not made a decision, set another time to call within a day or two.



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4. Thank Send a thank-‐you note the same day the ministry partner gives you her decision. Be sure to keep a record of this so you’ll know to whom you’ve sent one and so you’ll not send two to the same person. This thank-‐you letter is an important part of developing a relationship with your ministry partner. This should be a personal, handwritten note or letter. Do not print or copy a form letter. Always include something personal in your note to show specifically how you and Christ’s cause have been benefited by their generosity. You owe them a good thank-‐you note. Send a newsletter / thank you note out within two weeks of returning from the trip. Let your supporters know what you did through stories and pictures.

(sample thank you note) February 10th, 2008 Dear Dr. and Mrs. Smith, Thank you for your gift of $100 to support my ministry this summer. Your prayers and finances are greatly appreciated. Your investment will have far-‐reaching results as I serve young people in Costa Rica and seek to see the Gospel transform the lives of individuals and their communities. Please join me in praying that God would continually deepen my understanding of God’s love and for our upcoming trip. Thanks again for your help. In Christ, Your Signature



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Section 4| Culture Preparation More than one million people participate in short-‐term mission projects outside of North America every year-‐-‐and millions more are involved in domestic cross-‐cultural missions right here at home. This is encouraging news. But the work is not done. There are weaknesses in our approach and practice. And these volunteers need resources to help them prepare for effective cross-‐cultural engagement. Your Team will consist of people with varying levels of cross-‐cultural experience, and who will have a variety of experiences adapting to La Montaña & Costa Rica. We are in the process of developing our short term missions cultural preparation materials. In the meantime here is some good guidance: The Importance of Attitude The most important thing to bring to La Montaña Christian Camp is a positive attitude with teachable spirit and a servant’s heart. The attitude you carry will be adopted by your team members. Therefore, it is important to set a positive example and encourage sensitivity and perseverance in adjusting to the new culture.

Learning What You Can About Costa Rica

The more you understand about a host country’s culture, the more effective you will be in relating to your hosts. Thanks to the vast amount of information available today, you can gain a great deal of understanding about the place you will visit, and with that information begin adjusting yourself personally to enter the culture.

As you research and study the following areas, look for ways to creatively impact your host culture with the message of Jesus Christ. Utilize nationals from the host culture, the internet, and resources such as Operation World, travel brochures, and periodicals. Specific areas to research are listed below.

We also encourage you to help your team learn about the location you are going to by doing the following:

• Visit the local library as a team to research the culture.

• Search the internet (try sites such as Lonely Planet, Frommers, Operation World, and others).

• Invite an experienced missionary who served in the region to spend an evening



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with your team.

• Have a theme night (make an ethnic meal, watch a video that relates to your location).

• Learn some basis phrases in the language used where you are going.

• Divide your team into small groups, assign them one of the areas listed below, and have a reporting night. Encourage them to present the information creatively:

o Dress as a person from the country

o Bring in a map

o Make up questions about the topic and have the group play “Jeopardy” to answer them

o Do a short skit or drama

Suggested Reading: We highly recommend: Serving with Eyes Wide Open by David A Livermore Serving with Eyes Wide Open helps Christians understand the changing face of Christianity and how that affects short-‐term missions. In three parts, author David A. Livermore will take a broad look at what the twenty-‐first-‐century church is doing on the mission field, the assumptions people make about Christianity, and what it takes to adapt effectively to new cultural contexts. Perfect for all who engage in short-‐term missions trips-‐-‐either at home or abroad-‐-‐Serving with Eyes Wide Open will equip readers to serve more sensitively.



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Costa Rica at A Glance† Area -‐ 50,895 square kilometers Capital -‐ San Jose (pop. 300,000) Population -‐ 4,500,000 Language -‐ Spanish Location -‐ Central American between Nicaragua and Panama Currency -‐ Colon (Floats, currently $1 US = about 580) Religion -‐ More than 90 percent of Costa Ricans are Roman Catholic. Costa Rica, a small Central American country of 20,000 square miles, about the size of West Virginia, has a population of 4.5 million. Costa Rica is demographically comprised of 60-‐70% young people. Like it’s Latin neighbors, it is a region exploding with youth. The official language is Spanish, although English is widely spoken. The climate in the highlands is moderate, while in the lowlands and coastal areas it ranges from the high 70’s to the 90’s. The many areas of Costa Rica reveal the tremendous diversity and brilliance of the country’s rich tropical setting. It is home to three volcanic mountain ranges, 9 active volcanos, Pacific and Carribean coastlines and numerous rainforests. Costa Rica is a multi-‐party democracy with over 400 years of unbroken peace, and the “Ticos” are characterized by genuine friendliness and national pride.

Pura Vida

Pura Vida literally means Pura = pure and vida = life, but "Pure life" in Spanish would be "Vida pura" instead, so the real meaning is closer to "plenty of life", "full of life", "this is living!", "going great", "real living", "Awesome!" or "cool!". It can be used both as a greeting or a farewell, universally known in Costa Rica and it has been used by many Costa Ricans (and expatriates) since 1956. Education

Education is highly regarded in Costa Rica by most of the population. About 6% of the country's gross domestic product is dedicated to education,[8] which has produced positive results as 96% of the population is literate. Primary (1st-‐6th grade) and secondary (7th-‐11th or 12th) are mandatory for all citizens. Public schools are free, and those who can afford it often opt to send their children to private institutions.

The country has six major public universities: the University of Costa Rica (UCR), the Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica (ITCR), the Universidad Nacional (UNA), the Universidad Técnica Nacional, the Universidad Para La Paz, and the Universidad de Educacion a Distancia (UNED).

† Taken from Wikipedia “Costa Rica Culture” http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Costa_Rica



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Cuisine

Costa Rican cuisine is a combination of Spanish, American, Caribbean, and South American influences. This style of cuisine is shared by most of Central America, although local variations have appeared in each of the countries.

One national dish is gallo pinto ("spotted rooster"), although the name has no relation to the ingredients. It is a combination of black beans and white rice, spiced with cilantro, onions, garlic, salt, and a local condiment called Salsa Lizano. It is typically eaten at breakfast with eggs, and sometimes natilla (sour cream). Fried plantains and either corn tortillas or bread are also common. Gallo pinto is a common and typical dish in both Costa Rica and Nicaragua.

Other typical dishes are arroz con pollo, olla de carne, tamales, and casado. Arroz con pollo (rice with chicken) consists of bite size chicken chunks mixed with rice and diced vegetables that include carrots, peas, corn, and garbanzo beans. Olla de carne is mainly prepared on weekends.[citation needed] It is a broth of corn prepared by boiling water, meat, and whole-‐to large sized vegetable pieces with spices. The soup is eaten in a bowl with the broth and separate plates for the vegetables and rice. A casado is a one-‐plate meal that includes black beans, rice, meat, fried plantains, and one or more side dishes. The meat can vary from chicken, beef, or fish. Some examples of side dishes are pasta salad, vegetable salad, fried eggs, potatoes, spaghetti, or barbudos (green beans wrapped in egg batter).

There are some regional differences. For example, the Caribbean side of the country, because of its roots, has gallo pinto with coconut milk, while the north-‐western part of the country has a strong tendency towards corn products and for large, cheese filled tortillas, corn snacks, and other dishes. Catholicism in Latin America Catholicism is by far the dominant religion in Latin America. In 1977, 90% of the people in Latin America were Catholics. However, evangelicals are making inroads. By 1998 that figure had dropped to 88%. Evangelicals in Latin America have grown from 50,000 in 1990 to 64 million in 1997. According to the Latin American Catholic Bishop’s Conference, an estimated eight thousand people in Latin America turn from Catholicism to Evangelicalism every day. La Montaña Christian Camps Approach to Working with the Catholic and Protestant Churches We strive to teach and model a biblically based theology and to mature in our Christian faith and understanding of God and His word in a community of grace. (For More information, see our statement of faith on our website: www.lamontana.org)



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By virtue of it’s history with the Spanish, Costa Rica is a predominantly Catholic nation. Approximately 76% of the total population is Catholic, numbering 3.2 million Costa Ricans. As non-‐denominational evangelical para church organizations, LAMA and it's ministry, La Montaña Christian Camps, takes an ecumenical approach to working with both Catholic and Evangelical Protestant churches, enabling us to ever-‐expand our reach for Jesus, and holds to the following:

• The belief that Christ is head of the Church (Colossians 1:18-‐ Christ is the head of the body, the church; Christ is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything Christ might be preeminent.)

• Submitting to Christ’s priestly prayer for the unity of all believers. (John 17: 20-‐

23 20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.in John 17, for the unity of all believers.)

• The historic Christian faith expressed in all the historic creeds of the universal

church (e.g., the Apostles and Nicene Creeds), “catholic,” catholic literally meaning the universal Christian church-‐-‐all believers in Jesus Christ.



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1 CORINTHIANS 13: A guide to adapting to a new culture

(A missionary’s adaption of what 1 Corinthians 13 says to him) If I speak with the tongue of a national, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I wear the national dress and understand the culture and all forms of etiquette, and if I copy all mannerisms so that I could pass for a national, but have not love, I gain nothing. Love endures long hours of language study, and is kind to those who mock its accent; Love does not envy those who stayed home; love does not exalt its home culture, is not proud of its national superiority. Does not boast about the way we do it back home, does not seek its own ways, it is not easily provoked into telling about the beauty of its home country, does not think evil about this culture. Love bears all criticism about its home culture, believes all good things about this new culture, confidently anticipates being at home in this place, endures all inconveniences. For we know only part of the culture and we minister to only part. But when Christ is reproduced in this culture, then our inadequacies will be insignificant. When I was in America, I spoke as an American, I understood as an American. I thought as an American. But when I left America, I put away American things. Now we adapt to this culture awkwardly, but he will live in it intimately. Now I speak with a strange accent, but He will speak to the heart. And now these three remain: cultural adaptation, language study, and love. But the greatest of these is love. Author unknown.



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Spanish/English Translation The beauty of coming to Costa Rica is that people are generally helpful and sympathetic when you make an effort to speak, and you'll often find that a few key words and phrases can go quite a long way. Also, most Tico’s want to learn English, and will enjoy practicing with you.

Here is a Quick Introduction to the Language:

Buenos días: good morning

Buenas tardes: good afternoon

Buenas noches: goodnight

Me llamo...: my name is...

¿Como te llamas?: what's your name?

¿Cómo estás?: how are you?

Soy Americano/a: I'm American

Perdón: excuse me

De nada: you're welcome

Quisiera: I would like

No sé: I don't know

Tiene...?: do you have...?

¿Dónde está…. where is ….

¿Habla usted inglés?: do you speak English?

No hablo mucho español: I don't speak much Spanish

¿Podría repetírmelo, por favor?: could you repeat that, please?

Entiendo: I understand

No entiendo: I don't understand

¿Me entiende?: do you understand me?

¿Como se llama este en español?: what's this called in Spanish?

¿Qué es eso?: what is that?



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A Personal Reflection Exercise God is about to send you into a remarkable classroom -‐ God’s world -‐ with remarkable teachers -‐ God’s people and God’s Spirit. A good short-‐term mission experience will lead people to reflect on several sets of pivotal and challenging questions. (Dearborn, p.12)

1. What can I learn about myself? Seek to be open as a learner—even about yourself.

2. What can I learn about God?

Seek to understand why others believe as they do. 3. What can I learn about the people of God, about the Church, about community?

Seek to understand what contributes to a vibrant Christian community. 4. What can I learn about how culture impacts the way we live and understand the

gospel? Seek to gain new insights into the gospel that emerge from a different culture.

5. What can I learn about justice, economics, poverty, and politics?

Seek to explore these tough and urgent issues. Why are some poor and others rich? What does God say about this?

6. What can I learn about discipleship as a follower of Christ?

Seek to gain one new insight into what it means to be a disciple of Christ and have one new step of faithfulness permanently incorporated into your life.

7. What can I learn about a globally appropriate lifestyle?

Seek to discern one way you can live differently after you return in response to the needs of others in the world.

8. What can I learn about my own vocation?

Seek to understand ways you can even more appropriately steward the gifts, talents, and time with which God has entrusted you to participate fully in God’s purposes in the world.

Adapted from From Mission Tourists to Global Citizens: A Preparation Workbook for Short-‐Term Mission Teams, Tim Dearborn



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Section 5| Preparing for Your Time at Camp La Montaña’s Story Our passion is to reach the vast number of youth throughout the Spanish-‐speaking world with the transforming message of Jesus Christ. It all started in 1980, when we organized a Christian youth movement in Costa Rica using the multiplication concept of barrio group evangelism and discipleship camping programs that impacted over 50,000 teenagers. Latin America Assistance (LAMA) also developed a humanitarian outreach ministry to children in Nicaragua and Cuba called “LOVE IN A SHOEBOX” which provided Christmas gifts in a shoebox for barrio kids. By late 1990, LAMA, in fulfillment of a vision of many years, shifted its focus to a camping ministry and founded La Montaña Christian Camps. With the same desire to evangelize and disciple youth, LAMA began to develop a premier Christian camp that would endeavor to work through the local church in reaching Costa Rica for Christ. Since its inauguration in 2001, La Montaña Christian Camps has reached over 70,000 young people, and as a result, thousands have committed their lives to Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord. In 1998, vision became a reality when God gave us a 650-‐acre cloud forest property in Costa Rica. Camp was officially inaugurated and ready for campers in 2001. With the technical advice and wise counsel of friends from Hume Lake Christian Camps and the prayers and financial support of hundreds of Christians, we now reach over 12,000 young people each year. Using a solid biblical and recreation-‐based program, we have reached close to 70,000 young people so far! The Impact La Montaña will have on you Countless times, we have seen the Lord transform a life during the time of ministry here. We know that when a young person separates himself or herself by more than a car ride from home, they tend to listen more than they ever have at any other time in their lives -‐ and the Lord is speaking! God has commanded His followers to make disciples of ALL nations (Matt 28:19). Knowing that we are commanded to play an active role in global disciple-‐making, we also hope that participating in an international mission trip will leave such an impression on you, that you will become supporters of mission work for the rest of your lives, whether through prayer, financial support, church leadership, or even life service.



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Section 6| Frequently Asked Questions 1. Will I be able to call home and email while in Costa Rica? The camp does have an office phone that you can access in case of emergency only. The La Montaña Camp Office Phone: + 011 (506) 390-‐7338. La Montaña’s Director email: [email protected] You may also bring your cell phone and use in your room. Make sure to speak with your cell phone provider and find out the most cost efficient plan for your one-‐month’s stay.Because we want nothing to distract you in this short week of serving others, we suggest that you reserve calls and emails to weekly Internet café excursions. 2. How does my family contact me in the case of an emergency? Emergency Contact Protocol:Families, who need to contact you in the case of emergency, can call the La Montaña office. These numbers are to be used for emergency contact only: The La Montaña Camp Office Phone: + 011 (506) 390-‐7338 Joe Pent Jr. Cell Phone: +011 (506)2203-‐5960 or (506) 8891-‐4072 3. What are meals like at La Montaña? If you're traveling to Costa Rica for the first time, you're probably curious about Costa Rican food. Rice and beans are the bases of Costa Rican meals -‐-‐ all three of them. At breakfast, they're called gallo pinto. At lunch or dinner, rice and beans are an integral part of a casado (which translates as "married" and is the name for the local version of a blue-‐plate special). A casado is a typical dish made of chicken in sauce, next to rice, black or red beans, fried ripe plantain, salad, and mashed potatoes. 4. Is Costa Rica Safe? Without a doubt Costa Rica can be called the safest country in Central America. One of the reasons that Costa Rica continues to grow as one of the world's top destinations is because it is one of the few destinations where travelers can feel safe exploring almost any part of the country. U.S. citizens are encouraged to exercise the same level of caution here that they would in major cities or tourist areas throughout the world. We do however still practice wise safety measures. We often take interns to San Ramon, the nearest city, about 30 minutes away from the Camp. When traveling outside of La Montaña Camp, we always travel in groups and or pairs. Never is a participant left on his/her own. At La Montaña, we post a 24-‐hour security guard and our camp gate is locked at all times. No one is allowed onto the property without security clearance.



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Section 7| Required Forms to be Signed

Dear Short Term Missions Participant,

We are excited about your time and presence with us in Costa Rica. La Montaña Christian Camps is impacting the youth of a continent with the transforming message of Jesus Christ and we are glad you will be part of what God is doing here.

Please read over the following agreement forms. Outlined are expectations we have for you as a participant at La Montaña Christian Camps. Please sign them as you understand and agree with them.

We have a strong sense of responsibility to you, to our staff and campers in Costa Rica. Our goal is to work with youth to win and disciple them into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Overall, teams that come to us in Costa Rica have a reputation of helping us and being a part of this amazing ministry. We want to continue to assure this legacy.

___ Student Application (Optional Per Group Leader Discression))

___ Applicant Reference Form (Optional Per Group Leader Discression)

___ Participant/Parent Liability Release (Required)

___ Health Insurance & Medical Release (Required)

Once finished, please give these to your Group Leader, who will then send them to Latin America Assistance address.

¡Muchas Gracias!

Liz Weisenburger, MA. Administrator



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Short Term Mission Team Member Application

Please return your completed application to the team leader by _______________________. ��

A small group from the congregation will determine whether you may participate on the team. They will notify you when they reach a decision.

Name: _______________________________________ Age (optional): _________

Address (exactly as it appears on your passport, driver’s license, or birth certificate):

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Phone: (______) __________________ E-mail: _____________________________

Emergency contact: _______________________ Phone: ____________________ ��

(If necessary, use an additional sheet of paper to answer the following questions.)

1. Why would you like to participate on this short-term missions trip?

2. Have you had any previous cross-cultural experience? Please describe.

3. In what ways are you currently serving in your church, school, or community?

4. What skills, knowledge, and gifts do you have to offer this trip?

5. How would your closest friend describe you, including your personality, strengths, and weaknesses?



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Short Term Missions Team Member Applicant Reference Form

To help in discerning the following person’s readiness to be involved in a short-term missions trip, please complete the following form. Information provided will be kept confidential.

Please return it to _________________________________ by ________________.

Name of potential missionary: ____________________________________ ��

1. How long have you known this person, and how well?

2. How do you feel about their....

a. family relationships?

b. marital relationship (if married)?

��c. What do you consider to be his or her strengths?

4. What do you consider to be his or her weaknesses?

5. Do you have any concerns about this person being involved in a short-term missions trip?

6. Do you recommend this person for involvement in short-term missions?

____ yes, with no reservations ��

____ yes, with some reservations ��

____ no

7. Other comments or thoughts:

Your name: _________________________________ Phone: ____________________



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Liability Waiver Form

I understand that participation in La Montaña’s short term mission experience, with opportunities to work alongside staff at the camp, participate in high adventure activities including, but not limited to ropes courses, archery, biking, trail hiking in the cloud forest, swimming, etc. involve risking bodily harm to the above-stated participant. In signing below, I assume risk of harm or injury which may occur to the participant as a result of participating in the above-named event or activity. I hereby release La Montaña Christian Camps and their partner, Latin American Assistance, and its officers, employees, or agents from any liability, costs and damages resulting this individual's participation. I assure La Montaña that there are no health-related reasons or problems which preclude or restrict my participation in the short-term missions experience. I further assure La Montaña that I have adequate health insurance necessary to provide for and pay any medical costs that may directly or indirectly result from my participation in this activity, and I will indemnify and hold La Montaña harmless for any such medical costs. If the participant is a minor: I agree that the minor has my consent to participate in the event or activity. I also give my consent for La Montaña Christian Camps to seek emergency treatment for the minor if necessary, and I agree to accept financial responsibility for the costs related to this emergency treatment. I understand that this Release means I am giving up, among other things, rights to sue the University, its governing board, employees, and/or agents for injuries (including death), damages, or losses I may incur.I also understand that this Release binds my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, as well as myself.

Name of minor

____________________________________________________________________________________

First Middle Last

____________________________________________________________________________________

Street address

____________________________________________________________________________________

City State Zip



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LEGAL CONSENT FOR MINORS TO TRAVEL ��I/we hereby give my/our consent for the above-named person to travel outside the United States.

CONSENT FOR TREATMENT ��I/we hereby agree to the performance of such treatment, anesthetics, and operations as in the opinion of the attending physician is deemed necessary on the above-named person.

HEALTH AND ACCIDENT INSURANCE ��I/we verify that the above-named person does have adequate personal coverage.

____________________________________________________________________

Father/guardian signature Date ��(if applicant is under 18 years of age)

____________________________________________________________________

Mother/guardian signature Date ��(if applicant is under 18 years of age)



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Emergency Medical information

Name: _________________________________ Passport #: _________________________

Name of emergency contact: _________________________________________________

Relationship: ____________________________ E-mail: __________________________

Day phone #: _________________________ Evening phone #: ______________________

Name of doctor: _________________________ Phone #: __________________________

Do you have any special medical conditions that we should be aware of during your trip? (Allergies, low or high blood pressure, etc.)

Do you have any special dietary needs?

List all prescription medication you are taking:

Insurance carrier: ��(Make sure your policy covers you overseas.)

Name: _______________________________________ Policy #: _____________________

Contact phone #: ___________________________________________________________

In the event of a medical emergency, I hereby authorize those in charge to take me to the nearest licensed physician, medical center, or hospital to secure the necessary treatment to protect my well-being. I will be responsible for all medical costs not covered by my insurance.

Signature __________________________________ Date: __________________________

If under 18, signature of parent/guardian: ______________________________________

2 pre departure packet

Documents

latin america assistance