Meeting God in Missions – Short Term Mission Trip Frequently Asked Questions

(LaVega)

Q	Do I need a passport?
A		A passport is required by the US government for travel to the DR. Minors under 13 years of age traveling alone, with only one parent, or a third party must present written authorization by the absent parent(s) or legal guardian. This authorization must be notarized.
Q	Do I need shots?
A		Consult your physician regarding personal health questions. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) website www.cdc.gov will give current health guidelines.
Q	Will I be able to call home?
A		There are no public telephones in the compound. There is a “phone bank” nearby where you can make phone calls home. Your call is timed and you will pay with local currency – phone cards do not work. A 10 minute phone call costs approximately $3-$5 American dollars. An emergency number in the DR will be provided with your travel itinerary.
Q	What are the living conditions like in La Vega?
A		– Housing is dormitory style. There are separate living quarters for the men and women. Each dorm area includes bunk beds, showers and toilets. – There is a large cafeteria/meeting area. Hot nutritious meals are prepared especially for the Americans. The food and working area are sanitized many times throughout the day to ensure every one stays healthy. – As a precaution, use hand sanitizer several times throughout the day and always before eating. – Culligan / filtered water and ice are provided. Do not drink the tap water or use it to brush your teeth. Conserve water by taking short “Dominican” style showers. – Sanitary / septic systems in the DR do not accept toilet paper. Please dispose of all paper products in the waste containers provided. – We ask that you keep the chapel area prayer / quiet area. Please be considerate to those around you. House rules will be reviewed upon arrival. In summary: – Respect others and the Conference Center. – Refer all questions or concerns to an MGM representative. – Do not leave the compound without permission from a MGM representative. – Do not invite anyone back to the Conference Center. – Do not ride or drive a motorcycle or scooter for any reason.
Q	What is the typical daily schedule?
A			6:00 AM Wake-up Call 7:00 Devotions 8:00 Breakfast 9:00 Morning Missions 12:00 Lunch 1:00 Afternoon Missions 6:00 Dinner 7:00 Church 11:00 Lights out Times subject to change based on circumstances. - Everyone should attend morning devotions and evening services. If illness occurs, or rest is needed, please take time out of day-time activities. - Bring your bible, jounal and pen to devotions and church. - Remember to take time to journal daily. - Spend time alone with God everyday – especially in the morning before devotions. Listen and watch what He shows you!
Q	Is there a dress code?
A			We must remember we are visitors in a foreign country. In many villages the people are accustomed to seeing our group in their American attire and have no problems with our appearance. In some cases, the local churches and villages we visit for missions may take offense to our clothing. For all church services and missions to villages that MGM knows there is a sensitivity, MGM will require the following attire: - Men: long pants, shirt with a collar - Ladies: dress or skirt to knees, top must cover shoulders In the Conference Center and all other times modest shorts and t-shirts (no tank tops) are appropriate.
Q	Can I leave the Conference Center?
A			Do not leave the center without talking to a team leader/MGM representative. There are people coming and going for a variety of reasons all day long. If you have a specific need we will gladly do what we can to help - just let us know.
Q	What can I expect to see outside the Conference Center?
A			Agriculture is the main source of employment in the DR and Haiti. Public education is offered in only the largest cities to a small portion of the population. In rural areas only private education is available. Most families can not afford to send their children to school, which is why the literacy rate is low. Over 45% of the population can not read or write. Lack of government, infrastructure (water filtration, sewage, good paying jobs, educational opportunities) all play a part in the extreme poverty you will see in the DR and especially Haiti. Haitians in the DR face additional racial prejudices. They are considered the lower class and have very few options for education or work. Most Haitians can only find work in the sugar cane fields, even if they were fortunate enough to be educated. So, why do they come to the DR? At it’s worst, the living conditions and minimal work opportunities are more hopeful than staying in Haiti. When we visit Haitian villages in the DR you will see the poorest living conditions and hunger. Although physically we come and share our resources and talents, spiritually we are trying to provide for an eternity.
Q	Can I bring things to give away / donate?
A			Yes – as long as it fits into your luggage within the weight guidelines. Distribution of candy, clothes, etc. is done in an organized fashion to ensure the safety of the team and the local people. Many times items are left with local pastors to distribute to those in need. Talk to a MGM representative about the most effective way to give away items you bring.
Q			Why can’t I give my address and telephone number to the locals?
A			Giving your personal information to local people may give them the wrong impression. Often they feel this is an invitation to call you collect and often. Your information will most likely be passed to other locals adding to the number of phone calls you will receive. Please talk to a team leader/MGM representative before you share your personal information in any circumstance.