With a population of close to 2.3 million, Jamaica is hailed as one of the most religious islands in the Caribbean. Religion governs almost every aspects of the country. Religion though, is not what the inhabitants of Jamaica need. They need a Savior from sin and a personal relationship with God.
This summer a group of people through NDBC and Extreme Grace Ministries will embark on a mission to impact the lives of the people of Jamaica. Arming themselves with the message of hope, the love of Christ, and the Word of God our team will present the Gospel in numerous venues to hundreds of people.
In the summers of 2004 and 2005 student pastor and youth speaker, Aaron Currin of Extreme Grace led two young mission teams into the mountainous interior of Jamaica. College students and teenagers came together from across the United States from diverse backgrounds and various denominations with the singular purpose of proclaiming Christ to the people of this Caribbean country. Both endeavors resulted in a manifestation of God’s presence as the groups saw the needy helped, the saints encouraged, and lost souls won to Jesus Christ.
“The goal for 2009 is no different,” Aaron, now of North Dunedin Baptist Church, states, “The vision from God has not altered; neither has His passion to use His people to reach His people. Therefore, our goal is also unchanged.”
This group will be similar to those before in the sense that it will be made up exclusively of teens and young adults. “Having older adults on the mission field is a fantastic option for some groups, but in the past we have experienced tremendous results seeing teens pulled away from parental influence for a couple of weeks and taught to spiritually stand and speak for themselves.
About Jamaica
Jamaica's warm climate, beaches, and mountainous terrain (more than four-fifths of the topography is covered by mountains) makes this Caribbean island a popular tourist destination. Jamaica's most recognized cultural contributions to the world include calypso and reggae music, made popular by the late Bob Marley.
Like many Caribbean nations, Jamaica's culture has been strongly influenced by the influx of African slaves, brought to the country by Spanish colonizers. While English is the official spoken language, most Jamaicans speak a patois that evolved from Creole English with strong elements of African, Portuguese, Spanish, and Rastafarian terminology.
Hover on the photos above to view pictures from previous trips or and see what kind of work was done. Come on this year’s trip to become involved in these ministries and get in on what God is doing in the country of Jamaica!
How Long is the Trip?
The mission team will meet in Dunedin, Florida (just west of Tampa) on Friday, July 10, flying out for Montego Bay the following day. The team will return on Monday, the 20th of July. American Airlines will likely be the airline of choice for the team. Flight times will be available at a later date.
What ministries will the team be involved in?
Owing to the varying talents, gifts, and personalities within our mission team there will be several, varying ways in which to minister:
Church ministry
Team members will be asked to share testimonies, sing, or even teach in church services.
Children’s Ministry We will be conducting a Vacation Bible School each morning during our week in Jamaica, during which there will be opportunities for personal interaction with dozens of village children.
Youth Ministry At least one large, evangelistic, youth rally will be scheduled while the team is in Jamaica, at which team members will be called upon to teach, share, or counsel other teenagers.
Sports Ministry Those who are athletically inclined will have the opportunity to minister through sporting events while on the island.
Service Projects A couple of afternoons may be spent in manual labor, serving widows, the elderly, or the church through light construction, painting, or cleaning.
Will there be times of relaxation and fun?
The entire trip is enjoyable but there has been a specific time set aside for relaxation and spiritual renewal. The final two days of the trip will be spent in the gorgeous city of Montego Bay at the Breezes Resort. This time is spent touring, shopping, and recreating as the group rests and reflects after a week in the interior. This will also be seen as a spiritual retreat as there will be times of worship and challenges brought from the Bible by Aaron and the other leaders.
What will we be eating while there?
A wonderful team of local Jamaican ladies will be cooking meals during the time in Jamaica. We will eat banquet style with a mix of foods that are familiar to Americans with a few Jamaican dishes that you're sure to love. There will be plenty to eat.
Is the trip safe?
We believe that in God’s sovereignty nothing can touch His servants without His authority and orchestration. Of course, we do take precautions against dangerous situations. We establish a list of guidelines that must be followed for their own protection. Also, where we stay is an extremely secure environment where the team can relax and feel comfortable. Trip insurance is available at an additional cost.
How much does the trip cost?
The cost of this trip is $1,429 per person. This includes all fees and expenses owed to Praying Pelican Missions, supplies for ministry there, your flight from Tampa to Montego Bay, all transportation while on the island, food, lodging, and your team t-shirt. This fee does not include your passport—which every team member will need—souvenirs, or personal items.
Contact our team about participating in the Jamaica 2009 Missions Project. Space is limited so email us today at aaron@myndbc.com and use JAMAICA 2009 in the Subject line.
Get Involved
If you are seeking to donate to Jamaica 2009 please contact Aaron at: 727-771-3308. Make all checks payable to either Aaron Currin or North Dunedin Baptist Church. All donations would be greatly appreciated!
Fund-raising
If you are interested in going to Jamaica and participating in Jamaica 2009 please take a moment to read our Fund-raising tips.
