2015

LoveServes International

3310 US Hwy. 301 N. Ellenton, FL. 34222

www.loveserves.org

Mission Trip Info &

Application

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Empowering Churches to Transform their Communities

The Need: A Renovation of The Church because the majority are spiritually sick and are not making disciples.

Our Mission: We are radically transforming the local church model from the traditional to the Biblical through intense coaching and empowering local pastors to apply Ephesians 4:12: “...equipping God’s people for works of service, for the building up of the Kingdom of Christ…” Our Vision: To provide every church (approx. 6000) in the Dominican Republic the opportunity to be coached & trained to effectively equip their Believers to love the “least of these” and transform their communities. (We firmly believe God will take us into more countries in His perfect timing) What We Do:

MODEL Jesus while coaching pastors through church health process. Pastors and leaders realize their Biblical role as equippers (Eph. 4:12)

Coach churches to become healthy inside and become outreach focused with a vision for their community.

Train pastors to equip ALL the believers to use their spiritual gifts and natural abilities to form ministries to meet greatest needs

HOW we do it:

Nationals equipping nationals. Coaches are pastors that have successfully applied the principles they are teaching

Monthly coaching through regional networks

Utilize over 30 specialized workshops

Sustainable Model – Principle-based

Pastors & leaders begin leading by example

Spiritual gifts, talents and abilities identified in the Church to meet the greatest needs

Pew-sitters are inspired, equipped and motivated to become active ministers

Impoverished churches are taking ownership of the Great Commission

Cross-denominational collaboration

Churches not dependent on American resources

Community leaders see a relevant church and partner resources

Key Indicators tracking growth

Quantity Indicators / Year Year 1

Year 2

Year 3

Year 4

Year 5

Year 6 Year 7 Year 8 Total

Pastors/Churches being equipped 170 159 198 154 127 228 351 345 1,732

Leaders being trained 478 552 549 449 381 684 1053 1035 5,181

Network groups 22 15 28 24 19 32 54 52 246

Ministries formally started in churches 268 281 393 343 455 566 706 751 3,763

Adults who have accepted Christ 3,046 4,389 6,026 6,261 7,607 10,740 10,134 11,792 59,995

Baptisms 2,107 2,577 3,528 3,306 3,320 4,742 4,088 5,449 29,127

Our Goal: Today we have 7 coaches. Over the next 4 years, we are believing God for 18 more coaches so we

can empower all 6,000+ churches to reach the whole nation of 10.5 Million people.

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Mission Trips

Helping without hurting

Purpose of this Trip is two-fold: First, to come along

side and partner with a local church that LSI has been

coaching to complement one another in the body of

Christ. To be used to reach the community in such a

way that it connects, builds and strengthens the

relationships the local church has with the citizens of

the community. In contrast, we DO NOT want to “fix

their problems” or “ride in on our white horse to save

the day”. Rather, we want to begin the process of

building a mutual benefiting relationship that can most

effectively bring LONG-LASTING solutions to the

community’s physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

Humility is paramount!

The second purpose of this trip is to expose American

Believers to a unique ministry that has harnessed

Jesus’ simple strategy to build His Kingdom. Eph. 4:12

“Equipping God’s people for works of service…”

Our hope is that you will be inspired by the testimony of the local church that you work alongside. Then begin

to see how God wants to use you to love and reach the people in your own community with the gifts and

talents God has given you. We also would hope you will become a strong advocate for LoveServes back in the

USA.

Doing things different on purpose:

Our Executive Director, Daniel Rodrieguez and our team are working hard to raise up national leaders and

breaking the entitlement or “welfare” mentality that is prevelant in so many Dominican churches and

communities. We understand American believers feel compassion for poor Dominican churches and want to

give of their resources. However, it is paramount that Dominicans don’t percieve Americans coming to take

over and assume responsibility for the success of the ministry and its projects. Dominican pastors and their

people are learning the value of being self sustained and reliant only on God. American resources must go

directly into training, coaching and the equipping of these leaders in order to transform their entire paradigm

as to their role and their churches’ role in the community. If you desire to donate beyond your time and work,

please discuss this with one of the LoveServes staff before doing anything further.

Motivation for helping:

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Attitude is everthing. It is difficult at first to understand how to help when the goal is for the local church to be

the ones connecting with its community in order to ensure that the relationships established will be long term.

Since we don’t want to “take away” from the work that the Dominican believers are doing in their own village,

how then can we HELP them? We want you to see yourself as a partner, instead of the leader or the “rescue

help”. The key is all in the ATTITUDE and the motivation of your heart. Ask yourself some questions. What is

my motivation for helping? How do I describe poverty? If I was completely honest with myself, do I consider

myself superior in some way to the people in the Dominican Republic? If yes, how would this have an effect

on how I would help someone in poverty and/or minister to the lost? The RIGHT attitude MUST be humility.

The RIGHT motivation MUST be love. The RIGHT application MUST be partnership and collaboration. Being

Humble, Adaptable & Teachable (H.A.T.) is priority number one. So put your H.A.T. on and let’s go!

WHAT will YOU be doing?

Our LSI team has worked hard to do the leg work with the local church you will be partnering with. The local church has a vision and a plan to reach their community. In fact they are already doing it. Where you come in is joining the great work that God is doing in that specific location. However, we desire to see God use you in your gifts and talents. It is important to match you up with a ministry outreach that utilizes your area of giftedness. With that being said, it is also good to allow God to stretch you in areas you are uncomfortable so you can grow. You will most likely be helping Dominicans build a facility that will provide more ways and effectiveness in reaching the people in their community. Most trips involve some type of light construction project. This can include laying block, shoveling, pouring cement, laying foundations, painting etc. Carpenters, electricians, and plumbers are always in demand. Please let us know before-hand if there are any skilled tradesmen and TRANSLATORS coming on your team. Other ministries to be involved in are; children and teen outreach, feeding the hungry, helping the disabled, sick and elderly, gardening. How does my group prepare?

1. We can coordinate trips any time of the year – you must determine when the best time for your group to go and we can accommodate you as long as there is a minimum of 90 days lead time.

2. We require a minimum of 20 people on a trip (if you don’t have that many don’t worry, we can combine your group with another small group or some “singles” in order to get to 20)

3. Team leader must meet with LSI Trip Coordinator to go over the specifics of the trip prior to meeting with your team.

4. Your team is recommended to meet 4 times to go over the training material led by the group leader to ensure proper explanation of our unique type of mission trip.

5. Read the book “When Helping Hurts” by Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert (buy on Amazon for $7-9.) 6. Email a list of all the participants names with age, and skill sets to: peter@loveserves.org 7. Mail all mission trip applications (and copy of passport) as soon as possible and/or a minimum of 30

days prior to leaving: LoveServes International 3310 US Hwy. 301 N. Ellenton, FL. 34222

Workshops:

Equipping is what we do as an organization. You might have a specific skill set that could be taught and

duplicated. For example: If you are an IT computer genius, you may be able to teach a number of key people

from the area churches computer skills in such a way that they could go back and teach groups of others the

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same things. Other workshop ideas are: teen & children’s ministry, drama, music, business, accounting, and

english. The goal is to share ideas in your area of expertise, however being sensitive to the cultural context. It

is imperative that you remain humble and teachable in case your methods might need “tweeking” because of

the culture difference.

Important side note:

LoveServes International is known as AVI in the Dominican Republic. It is one and the same only different in

name. We changed the name in the US from AVI to LoveServes International for marketing purposes.

However, it made sense for the name to remain AVI in the DR being that it is well known and has a very good

reputation among the churches, denomination heads, and the Dominican government.

Expectations:

1. “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” (Phil. 1:27) 2. “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” (Heb. 13:16) 3. “Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who

must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you.” (Heb. 13:17)

4. “Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.” (Heb. 13:18)

Praise God, He is working and wants you involved!

BEFORE YOU GO - Preparing for your trip

PASSPORT All North Americans traveling to the Dominican Republic must have a passport. Check with your post office for a passport application, go to the U.S. Department of State web page: http://travel.state.gov/passport or the Passport Canada web page: www.passportcanada.gc.ca. If you are applying for a new passport, please allow 4 – 8 weeks for this process. All travelers should bring a photocopy of the first two pages of their passport in their carry-on luggage. FLIGHT Your group is responsible for all airfare and travel arrangements to and from Santo Domingo. A LoveServes International representative will meet you at the airport in Santo Domingo and LSI driver and transportation will be waiting for you. Be sure to check with the airline for current restrictions, luggage weight limits, etc. prior to arriving at the airport. Don’t worry if you are an individual, we will make sure you are connected with your group. MEDICAL INSURANCE It is required that all trip participants have filled out and returned the Medical Information and Release form to LoveServes 30 days prior to leaving. LoveServes does carry medical/trip insurance for each person, however it is recommended you carry your own medical/trip insurance as well. PAYMENT A non-refundable deposit for each trip participant in the amount of $150 is due with the Application or no later than 60 days prior to leaving. Construction/ministry costs are due 45 days prior to leaving. It is required that the balance of every trip participant has been received 30 days prior to leaving.

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DOMINICAN FACTS:

Population: Dominican Republic’s population is 9,378,818, of which 4.7 million are women and

4.6 million are men, according to the 2010 Population and Housing Census’.

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HISTORY of the Dominican Republic:

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WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR MISSION PROJECT: Everyone is permitted one large piece of luggage, weighing no more than 50 pounds. A second checked bag is allowed to bring ministry supplies, etc, however keep in mind that most airlines charge for a second checked bag. (Note: you may have a domestic flight that may charge for any checked bags) Each person is also allowed one carry-on bag and a personal item such as a purse or briefcase. Please check with the airline for current regulations and restrictions, especially with carry-ons.

4 sets of work clothes (long pants are required at worksite, no exceptions)

A couple sets of clothes to wear after work and on day-off

- Finger tip length shorts are OK at camp only

- No tank tops or sleeveless shirts in community

- Capri’s and long shorts can be worn on day-off 1 outfit for church service, not work clothes

- Men should wear long pants and collared shirt

- Women should wear long, loose fitting skirts past knees and no tank tops or sleeveless shirts 1 pair of work gloves, you may want to bring an extra pair

1 rain coat

8 set of underclothing

1 pair of sturdy work shoes, boots or sturdy tennis shoes

5 pair of work socks

Lightweight pajamas, please be conservative

2-3 bandannas for work site

Swimming suit- Please be conservative one piece for women or wear a shirt over, no speedos for men

Flip flops for the shower

Towels and washcloths for shower

A pillow and twin sheets for bunk beds

Mosquito Net (our DR staff will have nets for rent $2)

Soap

Brush or comb

Toothpaste and tooth brush

Shampoo

Insect repellent

Chapstick

Flashlight

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Ibuprofen and other medications (baby powder or other skin protectant is good for keep from chaffing)

Sunscreen (SPF 15 and above is recommended)

Razor and shaving cream

Bible, notebook and pens

Hat and sun glasses for the work site

Refillable Water bottle!

Extra batteries

Anti-bacterial gel for cleaning hands or wipes

Optional Items

Camera and extra batteries (please remember to be sensitive when taking pictures)

Fanny pack or backpack to carry items to the work site and on day-off

Toys and activities for playing with kids in the community (Frisbees, jump ropes, bubbles, fingernail polish, etc.)

Some spending money for snacks and souvenirs.

Powdered Gatorade or small liquid bottles that you can add to water that has electrolytes and vitamins (ie, MIO)

Granola bars or other SEALED SNACKS, please remember that food attracts bugs, so all food must be kept in sealed bags or containers

Your work clothes may be subject to concrete, paint, sweat, mud, etc. Please do not wear work clothes that you don’t want

ruined. Long pants are required at most work sites. Wear work clothes that are cool and comfortable.

Do not bring any valuables. You are responsible for anything you lose. LoveServes does not recommend wearing jewelry in

the Dominican Republic.

We recommend you leave ipods, mp3 players at home.

Do NOT bring any illegal substances, tobacco or alcohol. We will send someone home if we find someone using these

during the week.

Our staff in the DR will exchange money for your group at the current rate. They will also have items for sale such as

postcards, stamps, phone card, vanilla and coffee.

NOTE about PHONES AND INTERNET:

If you bring your cell phone – PLEASE check with your cell phone provider to find out what fees or charges you might be subject to when you go out of the country! You might consider a Temporary International calling card, because very high roaming charges will apply on your regular plan.

Internet is not readily available at the camp, but limited access will be provided by LoveServes to send an email or post on facebook.

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Mission Trip Application

Name_________________________________________ Birthdate___________ Male___Female___ Address_____________________________________ Telephone _____________________________________ ___________________________________________ Email: ________________________________________ Home Church______________________ Pastor’s Name _________________________ Years Attended______ Emergency Contact__________________________________________________________________________ (Relationship) Name_____________________________ phone________________ Email: ____________________________ Name of Beneficiary _______________________________________ Phone: ___________________________ MEDICAL: Doctor______________________________ Contact Info___________________________________________ Health Insurance Provider______________________________ Policy Number__________________________ Have you ever been treated for mental or emotional illness? __________________________________________________________________________________________ Are there any physical conditions that might affect you in a foreign country? __________________________________________________________________________________________ List any Medical Conditions___________________________________________________________________ List any diet restrictions and allergies ___________________________________________________________ Please give a statement regarding your general health __________________________________________________________________________________________ List current medications you are taking__________________________________________________________ Passport #_______________________________ Issuing Country____________________________________ expires____________

NOTARY IS REQUIRED TO WITNESS YOUR SIGNITURE AND SIGN OFF OR STAMP THIS PAGE I understand that LoveServes International is not held responsible for expenses incurred by illness or accident while or subsequent to my stay during missions trip. I agree to provide for my own personal accident/health insurance. ____________________________________________ _______________ Notary Stamp here (signature) (Date) ____________________________________________ _______________ (signature of legal guardian if under 18) (Date) *This application must be returned at least 60 days prior to your arrival on any mission trip

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SPIRITUAL BACKGROUND: Please share briefly your personal testimony of how and when you came to Christ

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please describe your spiritual walk with God in recent months.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please explain why you are interested in going on a missions trip with LoveServes International

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please share briefly about you past mission trip experiences (if any), including domestic & foreign

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Please give an explanation in your own words about the role of the Church in the area of poverty

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What has been your experience in how God has used your gifts and talents for His glory

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