1
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Service and Learning Teams 2014
2
PRE-FIELD GUIDE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
3
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
Welcome 4
Communication 5
Mission field profile 6
Service & Learning Team Program 7-8
Guide to planning, forming and sending
a Service & Learning Team 9
Early Planning 9
Approval and scheduling 9
Spiritual Preparation 9
General preparation 10
Documents and paperwork 10
Finances 10-11
Insurance 12
Luggage Requirements 12
What to Bring 12
Orientation 13
Health 13-14
Team schedule 14
Ministry Activities 14
Relationships with Nationals 15-16
Follow-up 16
Summary 17
Code of Ethics 18
Heading Home 19
Prayer of Archbishop Romero 20
Finally… 21
CRCNA Standards of Conduct 22
CRCNA Personal safety plan 23
Spanish Glossary 24
Table of Contents
PLEASE DISTRIBUTE THIS INFORMATION TO
ALL TEAM MEMBERS TO READ WELL IN ADVANCE
4
Dear Service and Learning Teams:
We are so excited by your desire to serve God through Christian Reformed World Missions (CRWM).
We’re delighted you’ve chosen to join a CRWM Service and Learning Team as a volunteer missionary,
for what we expect will be an exciting and fulfilling journey.
Now that you have committed yourself to go to the Dominican Republic, you may be wondering about all
the details relating to passports, flights, immunizations, finances and what to bring. This handbook pro-
vides you with important information that can be used before, during, and after your time of service as a
CRWM volunteer.
Please know that if you ever have any questions, you may contact us via email or phone.
Our contact information is on the following page.
In His Service,
Lisa Sochacki
Christian Reformed World Missions
Program Coordinator
Volunteer Ministries
Welcome to Christian Reformed World Missions!
5
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
Your main communication for serving with
Christian Reformed World Ministries in the
Dominican Republic, is through Christian
Reformed World Missions.
For US and Canada: Lisa Sochacki—
Program Coordinator: Volunteer Ministries
1700 28th Street SE
Grand Rapids MI 49508-1407
1-877-279-9994, ext 2750
(616) 224-0750
Dominican Republic Field Contacts
and Addresses
Mailing address & fax number for all missionaries: Agape DMG #13923
100 Airport Ave.
Venice, FL 34285
In-Country Addresses: Mission Office:
Phone: 1-809-565-9601
FAX: 1-809-547-3501
Ministry Center (Centro de Ministerio), where teams
in the Santo Domingo area are housed:
Calle 4 #6, Barrio Los Angeles,
Avenida Monumental km 13 Autopista Duarte
Phone: 809-564-3026 or 809-564-2963
Print and carry this page with you on your flight in order to have
the address of your lodging and the phone #s of contacts.
Communication
Name Work
Description Location
E-mail/Agape
Account # Phone #s
Steve & Sandra
Brauning
Partner consultant
and field adminis-
trator
Santo Domingo [email protected]
DMG13923
Home: 809-922-8486
Cell: 829-643-1098
Office: 809-565-9601
Duane & Shelley
Postma
Service &
Learning Team
Coordinator
(Jan-March each
year)
Sioux Center,
IA & Santo Domingo
[email protected] Home, Sioux Center
712-722-4440
Robert and Betty
Roldan Wood
Santo Domingo [email protected]
Home: 809-697-8261
Cell: 809-481-3923
6
Missionary presence includes two career missionary
families, including Christian Reformed World Missions
(CRWM) and World Renew; a volunteer team coordinator
and partner missionary teachers.
1. People group: Christian Reformed World Missions
works with both Dominicans and Haitians in the Domini-
can Republic. The Haitian community includes immigrants
as well as second and third generation Dominicans of
Haitian origin. Many work for the sugar cane industry and
live in company owned villages called "bateys." Others
commute or live in squatter areas in the larger urban cen-
ters where they work at labor-intensive jobs. Haitians are
the largest foreign minority group in the Dominican Re-
public and most lack permanent legal documentation by
the Dominican government, and face the reality of being
deported at any time. They are the poorest of the poor in
the D.R. There is estimated to be over one million people
of Haitian descent living in the D.R., about 10% of the
total population.
2. La Iglesia Cristiana Reformada en la República
Dominicana (ICRRD — the Christian Reformed
Church in the Dominican Republic) is our main partner.
Over 12,000 persons attend the ICRRD regularly. There
are about 190 congregations spread throughout the coun-
try in 13 zones. About 130 are organized churches with
ordained pastors and the rest are chapels or preaching
stations. CRWM supports the following church ministries
with grants and missionary participation:
a. Bible Institute training on basic and advanced levels,
b. local, regional and national church development and
consultation,
c. evangelism and discipleship training and ministry,
d. church growth support and consultation,
e. construction program for church, pastor housing and
ministry centers,
f. diaconal committee development.
3. Christian Reformed Schools (COCREF) provides
quality Christian day school education (K-12) in 16
marginal communities, reaching approximately 4,000
students from both churched and unchurched families.
200 national teachers, supervisors and other staff are the
backbone of COCREF. CRWM provides a substantial
grant as well as institutional, pedagogic and financial
consultation.
4. Community Development: Through partnerships, the
CRC is involved in community development here in the
D.R. Disaster relief, micro-credit, food security and
diaconal development are some of the ways that World
Renew partners and serves in order to impact the country
with the integral, holistic, transformational power of the
Gospel.
5. Other Partner Agencies: Santiago Christian School is
a bilingual primary and high school, at which a number of
partner CRC missionaries serve. UNEV and UNELA are
evangelical university partners with mission and church
for higher education. The Strategy for Transformation is a
regional youth ministry with a director in the D.R., partner-
ing with the CRC. Worldwide Christian Schools partners
with COCREF in coordination with CRC ministries. The
CRC Racial Reconciliation Ministry has a facilitation team
here as well.
6. North-South Exchange through Service and Learning
teams, volunteers, ecumenical connections, and inter-
church partnerships is an important way for us to fulfill the
CRWM vision “to glorify God by leading the CRC to
respond obediently to our Lord’s commission to witness
to the good news of God’s Kingdom and make disciples
of all nations.”
Mission Field Profile Christian Reformed World Missions in the Dominican Republic
7
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
Introduction
Christian Reformed World Missions in the Dominican
Republic (D.R.) is committed to providing opportunities
for service and learning for North American visitors, vol-
unteers, and teams. These opportunities contribute to
growth and development on all sides, and provide a
vital link of communication and fellowship between the
North American participant, the mission team, and the
national partners.
This experience allows the participant a first-hand view
and understanding of the missionary task and life,
which cannot be communicated in any other manner.
Although visitors may contribute materially to the
people in the Dominican Republic, they also RECEIVE
spiritually from the people they meet, LEARN and
GROW as persons, gain new insights on issues such
as poverty/wealth, international relations, cross-cultural
communication, and even construction methods, and
can build life-long relationships with believers here in
the DR. Also, the Lord uses these experiences and re-
lationships in many lives to spiritually edify and even to
call new missionaries.
Types of Service and Learning
1. Church construction projects: Teams help in the
construction of church buildings or other projects, as
part of the joint construction program of World Mis-
sions and the Iglesia Cristiana Reformada en la
República Dominicana (ICRRD). The need remains
great in this area. The majority of leaders and mem-
bers of the Christian Reformed Church here are
plantation workers with little property or rights, or
financial resources to build their own church build-
ings. The team provides part of the construction
costs and labor, as does the local congregation.
Each construction project is a JOINT PROJECT with
the national church where the team works along side
Dominican or Haitian partners. 65% of donations
provide a grant to the national partner for project
expenses such as purchasing materials and some-
times land, hiring local builders, as well as creating a
reserve fund for emergencies and other projects. We
suggest teams be ten days in length with 8-12 peo-
ple. However, we are flexible and more than willing
to work with you and your group. We consider a vari-
ety of factors including transportation, costs, division
of labor, and national participation when organizing
teams . Oversized groups are discouraged. The
goal for teams is not necessarily to complete any
project, and should not be seen as such.
Church buildings: These consist of block
walls, cement floor, and a tin roof supported by
a wood frame. Wooden doors and windows
may also be included. Size: 20' width is stan-
dard — with lengths ranging from 35'-50'. The
buildings are not completely finished during the
team’s stay, and elements not completed are
considered the responsibility of the church.
Service & Learning Team Program
8
Pastors' houses: Many pastors do not have
the economic resources to have their own
home and may rent or live in very substandard
quarters. A small, durable home helps the
pastors carry out their work, which aids church
growth and stability in the community.
Ministry center buildings provide facilities for
a zone (classis) to hold a variety of activities.
Teams should include people capable of physi-
cal and skilled labor, but not exclusively. Will-
ingness to help, spiritual maturity (only commit-
ted Christians who are active in their home
church will be considered), availability, disci-
plined character, organizational skills, and
good overall physical health, are important
requirements. It is recommended to include
several young people in the team, in order to
encourage interest in missions.
2. Community development teams: These teams
work with water projects, latrines, or other
community development projects.
3. Study or vision teams: Usually organized by col-
leges, universities, seminaries, churches, or other
institutions, these groups come down with the ex-
press purpose of learning about culture, language,
or missions. The idea is on-site education, with
some hands-on experience. School teams may
have certain academic standards, set by the send-
ing institution. Youth groups may come to partici-
pate in evangelism, drama, Vacation Bible School,
or youth encounters. Others may simply want to
visit the mission work to get to know the missionar-
ies and their work.
Although these might not be work teams, they may
participate in some construction project as part of
their whole program. Team size is determined by
organizational and logistic considerations and will
vary widely. It is vital to have at least one Spanish
speaker — be it a student, teacher, or translator
who would accompany the team at all times.
4. Christian school construction teams: COCREF,
the Christian Reformed School program partners
with Worldwide Christian Schools to provide con-
struction of school buildings. Please refer to WCS
for any information regarding this ministry.
Worldwide Christian Schools U.S.A.
1009 44th St. SW
Wyoming, MI 49509
(616) 531-9102
(800) 886-9000
http://wwcs.org
EduDeo Ministries
https://edudeo.com
9
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
1. Early planning: The first step is one of vision,
best formed within the context of a local church, al-
though teams also can be organized on a classical
level, or at high schools, colleges, universities, etc.
Form a "Service and Learning Team Task Force," find
interested persons, make connections with other
churches, etc. Form your ideas as to purposes, plans,
timetables, finances, etc. Planning can take anywhere
from six months up to two years. The continued con-
tact and support of the church is vital to the team, and
therefore, the team should keep the church(es) in-
formed as to progress, plans, and prayer requests
throughout the whole process.
Once the team is selected and formed, get to know each
other well and start the process early. Start meeting
together for planning, discussion, encouragement,
prayer and fund-raising well in advance of going to
the field.
The team should name individuals to several roles
including:
team leader (could be a couple)
spiritual/ devotional leader
construction or project coordinator
contact person for communication to the field
(can be the same as the team leader).
fund-raising & finance coordinator
2. Approval & Scheduling: Initial approval of
teams serving with World Missions is done via the
CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator in the US
(see contacts on page 5 ) and agency staff on the
field. Once approval has been given, the Program
Coordinator will provide team leaders with their Ser-
vice & Learning Team Procedures, which will assist
the team in their many preparations for serving with
World Missions. Please note that winter months are
very popular and cannot always be fulfilled, so start
the communication process early.
Be sure to relate the airline and flight numbers to the
CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator and your
missionary contact once your flights are confirmed.
If at all possible, avoid travel on Sunday. Sunday is
the time where we encourage communal worship
and special family time.
Maintain good contact with the CRWM Volunteer
Program Coordinator throughout the preparation
and planning stage to relay any and all pertinent
information, as well to be informed about what is
happening on the field.
3. Spiritual preparation: As mentioned before, the
spiritual benefits from the exchange experience are
many. We suggest, therefore, that preparation and
effort go into this aspect as much as any other. Begin
to develop a group devotional time BEFORE coming.
Plan on having daily team devotions, as well as
special times of prayer and worship while on the field.
The team should prepare to participate in a church
service here in the Dominican Republic. This is a lo-
cal expectation and a good opportunity to demon-
strate not just what the hands can do, but also the
heart. This is not a “performance,” since worship par-
ticipation is generally informal here, without the ex-
pectations of “polish” as in many North American
churches. By simply participating, a bond can be es-
tablished. First and foremost, is that the team identify
themselves, their sending church(es), why they are
here, and bring a greeting from home. A song, brief
testimony(ies), or even a sermon can be included.
These can be done with translation.
Guide to Planning, Forming, and Sending a Service & Learning Team
10
4. General preparation: Read and learn about the
Dominican Republic ahead of time. Newspapers,
magazines, and broadcast news are helpful to
keep you current. Encyclopedias, almanacs,
as well as information from World Missions are
also good sources. The Internet also has a wealth
of information.
For general information:
www.dr1.com
www.sjbc.org/missions/drinfo1.htm
For Canadian perspective:
www.dfaitmaeci.gc.ca/english/geo/lac/2050.htm
For U.S. perspective;
http://travel.state.gov/travel/dominican_republic.html
For pages with links: http://lanic.utexas.edu/la/ca/dr/
To learn about Haiti/Creole: www.uhhp.com
Note: The above sites are suggestions for possible
information only. The nature of the sites and their
content are not necessarily endorsed by Christian
Reformed World Missions or the Dominican
Country Team.
Spanish is also very helpful to have, even if it is just
a little. Members can study before hand with phrase
books. Try to learn some Spanish words, phrases,
and songs. Bring along a Spanish/English Dictionary
or electronic word translator and dictionary. Those
who have taken the effort to learn some of the lan-
guage will have a more meaningful experience.
Recommended reading:
“When Helping Hurts” by Steve Corbett & Brian Fikkert
“Serving with Eyes Wide Open” by David Livermore
“Foreign to Familiar” by Sarah A Lanier
“The Hole in our Gospel” by Richard Stern
5. Important documents and paperwork:
Passports and visas: Entrance requirements occa-
sionally change, but be prepared for the following: US &
Canadian citizens need a valid passport and can enter
the DR with a tourist visa, available in the airport
when you arrive. Check with your travel agent and
airline if in doubt. The tourist visa costs $10 US.
Applications: All team members must fill out and turn
in a signed application. Applications can be obtained by
the CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator.
Letters of Agreement: All team members will need to
sign a Letter of Agrement with CRWM. This form will be
created specific to your dates and team name by the
CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator.
Minors: For minors not accompanied by their parents,
both parents will have to sign a letter of permission from
the parents/guardian, indicating the name of the party
responsible for the minor (should be an adult team
member/leader), and should accompany the team
when traveling. This form may be obtained from the
CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator.
6. Finances: Service and Learning teams cover all
their own expenses, as well as the project expense.
This is the only financial resource we have on the
mission field to sustain this program.
There are three main financial elements to the team:
A. Team donation sent to CRWM (Grand Rapids or
Burlington), and checks written out to CRWM — to
cover logistics and projects. The simple formula is:
$120.00US per day per person, to/from the Santo
Domingo airport. The exact breakdown varies from
team to team, but about 35% covers team logistics, in-
cluding your in-country lodging, food and transportation
expenses; and 65% provides a grant for project
11
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
expense such as materials, land purchases, and local
builders.
This money is to be donated by your church directly to
CRWM and designated for the DR Service and Learn-
ing Team Project from “your church/area,” and should
be submitted preferably no less than two months in
advance of the team’s arrival on the field. If that is
problematic for your team, please discuss this with the
CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator. As soon as the
funds are sent in, please notify your missionary contact
as well as the CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator.
Please write checks out to CRWM. Then on the
memo line indicate “DR Service and Learning Team
Project – your church name.” CRWM in each country
will make sure your funds are forwarded to the correct
account.
Send funds to the appropriate address below:
Teams from Canada send in CDN $: Christian Reformed World Missions
Attn: Liz Busuttil
3475 Mainway Box 5070 LCD1
Burlington ON L7R 3Y8
Take current exchange rate into account when calculating funds –
please call the World Missions office for that information.
Teams from the U.S.A. send in USD $: Christian Reformed World Missions
Attn: Lisa Sochacki
1700 28th Street SE
Grand Rapids MI 49508-1407
B. Team expenses include airfare, insurance and all
other pre & post-field expenses (travel to/ from airport,
food while in transit, etc.). These may be handled
directly by the team itself. However, if your team needs
assistance with airfare, insurance or other team issues,
please contact the CRWM Volunteer Program
Coordinator.
C. Individual expenses: Expenses for souvenirs,
snacks, restaurants, outings and other special activities,
etc. are the responsibility of the individual.
Note that there will be special group outings planned
which may include some personal expense, depending
on the wishes of the team.
Exchanging Money: Either cash or checks – IN US
DOLLARS ONLY – can be exchanged with the help of
your missionary contact. You can change a small
amount in the airport upon arrival at the currency ex-
change or at the ATM to get some pesos (maybe $10
worth) in order to have some personal funds on hand
right away for an emergency. We do not recommend
traveler checks.
Resources: You may be wondering, "Where are we
going to get all this money?" It is a step of faith to make
the commitment to plan for a Service and Learning
Team, and the Lord will provide. The best sources are
church mission budgets, special offerings, sponsors or
fund raising events. Some lumber yards or construction
companies / vendors may be willing to donate tools; just
ask. Phone, or e-mail the CRWM Volunteer Program
Coordinator for more information as they have ideas on
successful events. There are many ways to raise the
money. Be creative, and have faith.
12
7. Insurance:
A. Medical: Out of country/province medical insurance
and medical evacuation insurance is mandatory for all
US and Canadian team participants.
Team members should verify if their medical insurance
covers them while overseas and includes emergency
medical evacuation. If not, we suggest purchasing a
rider on your policy or obtaining additional short-term
international insurance. Contact your CRWM Volunteer
Program Coordinator for prices and details to fit your
team. One policy may be better for a youth team while
another is better for an older or multi generational
team . We even know of a policy that has a “cancel for
any reason” clause.
B. Travel: Travel insurance (cancellation and interrup-
tion) is highly recommended, but not mandatory.
Travelers take full responsibility on how this will impact
them. This insurance needs to be purchased at the
time of booking your flights. You will need to discuss
this with your travel agent but please be very thorough
in determining what your insurance covers and what it
doesn’t. For US teams, this can be purchased along
with your international medical policy. Contact the
CRWM Volunteer Coordinator for more details.
8. Luggage requirements: Note that with
most airlines, checked luggage can only be 50 lbs.
per piece. It is very important that you check with your
airline well in advance and before you start packing,
concerning additional weight and size limits. Some air-
lines have certain times when embargos apply to the
amount you can bring. If you are flying during a peak
season, ask specifically if there is an embargo in effect
on Caribbean flights.
9. What to bring:
A. Tools & Materials: Please check with your mission-
ary to find out what they have and what they may need
on the field. In this way the real needs will be met.
There is already a substantial tool collection on the
field, but some specific items may be needed. Please
also check with your airline specifically about their poli-
cies regarding tools in checked luggage.
B. Kitchen / Food Items: In most cases, three meals
a day are provided as part of the team room and board
expense. However, you may want to bring some snack
items for the project site, airplane, etc.
C. Personal & Miscellaneous
Valid passport — Canadian and US law requires
that your date of departure from the DR is no less
than 6 months from the expiration date on your
passport.
Bible and song books for group devotions
Spanish phrase book or dictionary.
any personal medications
hats for sun protection
sun block (30spf or higher)
hand sanitizer
a picture of your family — to share with local people
Camera
one sheet and one towel — your missionary contact
will advise you if you need to bring more, as some
housing locations may require that.
some spending money for souvenirs — bring US
cash ($100 — $150 should do it)
clothing for HOT weather. Expect to sweat out your
clothes on a daily basis. On the work site or other
public places, please plan on only very modest
clothing. Long pants are recommended, and women
should wear skirts for church and other public
activities. Shorts and tank tops are not acceptable
for women, even at your place of accommodation.
There is a careful balance between casual and
dressed-up: avoid extremes.
Dress code for Sunday worship:
Men: Should wear dress pants and a nice shirt
Women: Should wear a dress or skirt.
13
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
10. Orientation:
Pre trip: The CRWM Volunteer Program Coordinator
or the DR Volunteer Coordinator will provide orientation
for teams prior to their departure. The intent is to pro-
vide answers to the many questions people will have –
especially those who have not participated on such a
team before. This orientation will also provide an over-
view of what World Missions is doing in the DR and
what it means to partner with them.
On the Field: Missionaries will provide orientation on
the country, national partners, mission team, work pro-
ject, cross-cultural issues, and other items. This will
normally be scheduled early in your visit. Orientation is
an important part of an enjoyable, productive and
memorable service and learning experience. Written
and audiovisual materials, as well as interaction with
missionaries and national partners will be used. Visits
to ministries other than the one associated with the
project are also helpful ways to build the team's vision
for the ministry.
11. Health
A. Food & Water: Don’t drink the water! Not from the
tap or anywhere else, except from a safe source,
i.e. purified bottled water. Use only purified water for
brushing teeth, making coffee, cleaning fruits & vegeta-
bles, etc. Make sure ice and drinks offered or pur-
chased by nationals are made from safe water. If it
may contain impure water, DON'T DRINK IT! Drink-
ing unpurified water can cause anything from diarrhea,
dysentery, or even hepatitis. Anything cooked or
peeled is usually fine, but a simple rule for food and
drink is, “when in doubt, throw it out.”
Eating or drinking contaminated food can quickly
change your short-term experience into an unhappy
one. So please remember to wash your hands before
eating, and after using the toilet or being in contact
with possible sources of contamination (soil, trash).
This is common sense in any location but more so
here in the tropics.
B. Heat: Heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration, and
even severe sunburn are all very common and very
dangerous. Main causes are exposure to heat and sun,
and lack of sufficient liquids in the body. To avoid any
of these conditions, first we insist that care is taken to
avoid prolonged exposure to the sun by making use of
shade, hats, and sun screen. Secondly, we insist that
everyone drink lots of liquids all day, especially while
you are working. Taking regular breaks helps as well.
These things are especially important for anyone who
is over 60 yrs old, has had heart problems, or is over-
weight. These precautionary measures will insure you
of a healthy, positive experience in country. Symptoms
of heat illness start with muscle cramps, including ab-
dominal cramps, headaches, and/or lightheadedness.
If these are noticed, the person should cool off and
drink right away. More severe stages are characterized
by nausea, vomiting, enlarged pupils, dry, hot, red skin,
weakness, dizziness, rapid, weak pulse and/or breath-
ing, confusion, or even unconsciousness. A person
with these symptoms needs to get help. Cool the per-
son down with water, fans, or air-conditioning if possi-
ble. If the case is severe, get the person to a hospital.
They may need intravenous fluids.
14
C. AIDS: Avoid contact with another person's blood,
and watch out for things that could carry blood, like
used hypodermic needles. AIDS is very common here,
so even in treating someone else's injuries, use latex
gloves.
D. First Aid: The best first aid is often a good wash-
down with water and an anti-bacterial soap (like Dial).
In case of more severe injuries, get a recommendation
for a good clinic for stitches, treatment of fractures, etc.
We recommend that the team keep a first aid kit with
them at all times. If it becomes necessary, there are
good hospitals and clinics located in the capital Santo
Domingo and Santiago. The team would do well to
have a nurse or someone trained in first aid to be on
their team.
E. Immunizations\medical preparations: There
are no immunization requirements to enter the DR.
However, the Center for Disease Control (CDC)
recommends that you be updated on your routine
immunizations (such as Tetanus) and recommends
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Typhoid. For more detailed
information please go to the CDC website at:
wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/Dominican
republic.htm
12. Team Schedule \ Activities:
The missionary assigned as host to the team will ar-
range for the team’s stay here. That includes housing,
transportation, food, tools, orientation, and project su-
pervision. He will consult with the church regarding pri-
orities of construction and local labor, and help the local
church coordinate its participation.
Generally, the missionary will not be the leader of the
team, but rather be the host and coordinate overall. The
team itself will have its own leadership, and determine
its own schedule, work assignments, and other activi-
ties. Of course, these should always be in consultation
with the host missionary.
Team and relational needs are vital to a good experi-
ence. Daily group devotions should be held. An evening
fellowship and/or worship time may be planned with a
missionary family. All activities
should be planned with the
best interest of the team in
mind. Therefore we ask that
individuals not plan separate
outings, personal vacations,
or individual activities while
with the Service and Learning
Team. Rather, schedule
group activities. Singles
should avoid dating or "pairing
off" with other team members or nationals.
Free days with the possibilities of other special activities
should also be planned. Some special activities can
include such things as visits to tourist markets, colonial
sites, the beach, snorkeling, exploring the countryside,
hiking, sports, or even scuba diving or deep sea fishing.
Again, these activities must be planned in coordination
with the team and missionary.
13. Ministry Activities
While the work project is important, it is not the only
goal. North Americans are typically very project-
oriented: "We gotta get the job done," is a typical
attitude. Haitians and Dominicans are very people-
oriented. It is so important that the group take time to
relate to the people. This is a lasting part of your wit-
ness here and is a reflection of your love and concern
for them as people as well as your love of Jesus Christ.
Attendance at a worship service or other church activity
is an important part of the experience. Time spent
interacting with nationals is always a blessing despite
the language barrier.
To enhance the missions experience and exposure,
your team may participate in a ministry or outreach
other than the building project. It may be evangelizing
with local church members in their neighborhoods, a
visit to a Christian school where the team can meet
teachers and children and participate in a chapel or
other activity, or simply spending time in the homes of
local church members or neighbors. This will be
planned ahead of time through your missionary contact.
15
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
14. Relationship with Nationals:
Remember that you have come to learn as well as to
give. While working with nationals, we should respect
their ways of doing things. There are many rich re-
sources in these communities, families, churches, and
cultural heritages. We must recognize and respect
this, and not cheapen it by trying to be the "savior" of
some "poor folk."
To respect the national Christians, we require that all
group members refrain from smoking or drinking dur-
ing their stay. If you are a smoker and feel that you
would have difficulty with this request, please do not
participate on a Service and Learning Team.
On the work site, you will work along-side church/
community members who are also serving voluntarily
to help build their own church or school building. Your
group is not going to build a church, but rather, your
group will assist the church to build its own building.
This is one way that we reduce the dependency men-
tality, as well as instill local ownership. The project is
not a “give-away.” For example, most projects will
have been started by the local church or school before
the team arrives, and they will finish whatever is not
done by the team.
There are different ways of doing things in the Domini-
can Republic, and some construction methods may
seem antiquated or even ridiculous. We need to ad-
just our thinking, and go along with some of the tried
and true "Dominican" ways, just as the nationals here
will be adjusting to try to understand and learn from
the North American way. We need to be flexible in
cross-cultural relationships.
One of the long-lasting results of this trip will be rela-
tionships with nationals. There are cultural factors that
must be kept in mind, though. One is the strong de-
pendency mentality that exists here. Often North
Americans are seen as wealthy benefactors. You may
be bombarded, from almost the minute you land, with
requests for money or things. The airport porters may
beg for more tips. People on the streets and on the
work site may ask you for your hat, shoes, tools,
clothes, etc. So we ask that you please not plan to
bring or distribute any personal gifts. Remember that
you have come to help, but you can't solve all the prob-
lems. At times, giving money or other goods does not
help, but hinders and can create hard feelings — it may
even jeopardize the work being done by that agency.
The entire Service and Learning program, including
your team, is channeled through the national church
and school leadership, so that all resources are distrib-
uted according to these national partners’ needs. That
includes our time, funds, and any material assistance
and donation that may accompany your team. Many
teams bring used clothing, especially children’s cloth-
ing and shoes, to contribute to the church’s emergency
relief efforts especially following fires, floods, or other
events. Some sports equipment can be brought and
used to create a bridge with local kids; school supplies
can be donated to the COCREF program to help
needy families. This is all encouraged, but always
within limits: 1). What you can bring with regular lug-
gage; 2). Only bring items that have been gently used
and are in good shape; 3). Items to be channeled
through national leadership and programs.
16
One of the big issues we deal with is “how to
help”? We are confronted with so many needs and
many requests for help. This tugs on our heart strings.
Of course we want to help, that’s why we’re here! But
the big question is, “how to help?” How to help in ways
that will really help? How to help in ways that don’t ac-
tually hurt? Some of the issues involved are avoiding
creating dependency and unmet expectations, avoiding
damaging relationships and long-term projects. The
rule of thumb is: don’t do for someone what that person
can do for himself. You can’t imagine the possible im-
plications or consequences of trying to “help” someone
in another culture. But it doesn’t usually help to just
give things or money. You will want to help someone
within your first hour of being in a new situation.
DON’T. 99 times out of 100 there would be negative
consequences you can’t even begin to understand.
Yes, there are rare exceptions to this rule, but your
situation is probably not one of the exceptions. This is
one of the stickiest situations encountered in intercul-
tural situations, and it’s probably one of the stickiest
situations you’ll encounter too, so please be patient
with us if we sound just a bit over-the-top on this one.
We’ll be pretty tough about insisting that your dona-
tions of money go through one of our agencies, rather
than taking it with you directly to the field. Your team
host will guide your thinking about this during your
Service & Learning Team experience. We will arrange
things ahead of time so you fit into the community’s
plans in an appropriate way.
Here’s some really great wisdom from a veteran over-
seas staff person, reporting on the aftermath of some
“help” being given in an inappropriate way:
The individuals who did not get gifts will feel angry and
resentful of the ones who did. Conflict, jealousy, and
suspicion were introduced into the community and
families. What seemed like a small sum of money to a
North American was close to a whole year's income.
People now will feel a strong temptation to become
"best friends" with the rich white visitors just in order
to get money from them. This can cause national
Christians to fall into the sins of lying and greed.
Imagine if Bill Gates joined your church, and said he
really wanted to help, how would it affect the leadership
and the dynamics of your congregation?
Traditional communities have many customs and prac-
tices that ensure that people are treated fairly, and that
benefits in the community are shared with all members.
For example, at a baby naming ceremony in West
Africa, the portions of meat are carefully divided among
the guests with close relatives getting more, but every-
one getting at least some. When a visitor from the
outside gives to an individual, rather than to the whole
group in public, you have disturbed a system of
reciprocity and sharing that has been functioning for
hundreds of years.
The same principle goes for giving large sums to one
village, such as to build a school or clinic, while the
neighboring villages get nothing, or giving money to
one church's building fund while the other churches get
nothing. Local churches are usually organized into
groups of churches in districts, and they prefer to let all
the churches share benefits, and discuss how those
will be spent, rather than have one local congregation,
who was “lucky” enough to host some white visitors,
get it all.
15. Follow-up:
After the trip, teams are asked to share their experi-
ences and those of the Dominican people with their
church and supporters. They are also asked to partici-
pate in debriefing and provide feedback on their experi-
ence through CRWM.
17
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
This summary has been provided as a reminder and quick reference once you have joined us in the DR, but is not meant, nor should be used as, a short cut to the entire manual.
1. Travel in a spirit of humility with a genuine desire to
learn more about the people in the countries you
will visit.
2. Realize that people in the countries you will visit
have time concepts and thought patterns different
from your own. This does not make them inferior,
only different. They are our sisters and brothers.
3. Be sensitively aware of the feelings of other people,
preventing what might be offensive behavior on
your part. This applies especially to photography.
Try not to take photos of people without their
permission.
4. Discover the enrichment of experiencing a different
way of life, stretch yourself to try new foods and
activities.
5. Cultivate habits of listening and observing, rather
than merely hearing and seeing. Ask questions
respectfully. Instead of the Western practice of
knowing all the answers, talk less and listen more.
6. Acquaint yourself with local customs. People will be
happy to help you and will notice your sensitivity.
7. Remember that you are only one of thousands of
tourists. Do not expect special privileges.
8. Do not make promises to people you meet unless
you are certain you can carry them through.
9. Spend time reflecting on your daily experiences in
an attempt to deepen your understanding. If you
keep a journal, write not only what you saw, but
what it meant to you, how you felt, what you
learned, or what needs further study.
adapted from a "Code of Ethics for Travelers" drawn up
by the Christian Conference of Asia.
Summary
18
During your stay:
Remember the new beatitude: “Blessed are the
flexible, for they will not snap.” Patience helps.
As you have suggestions, pass them on to your
translators so that they may pass them on to us.
Drink only bottled or purified water.
Using hand sanitizer several times per day,
especially before meals, keeps you healthy.
Flashy jewelry, clothing or showing off a lot of
money in public targets us for thieves (just like
home)
Promises to nationals, including “if.. maybe… we’ll
see.. perhaps…” get us in trouble.
Most Dominicans believe that, if you drink alcohol or
smoke, you can not be a Christian. So don’t.
The success of your work depends not on your
skills but on prayer and the Holy Spirit.
In your testimonies, share your salvation experience
and how and why you came to the DR.
Play with children, but do not be alone with a child.
If you have a favorite child who follows you every-
where, others will be left out. Include all of them in
your activities.
Work at maintaining a positive attitude. Have a
sense of humor, even if it kills you!
Encourage and bless those around you at all times.
Code of Ethics:
Travel in a spirit of humility with a genuine desire to
meet and talk with local people although you don’t
know the language.
Be aware of the feelings of the local people to
prevent what might be offensive behavior.
For example do not take a picture without asking
for permission.
Realize that other people may have different
concepts of time and other thought patterns which
are just that — different, not inferior.
Make no promises to your Dominican friends that
you cannot implement.
Spend time reflecting on your daily experiences in
order to deepen your understanding of transforma-
tional development and biblical worldview.
Code of Ethics
19
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
For the moment, your time in the Dominican Republic
has ended. You are looking at people and the world
through different eyes than you were a short time ago.
Be prepared for sensory bombardment — choices of
foods, goods, etc. Perhaps you feel guilty over a $100
pair of jeans. Perhaps you feel helpless. Perhaps you
are angry. Perhaps you have a deeper walk with God,
or perhaps you feel on rocky ground.
You might dive right back into “life” and chalk it up as a
good experience, you might feel a desire to sell all your
belongings or you might plan your next trip. How does
your time in the DR connect with your life back home?
God is the God of all. He was before you, with you and
will be here after you. With God as Creator, Christ as
Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit as mediator, it doesn’t
matter where you are, you are in His grip. Your time in
the DR might be over, but it is not a closed chapter,
rather it was one more step on your Journey. God had
a reason for sending you to the DR. What did you learn
about or from Him? What is God doing where you are
located now? You may feel very content in the Lord
right now, or you might be completely disturbed.
Focus on one or two things that you will do differently.
You may now return as a teacher with a different sensi-
tivity to your students. Maybe you will learn a new lan-
guage. Maybe you will pay more attention to local and
national and international laws that are unjust. Maybe
you will befriend immigrants in your area. Maybe you
will find new ways to support the work of CRWRC and/
or CRWM in the Dominican Republic. The list is end-
less. Think ahead for the near future, as well as 5 to 10
years down the road — perhaps write a mission state-
ment for your life. Pray.
Whatever it is, remember “...that he who began a good
work in you will carry it on to completion until the day
of Christ Jesus” ( Philippians 1:6)
How Do I Share What I’ve Learned?
When you return, everyone who knew you were gone
will ask about your trip. It might surprise you at their
level of interest. Some of those closest to you might not
want to hear more than 30 seconds and some people
who you might not expect to have interest, might want
to listen for a long time. In all you do, it is good to share
what you saw God doing in the DR. Be prepared to
share a 30 second spot, a 5 minute one and potentially
even a video or other presentation.
Be sure to share with all those who supported you fi-
nancially and prayerfully. Remember that life happened
while you were gone, listen to what happened with
them as well. It is suggested that you share your ex-
periences with your church family, and so inquire with
your Pastor before your departure to the DR, of when
that might best be possible. He/she may be interested
in focusing on missions and service that will link to your
experiences. Maybe someone on your team is familiar
with putting together a power point presentation.
CRWM can also suggest some ways to do this.
A final word: PRIDE — it is a favorite tool of the devil. A
common problem among all persons who have experi-
ence cross culturally is that we can develop an attitude
that we “know it all, be-
cause we’ve seen it all or
done it all.” When you go
home, be very conscious
to this tool of the devil.
Yes, you have learned
some new things, and
hopefully somehow your
life will change. Consider
the humility of the Prayer
of Archbishop Oscar Ro-
mero, martyr in El Salva-
dor:
I’m Heading Home — Now What?
20
It helps, now and then, to step back and take the long view.
The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts, it is even beyond our vision.
We accomplish in our lifetime only a tiny fraction of the magnificent enterprise that is God's work.
Nothing we do is complete, which is another way of saying that the Kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that should be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith.
No confession brings perfection.
No pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the church's mission.
No set of goals and objectives includes everything.
This is what we are about.
We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water seeds already planted, knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities.
We cannot do everything, and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that.
This enables us to do something, and to do it very well.
It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way,
an opportunity for the Lord's grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results, but that is the difference between the
master builder and the worker.
We are workers, not master builders, ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future that is not our own.
Amen
Prayer of Archbishop Romero
21
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
And finally….
We go to serve in obedience to a call. What we do is
first of all for the glory of the King whose Kingdom we
will have a small hand in bringing about. The key to a
successful work team is to submit ourselves to God
and one another out of reverence for Christ, being
open to new perspectives, and not thinking more highly
of ourselves than we ought to think, but counting others
better than ourselves. If your group communicates, and
is open to learn, receive, and serve, during its time on
the field, the experience will be one for which we will all
want to remember and praise God. As you have joined
us, based on the information provided in this manual,
we are then assured that you accept your responsibili-
ties in honoring the role you undertake.
Thank you for the gifts of time, money and friendship
you are sharing. You are a blessing to our community
here in the Dominican Republic. We pray the Lord, in
turn, will bless your family, church and community
through this experience. Please remember to pray for
the DR and its people.
22
The Christian Reformed Church in North America
(CRCNA) highly values the many gifts and contribu-
tions volunteers offer its many ministries and programs,
and supports all those serving in various capacities. It
is understood that volunteers who go out as represen-
tatives of the CRCNA, do so with a high degree of
integrity and per the following standards of conduct.
At all times, while acting in an official or unofficial
capacity, the CRC Volunteer is expected to demon-
strate mutual respect and love towards others:
Speak with civility and kindness
Listen carefully
Seek other’s wellbeing
Follow directions
The volunteer may direct concerns, problems and
suggestions to his/her team leader, CRC Ministry Staff
and/or the World Missions staff.
Volunteering within the context of CRC ministries
brings team members into relationships with many
different people, both on a personal as well as profes-
sional level (ie: as a representative of the Christian
Church). As such relationships are fostered, the Volun-
teer is expected to maintain a high level of integrity and
avoid anything that may be construed as inappropriate.
Furthermore, the volunteer will be required to pro-
vide a current police records check to the World
Missions office and should begin the process for
that as soon as a ministry site has been secured.
At no time may a Volunteer engage in:
a. Any illegal activity under local, state or federal law
b. Activities that pose a significant safety risk to others
c. Engage in any of the following:
attempting to influence legislation or an election or
aid a partisan political organization;
helping or hindering union activity;
engaging in any form of religious proselytizing;
impairing existing contracts for services or collective
bargaining agreements;
participating in, or endorsing, events or activities
that are likely to include advocacy for or against
political parties, political candidates, political
platforms, proposed legislation, or elected officials;
providing a direct benefit to a for-profit entity;
a labor union, a partisan political organization,
a religious organization, or a non-profit that
engages in lobbying.
The Volunteer understands that the following acts
also constitute a violation of the program's rules
of conduct:
Repeated use of inappropriate language (i.e. pro-
fanity) at any time during the service assignment.
Failure to wear culturally appropriate clothing while
on the project site.
Consuming alcoholic beverages or smoking during
the performance of service activities, or being under
the influence of alcohol or any illegal drugs during
the performance of service activities.
Unauthorized use of communications and communi-
cation tools (internet, email, cell phone, etc.)
For those who may have body piercings other than in
their ears, we ask that they are removed for the
duration of your Service & Learning Team experience.
CRCNA Standards of Conduct Service & Learning Team Members
23
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
The Christian Reformed Church in North America
(CRCNA) highly values the many gifts and contributions
that volunteers offer their organization, but also realizes
there are elements of complexity and risk when travel-
ling abroad. The CRCNA takes all reasonable steps to
ensure the safety and wellbeing of staff and volunteers
and have a CRCNA Security policy in place for emer-
gency situations. Aside from such a policy, it is noted
that those who serve with the denomination are primarily
responsible for their own safety. The following rules
and guidelines are what the CRCNA expects of its
volunteers.
Rule #1
Only YOU can ultimately be responsible for your
own safety and security.
Rule #2
Trust your instincts
Rule #3
There will always be risk and danger. They can never
be fully eliminated.
Rule #4
Rely on your missionary host or local host (s) for tips
and clues to safety and general behavior. Also, don’t
be afraid to ask about something that you sense is
unusual, uncomfortable suspicious, or threatening.
Guideline #1
Each country with a CRC office and ministry staff has a
security plan. With serious security issues, they will be
in contact with the CRCNA Crisis Response Team in
Grand Rapids and you will be asked to follow staff
instructions. In the event you choose to make your
own decisions, the CRCNA and the agency you’re
serving with including its partners, are absolved of
all responsibility.
Guideline #2
Make sure you have phone numbers of CRC staff —
both home and office. Have these available with your
group on site and also provide to family members
at home.
Guideline #3
In some countries you may want to register with the US
or Canadian Embassy upon arrival, so if something
should happen they are aware of your presence and
location. Check with CRC ministry staff to determine
the necessity.
Guideline #4
North Americans are naïve and very quick to trust
people. If not already done so, ask CRC ministry staff
to advise you on how best to relate with local people.
Personal Security and Travel Safety Tips Luggage
use common “middle of the road” (nondescript) bags
avoid “frequent flyer” indicators
avoid name tags with titles and keep them covered
(do not use home address)
Dress
dress consistent with cultural norms of your
destination
avoid the “American look”
wear simple jewelry only (or none at all)
avoid culturally offensive items (ie: religious jewelry)
Summary
develop personal relationships in your neighborhood,
work and church
develop and use your language skills
understand the culture you are in
understand the differences between religion and
politics, and religiously avoid politics.
CRCNA Personal Safety Plan — Groups
24
A Brief Spanish Glossary Words and Sayings
Hello ....................................................... Hola (OH-la) Goodbye .................................. Adios (ah-dee-OHS)
Yes ......................................................... Sí (See) No ............................................ No
Please .................................................... Por favor (poor fah-VOHR)
Thank you ............................................. Muchas gracias (MOO-chas GRAH-see-ahs)
You’re welcome ..................................... De Nada (day NAH-dah)
Good morning ........................................ Buenos dias (BWAY-nose DEE-ahs)
Good afternoon ...................................... Buenas tardes (BWAY-nahs TAR-days)
Good night ............................................. Buenas noches (BWAY-nahs NO-chays)
What is your name? ............................... ¿Cómo se llama? (KO-mo say YA-ma?)
How are you? ......................................... ¿Cómo esta usted? (KO-mo aye-STAH oo-STAYED)
Very well thank you ................................ Muy bien, gracias (moo-e bee-AYN GRAH-see-ahs)
I don’t understand .................................. No entiendo. (no en-TEE-EN-do)
How do you say it in Spanish? ............... ¿Cómo se dice en español? (KO-mo say DEE-say en espan-YOL)
I don’t know. ...................... No sé. (no SAY)
Where? ............................. ¿Dónde? (DOHN-day)
When? ............................... ¿Cuándo? (KWAHN-do)
How’s it going? .................. ¿Cómo le va? (KO-mo lay VAH)
How’s it going? (informal) .. ¿Qué tal? (KAY Tal)
I am fine. ........................... Estoy bien. (es-TOY bee-EN)
Speak slowly please. ......... Hable despacio, por favor.
I don’t understand. ............ No comprendo.
I am very hot ..................... Tengo mucho calor
I am cold ........................... Tengo frio
I am thirsty ........................ Tengo sed
I am hungry ....................... Tengo hambre
I am a Christian ................. Soy cristiano
Are you a Christian?.......... ¿Es cristiano usted?
Door .................................. la puerta (la poo-ERR-tah)
Window ............................. la ventana (lah ben-TAH-nah)
Table ................................. la mesa (lah MEH-sah)
Ball .................................... la pelota (lah peh-LO-tah)
Sun .................................... el sol (el soul)
Tree ................................... el árbol (el AR-bowl)
Flower ............................... la flor (lah floor)
Grass ................................ la hierba (lah ee-HER-bah)
Car .................................... el carro (el CAR-oh)
Airplane ............................. el avión (el ah-vee-ON)
Bread ................................ el pan (el pahn)
Meat .................................. la carne (lah CAR-neh)
Fish ................................... el pescado (el pehs-KAH-doh)
Apple ................................. la manzana (lah mahn-SAHN-h)
Water ................................ agua (AH-gua)
Right .................................. derecha (day-RAY-chah)
Left .................................... izquierda (ees-KEYAIR-dah)
Up ..................................... arriba (ah-REE-bah)
Down ................................. abajo (ah-BHAH-ho)
Bible .................................. la Biblia (BIB-lee-a)
Church .............................. la iglesia (ee-GLAY-see-ya)
Jesus ................................ Jesús (hay-SUES)
God ................................... Dios (dee-OS)
Gospel .............................. El Evangelio (el ayvan-HELIO)
Love .................................. el amor (el a-MORE)
Peace ................................ la paz (la PAHS)
Joy .................................... el gozo (el GO-so)
Grace ................................ la gracia (la GRA-see-ya)
Sin ..................................... el pecado (el peck-AHDO)
Forgiveness ...................... el perdón (el pear-DOHN)
Heaven ............................. el cielo (el see-AYE-lo)
One ................................... uno (OO-no)
Two ................................... dos (dose)
Three ................................ tres (trace)
Four .................................. cuatro (KWAH-tro)
Five ................................... cinco (SEEN-ko)
Six ..................................... seis (SAY-s)
Seven ................................ siete (see-EH-tay)
Eight .................................. ocho (OH-cho)
Nine .................................. nueve (NEW-WAY-veh)
Ten .................................... diez (dee-ES)
Sunday .............................. Domingo
Monday ............................. Lunes
Tuesday ............................ Martes
Wednesday ....................... Miercoles
Thursday ........................... Jueves
Friday ................................ Viernes
Saturday ........................... Sabado
25
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC TEAM MEMBER HANDBOOK
Christian Reformed World Missions
1700 28th Street SE
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/crcworldmissions