TWO IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER

Often helping hurts

To most of the world, Americans are wealthy, and much of the world views US mission volunteers as a potential source of income. With that said, US Mission Team volunteers are desperately wanting to help those they see who are hurting. But the reality is that without a deep understanding of the local culture and the training that goes along with “HELPING”, then that good-hearted help often hurts worse than you can imagine. When a volunteer “helps” he feels fulfilled and blessed to be able to do what they did, but he leaves the situation and there is a trail of problems that his “help” created. When on the field with the IMFC, why the help can hurt will be explained very clearly, but for now please know:

THERE IS A WAY TO HELP PROPERLY, if you feel led to do so. Before ever giving out anything or helping in any situation, talk to the IMFC field leadership (primarily Steve DuVall). He will guide you in the best and most proper ways you can fulfill what God may be asking you to do, while not creating a host of problems that arise in your wake.

Taking photographs

You’ll be walking in unfamiliar territory with people who are not from where you are, so it is quite tempting to take photographs in order to remember. This is a natural part of life, but please remember those people who are being photographed may not want to be captured forever on your cell phone. They may understandably be offended if you take their picture. Perhaps they may request some sort of payment for appearing in your phots, and this can cause quite a distraction and scene.

Just as you would have problems with someone coming into your neighborhood, home, work or church, and taking pictures, they feel the same way. Just as you would have problems with some random person photographing your children; they are going to have the same thoughts.

There is a right way to take photographs, and this is to ask to take pictures. Often after leading someone to Christ, you can ask if it would be alright to take their picture so you can have a face to remember as you pray for them. Be considerate with your camera and phones.