Serving in Guatemala Impact Ministries Fieldworkers Handbook - Impact ...
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Impact Ministries
Fieldworkers Handbook
Serving in Guatemala
Impact Ministries Canada (IMC) Impact Ministries USA (IMUSA)
PO Box 975 PO Box 550
Kamloops, BC V2C 6H1 Duvall, WA 98019-0550
250-434-4350 (phone) 617-855-5259
www.impactministries.ca www.impactminusa.org
fieldworkers@impactministries.ca info@impactminusa.org
© Impact Ministries 2022 No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission of
Impact Ministries USA, PO Box 550, Duvall, WA 98019-0550 or Impact Ministries Canada, PO Box 975, Kamloops, BC V2C 6H1
Last revised June 7, 2022COVID-19 INFORMATION 3
INTRODUCTION 4
OVERVIEW OF THE MINISTRY 4
FIELDWORKER’S ROLE AND TERMS OF SERVICE 5
APPLICATION PROCEDURE 6
SERVING IN RURAL GUATEMALA 7
FIELDWORKER CONDUCT 8
Code of Conduct for Teams and Fieldworkers in Guatemala (May 2019 version) 8
Dress Code 9
General Guidelines – Women 9
General Guidelines – Men 9
FIELDWORKERS INTERACTING WITH MISSION TEAMS 10
Dress Code - Be a good example 10
Giving Direction 10
Media 10
Discourse 11
REQUESTING ITEMS FROM TEAMS 11
FINANCES 12
ADMINISTRATIVE FEES 12
Ground Costs 12
Stipend 13
TRAVEL 14
SPIRITUAL PREPARATION & DEVOTIONALS 15
SPANISH 15
TIMELINE 15
Before You Apply 15
Your Application 16
Once Accepted 16
Approximately 1 Month Prior to Departure 17
APPENDIX ONE: WHEN HELPING HURTS ASSIGNMENT 18
APPENDIX TWO: DEVOTIONALS 21
APPENDIX THREE: SUPPORT APPEALS AND COMMUNICATION 26
APPENDIX FOUR: RESOURCES 27
1COVID-19 INFORMATION
It is critical that you review Impact Ministries COVID-19 Procedures in Guatemala. It is also important that
you review this document on a regular basis, as it will be kept up-to-date as requirements change.
2INTRODUCTION
Thank you for being willing to give of yourself in Guatemala. God will honor the sacrifices you make and will
grow you in unimaginable ways! Your work will enable Impact Ministries to better fulfill their mission in
Tactic and the surrounding areas.
OVERVIEW OF THE MINISTRY
Impact Ministries was founded by Les and Rita Peters in 2000. Les is the Field Director of Impact Ministries.
He, along with his wife, Rita, were ordained as pastors prior to moving to Guatemala. They now reside and
work in Tactic, Alta Verapaz, Guatemala.
We will strive to serve each worker with warmth and sincerity. It is our hope
that this experience will take you into a deeper understanding of God’s love
and bring enlightenment regarding His call to making disciples throughout the
world.
Les and Rita Peters
The mission of Impact Ministries is “To train Guatemalans for leadership by teaching biblical principles in
such a way that they become integrated in their lives and effect spiritual change in their society, and to
impact North American Christians for world missions.” Fieldworkers play a valuable role in supporting Impact
Ministries to achieve this mission.
The Lord’s favor on this ministry has been evident, and the continued rapid growth brings with it many
challenges and opportunities. Impact’s focus on intense discipleship and personal contact has produced
much spiritual fruit. The ministry enjoys a positive reputation in the community. Currently, Impact Ministries
serves over 1700 students in 10 school programs running out of 7 school facilities. Several programs that
support the care of our students have been established including a medical clinic and an agriculture
program.
In addition the Rio de Vida church has been established which operates in three of the school campuses, and
gathers together regularly as a large congregation. Impact Ministries also cares for abandoned children in the
Children’s HOme that opened in 2019. The Vida School of Discipleship began in 2022 and provides a program
of learning, spiritual growth and ministry for North American believers. It is a one year program with the first
three months taking place in Guatemala and the following nine months taking place on transition home.
It is our belief that over the next few years thousands of students will mature in Christ, hear His call on their
lives, and devote themselves to impact the world with the power of the gospel. It has been truly amazing to
see the Lord’s favor on the ministry and to see many young men and women, who were once students in our
3schools, taking positions of leadership to influence the next generation for Christ. From modest beginnings,
the Lord is mightily building lives for His Kingdom.
FIELDWORKER’S ROLE AND TERMS OF SERVICE
Serving for a longer term is a much different experience than participating in a mission trip. You will
experience highs and lows, as you live amongst the people and truly embrace them and their culture.
Whether you will be teaching English in one of our schools, working with mission teams, providing
expertise on special construction projects, managing the medical clinic or serving in some other
capacity, your efforts will bear much fruit in God’s Kingdom.
Generally speaking, a person will be designated as a Fieldworker when their term of service exceeds
the 10 – 14 days generally associated with a Short-Term Mission Trip. Your term of service needs to
match the work applied for, the ministry’s calendar, and current needs.
Terms can vary in length and may include a 3 month term (14 – 90 days); a 6 month term (90 days – 6
months); or a 10 month term (6 months – 10 months). If you are interested in teaching English in one
of Impact Ministries’ schools, you will need to commit to a term of 10 months (January through
October) as this is our annual school year, and hold a TEFL certificate.
Impact Ministries has a few requirements that need to be met in order for you to be considered to serve as a
fieldworker:
● You must be a born again believer serious about developing your relationship with the Lord.
● You must attend and participate in a local church.
● You must have the skills to fill an expressed need within the ministry which cannot be effectively
filled by a Guatemalan National.
● You must be able to provide for your financial support
○ Raise support
○ Donate personally or have your sending organization make donations.
● You must disclose life threatening medical conditions to Impact Ministries and they may
determine eligibility for service.
The following are examples of individuals who may be considered for placement as Fieldworkers with Impact
Ministries:
● Pastors who teach and minister while in Guatemala
● Doctors and other medical professionals who provide medical services for the people of
Guatemala and the missionaries serving with Impact Ministries in Guatemala.
4● Professionals who provide an essential service for the ongoing well-being and development of
Impact Ministries (i.e. architects, accountants, lawyers, counselors, teachers, tradesmen,
instructors, teachers etc)
● Support staff who are needed to sustain essential operations of the ministry (i.e. team hosts,
project supervisors, English teachers, etc)
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
All applications received by Impact Ministries will be given serious and individual consideration.
Application Procedure:
1. Preview - Impact Ministries websites at either – www.impactminusa.org (US) or
www.impactministries.ca (Canada)
2. Prayer - Ask the Lord to reveal His will to you regarding your involvement in this venture. As He
directs you to follow a certain path He will fill your heart and mind with His peace.
3. Confirmation - Ask those who are in authority over you for their counsel and blessing. The Lord
wants us to live in submission to those who have authority over us.
4. Communicate with the appropriate office for a link to the Fieldworker’s application. Contact the
US office at info@impactminusa.org or the Canadian office at info@impactministries.ca. Fill out
the Fieldworker’s Application form and submit it to the appropriate Impact Ministries office.
5. Within the online application there is a link to the reference form. The applicant should
provide that link to their pastor or leader and ask them to submit online
6. The Impact Ministries Operations Manager will conduct an interview with the potential
Fieldworker. In some cases the interview will be conducted by the Field Director or others.
7. The Impact Ministries Staff and the Field Director in Guatemala will review the application and
the interview information and make a decision.
8. The Impact Ministries Operations Manager will contact the applicant with the decision regarding
acceptance and role as a fieldworker in Guatemala.
Impact Ministries prays over each application and seeks the Lord’s will regarding its acceptance.
5SERVING IN RURAL GUATEMALA
The climate in Guatemala is interesting in that it is quite varied depending on the altitude. In the coastal
lowlands it is extremely hot and humid; however, Tactic is located in the higher altitudes, where the
temperatures are comfortable year-round. It can be quite warm (even hot) during the day, but usually cools
off in the evenings. Tactic also receives a tremendous amount of rainfall throughout the year. February to
May are the driest months; August to October the wettest.
While working in Tactic, you will be housed in one of a number of different situations. Fieldworkers involved
with the mission teams will be housed in (or close to) the team housing. Those working in the schools may
also live in the team housing complex, or they may live in homestay situations. Whatever the arrangements,
they will be safe, clean and comfortable. Impact Ministries will provide an equipped kitchen with all the
necessary tools. The ministry will provide clean drinking water.
Impact Ministries expects fieldworkers to be faithful in the main events of the Rio de Vida church- primarily
Sunday morning services. With respect to other meetings (prayer meetings, men’s meeting, other events
that are announced from the pulpit for the congregation), the ministry would hope that you would have a
desire to be involved in as many of these events as your schedule would allow. If fieldworkers are hosting or
coordinating teams, evening meetings with the teams will sometimes interfere with church activities;
however, fieldworkers are always invited to be a part of anything that is announced for the congregation. The
more you are involved, the more you will connect personally with the people. As for worship teams and
special ministry groups, if you have an interest in being a part of the church’s worship teams or special
ministry groups, talk with Les or Rita. Again, you should feel like this is “your congregation” while you are
here.
6FIELDWORKER CONDUCT
As a North American, you are going to stick out in Tactic! Everyone in town will know you are here within a
few hours of your arrival. It is our desire, as a ministry, to “stick out” as quietly and humbly as possible. In
fact, we purpose to have as little impact on the culture, apart from the Gospel, as possible. In order to do
that, Impact Ministries developed a Code of Conduct and Dress Code so that those working with us
understand what our expectations are.
Code of Conduct for Teams and Fieldworkers in Guatemala (May 2019 version)
1. Be humble and modest. When in a developing nation, North Americans tend to stand out. We
ask that you serve in a quiet, humble, and modest way.
2. Be respectful. Treat others with respect. This includes when taking photos, visiting homes, and in
everyday conversations. Strive to live by Ephesians 4:29 - Do not let any unwholesome talk come
out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that
it may benefit those who listen.
3. Crude language is not acceptable. Please be careful to talk with discretion.
4. No smoking, drugs, or alcohol are permitted.
5. No complaining of any sort will be tolerated. If you are offended by someone, go to that person
directly (Matthew 18:15-17). Bring all unresolved conflict to whomever is placed in direct
authority over you.
6. Live honorable and Christ exemplifying lives.
7. Be law-abiding in all activities and abide by the Spirit of Christ when law and conscience are in
conflict.
8. Cheerfully submit to spiritual and managerial authorities in Guatemala.
9. Accomplish all tasks with excellence to the best of your ability.
10. Be dedicated to serving rather than being served, honoring others rather than seeking honor for
yourself.
11. Be kind and forgiving. Keep confidences and refuse to speak evil of each other.
12. Be cheerful, prompt, and reliable in carrying out assignments and responsibilities. Be
cooperative in all work undertaken
13. All team meetings must be attended. Punctuality is an expected courtesy.
14. Be appreciative and sensitive to your hosts. Please present a courteous and thankful spirit.
15. Please accept any food that is offered to you. Receive it gratefully. Try to eat or take it with you
if need be.
16. For fieldworkers serving for a longer term: No romantic relationships are to be cultivated in the
first year of service in Guatemala. This is your time to focus on serving others and building
platonic relationships.
7Dress Code
Your personal appearance should always be of a high standard, modest, and glorifying to the Lord! Hair
should be properly cut and groomed and of a natural color. Dyed hair is allowed only if it is in a natural hair
shade or color. Clothing should be neat and clean. Body piercing, other than ladies’ earrings, is not
acceptable among Christians in Guatemala. Therefore, please remove any other piercing for the duration of
the trip. If you have a tattoo, it will need to stay covered the entire time you are in Guatemala. Tattoos carry
a very negative connotation in Guatemala, and we do not want anything to stand in the way of the work that
the Lord wants to do through you.
Please follow this code in the strictest sense as you begin accumulating what you will wear in Guatemala.
General Guidelines – Women
● Women may wear loose fitting pants or capris, but no shorts. All skirt/dress slits must NOT reveal
the knees.
● Women may wear dresses or skirts that cover the knees.
● Be cautious of slogans/pictures on clothing.
● Women should have nicely groomed hair that is a natural color. Dyed hair that is not a natural
color is not acceptable.
● Women’s shirts can be sleeveless but must be modest (loose fitting, NOT LOW CUT, and long
enough to cover the body (tummies cannot show when arms are raised.) Thin tank tops and
spaghetti straps are NOT allowed.
General Guidelines – Men
● Men may wear loose fitting pants or longer shorts.
● Men’s t-shirts must have sleeves (muscle shirts are not permitted).
● Men should have short nicely groomed hair. Longer hair in males is viewed very negatively in
Guatemalan culture. (Hair should be shorter than shoulder length.)
● Wear clothing that you do not mind getting soiled.
● Be cautious of slogans/pictures on clothing.
During Services in Churches
● Women may wear dresses or skirts that cover the knees or loose fitting dress pants.
● All skirt/dress slits must NOT reveal the knees. All tops must have sleeves. (capped
sleeves are fine)
● Men must wear a dressy-type shirt with a collar or golf shirt with a collar (No t-shirts)
and dress pants , neat khaki cotton pants or new looking dark denim jeans.
● Everyone must wear clean shoes or sandals.
8Tattoos and Nose piercings
● Tattoos are looked on very negatively in Guatemalan culture and therefore must be
covered up at all times.
● Nose piercings are not acceptable and must be covered over with a band-aid or tape
while out in the culture
FIELDWORKERS INTERACTING WITH MISSION
TEAMS
Even though your main responsibility may not be working with mission teams, you will probably have
opportunities to share activities with teams. Perhaps it will be joining them for home visits, translating at the
hospital, driving the group to activities, etc. Whatever the activity, Impact Ministries would like to establish a
few guidelines for this interaction so that it is positive for both you and the group you spend time with.
Dress Code - Be a good example
When teams are in Tactic they are required to strictly follow the dress code as outlined in the Mission
Handbook. This is the same dress code that is established for fieldworkers, but sometimes, fieldworkers
forget or “relax” the standards when they are lounging about. It is very important that you are within the
expected dress code when you interact with groups.
Giving Direction
Please do not give directives to teams; leave this up to the Guatemala Hospitality Staff and the Team
Leaders. You may not be aware of instructions that have already been given, issues that are important at the
moment, or extenuating circumstances that need to be taken into account. It is always better to defer to the
Hospitality Staff and Team Leaders; this will ensure conflicting messages are not given. Because you are living
and working in Guatemala, the team will look to you as the “expert.” Be cautious, although and always defer
to those who are responsible for the team.
Media
When a team is in Guatemala, they are on a media fast. If you are interacting with a team, you, too, must
refrain from using media. Cell phones can be used to communicate regarding the team activity, but should
not be used for other purposes while with the team. Music CDs or radio should not be played in the vehicle
while traveling. You are free to use media again as soon as you are no longer with the team.
9Discourse
When talking with a team it is important to always set the example for the group in the way you behave and
speak. If conversations are moving in the wrong direction, gently steer them back on course. Remember,
they see you as the missionary and will follow your example.
REQUESTING ITEMS FROM TEAMS
Impact Ministries hosts many short term mission teams each year. These groups often act as couriers for us –
ministry mail; child sponsorship packages; etc. They also bring down items that we, as a ministry, need, like
electrical wiring that is not available here. Being able to ask groups to bring items to Guatemala is a privilege
that we are careful not to abuse and there are some guidelines that you, as a fieldworker, must adhere to.
Depending on the job you are doing in Guatemala, you may have access to email addresses and contact
information for team leaders, but we ask that you not make direct contact with them unless instructed by
the ministry to do so. All ministry requests need to go through our Canada or United States office (team
coordinator). At no time is a fieldworker to take it upon themselves to communicate with a group what the
ministry needs. You are always to refer them to the Canada or United States office (team coordinator) as the
ministry needs change over time and the office knows what the priorities are at that moment.
If you are a personal friend of someone coming on a team – that is to say you know them outside of the
context of the ministry – it is fine to ask them a personal favor and request something you would like to have
for yourself (for example – brown sugar – an item you cannot find in Guatemala). It is not okay, however, to
ask them to bring something for the ministry. Again, all ministry requests need to be routed through the
United States or Canada office (team coordinator).
10FINANCES
All United States and Canadian personnel serving with Impact Ministries in Guatemala raise their own faith
support. Impact Ministries USA is an IRS 501(c)3 non-profit charitable organization and Impact Ministries
Canada is a CRA non-profit charitable organization and all donations of support will be tax receipted.
For fieldworkers who are committing to a placement of more than 3 months an approved application will be
held until such time that the Fieldworker can demonstrate that a minimum of 70% of the finances included
in the Donations and Expenses Report (DER) are pledged or submitted to cover Impact Ministries costs. Only
at such a time as these arrangements are confirmed will the application be activated and arrangements for
placement and travel be completed.
For fieldworkers who are committing to a placement of less than 3 months an approved application will be
held until such time that the Fieldworker has made financial arrangements with the Fieldworker Coordinator
which will be reflected in the Donations and Expenses Report (DER). Only at such a time as these
arrangements are confirmed will the application be activated and arrangements for placement and travel be
completed.
In addition a stipend may be arranged if required. The Fieldworker Coordinator can explain this in further
detail as requested. Please note that stipends will only be issued as funds are raised to meet the stipend
level.
You can access your North American account with a bank card, as long as your PIN is only 4 digits in length.
Credit cards are also accepted at the larger grocery and department stores.
Administrative Fees
Impact Ministries charges a 7% Administrative Fee on all monies processed through our offices. This fee
covers basic office expenses as well as provides support to fieldworkers both prior to their time in Guatemala
and during their stay.
Ground Costs
Ground Costs will be discussed in the application process. Additional in country transportation costs will
apply and will be calculated based on the fieldworker itinerary. The Fieldworker Coordinator will advise and
provide information as requested.
Ground costs are to be submitted to the appropriate Impact Ministries office a minimum of six weeks prior
to departure date. These costs take into consideration the resources needed to maintain a place of ministry
and the everyday expenditures that will be incurred during the fieldworkers time in Guatemala.
11Spending Money
1. Fieldworkers should arrive in Guatemala having already exchanged Dollars to Quetzal so that
they have sufficient personal spending money to manage expenses for at least three weeks.
(approximately Q2,000).
a. Impact hospitality staff may not be able to quickly and easily provide an opportunity
for fieldworkers to obtain Guatemalan funds when they first arrive.
2. Fieldworkers coming for a short period of time (three weeks or less) should come prepared
with sufficient Guatemalan funds for their duration in the country.
3. Fieldworkers coming for more than three weeks:
a. Should arrive with an initial amount of spending money (as per point #1)
b. The ACMI hospitality staff will arrange for the fieldworkers to access a local
automated teller so that the fieldworker can make cash withdrawals.
i. If the fieldworker is staying with a host family, the hospitality staff will
delegate this responsibility to the host family.
c. Fieldworkers should be aware that:
i. It is their responsibility to ensure that their personal bank systems are
connected internationally through the “Cirrus” or “Interac” networks
ii. the daily limit from Guatemalan ATMS is Q2,000
iii. Each withdrawal incurs a service fee or about $8 (more or less depending on
your bank policy).
iv. Some ATMs in Guatemala may only receive a 4 digit password. If the
Fieldworker has a password of more than 4 digits, they should change this
before leaving N.A.
v. Sometimes the local ATM machines run out of money or are out of order. This
can potentially cause a delay for several days.
Stipend
A Stipend is an allowance that is provided to the fieldworker from their raised support to cover incidental
expenses not included in ground costs. Stipends are generally provided to fieldworkers who are in the
country longer than three months. Stipends are issued by the sending organization.
The following is a list of some of the costs not covered by the Ground Cost:
● Lodging and travel to and from the International Airport from which your flight is booked in the
Canada or the United States
● Meals before reaching Guatemala
● Travel documentation (passport application, passport photo or passport holder, or related visa
documentation,and possible lawyer fees, etc)
● Travel to and from the country of Guatemala
12○ If you have adequate support from ministry donors prior to departure, air transportation
may be provided by Impact Ministries.
○ If you are donating out of pocket for your airfare and you desire a tax receipt for travel
expenses, arrangements must be made through the sending office, contact the office
directly for more details.
● Expenses related to personal travel
○ Renewal of Tourist Visa (every 90 days)
○ Day trips
○ Any travel not directly needed for your ministry duties (travel to and from schools is not
included in grounds costs, it can be ~$4/day to travel between Tactic and the schools
outside of Tactic)
● Food while in Guatemala if not on the meal plan, or snacks outside of the 3 meals provided each
day on the meal plan
● Personal spending money
● Cell phone, chip, and time (If bringing a phone from it must be unlocked to work internationally
and should be one that is not desirable to steal (leave your newest generation name brand
phone at home - it will make you a target for theft) otherwise you can purchase an inexpensive
phone in Guatemala
● Internet services of any kind (USB stick can be purchased and recharged in country to have
WiFi/internet service)
TRAVEL
It is important for you to determine what kind of travel documentation you require to travel to Guatemala.
You definitely need a valid passport, but depending on your nationality, you may also require a pre-approved
Visa. The cost of travel documentation and any legal fees related to it is your responsibility.
Impact Ministries is happy to help you secure airline tickets and, depending on your level of support, the cost
of the flight may be covered. If you prefer, you are free to make your own travel arrangements, but be sure
you coordinate your arrival and departure dates with the Impact Ministries. Flight insurance is optional but
suggested and the cost is your responsibility. If Impact Ministries is booking your flight, be sure to indicate if
you want insurance.
Once you arrive in Guatemala, Impact Ministries will be at the airport waiting for you. The expense
associated with pick up and drop off at the airport can be covered through raised support.
Every Fieldworker is required to have out of country medical insurance. Check with your current carrier to
see if your existing medical coverage has provision for out of country medical emergencies or if you need to
purchase supplemental insurance. It is good to photocopy the policy and keep a copy on your person at all
times. Ensure you have a copy to your emergency contact person.
13SPIRITUAL PREPARATION & DEVOTIONALS
Preparing for your mission experience involves more than just packing your suitcase. It is critical that you
prepare your heart before the Lord so that He can use you for His purposes as well as teach you new things.
Part of that preparation is simply spending time daily reading the Word and praying. Another huge part is
spending time with your pastor, so that he/she can speak into your life and provide you with the care before,
during and following your time in Guatemala. Another component to your spiritual preparation is selecting
and meeting with your prayer partners. And, finally, the devotionals included in the appendix of this
handbook are specific for your preparation to work in a developing country like Guatemala. These
devotionals are most effective when completed in the journal you will be bringing to Guatemala with you.
SPANISH
There are 23 official languages in Guatemala, but the most predominant is Latin American Spanish. Impact
Ministries highly recommends studying Spanish prior to coming to Guatemala to work as a fieldworker. There
will be many situations where you will be required to communicate without a translator and having at least a
rudimentary amount of Spanish would be very helpful.
TIMELINE
The following timeline has been prepared for you to keep track of your progress as you prepare to serve in
Guatemala for a longer period of time.
Before You Apply
● Discuss your desire to serve with your family.
● Meet with your pastor.
○ Discuss your desire to serve for a longer period of time
○ Ask for his/her advice
● Pray about committing yourself for a longer period of time
Your Application
● Complete the Fieldworker Application form and submit to Impact Ministries
● Provide your reference with the link to the Recommendation which will be submitted online
14Once Accepted
● Complete and submit the following documents prior to booking flights
○ Fieldworker’s Service Agreement - CANADA
○ Fieldworker’s Service Agreement - USA
○ Release Forms
○ Canada - Police Information Check including Vulnerable Sector Screening - The FW
coordinator will provide you with a letter that you can take to the agency that will do the
screening check.
○ USA - Criminal Record Check - Follow this Criminal Record Check link to find information
on Local Police Check and FBI Records Check options.
● Begin preparing yourself spiritually
○ Spend time daily reading the Word and praying
○ Complete the attached devotional package
○ Read a few missionary biographies
● Meet with your pastor again
○ See how the church wants to be involved
● Be sure your passport is valid for the duration of your intended stay in Guatemala. Guatemala
requires a passport to be valid a minimum of 6 months after entry into the country.
● Prepare a letter to send to family and friends explaining what you will be doing and giving them
an opportunity to support you in prayer and/or financially.
○ See sample letters
● Make arrangements for your flight.
○ Contact the Fieldworkers Coordinator fieldworkers@impactministries.ca to discuss flight
bookings
● Identify one or two spiritually mature people who can be your prayer partners.
○ Meet with them a few times prior to your departure.
○ Communicate with them while in Guatemala.
○ Meet with them a number of times after your return.
● Prepare yourself for the culture of Guatemala
○ Study about the geography, people, religions, history, etc. of Guatemala.
Once Accepted and Prior to Departure
● Make an appointment to see your doctor and/or a travel clinic regarding health precautions and
immunizations for Guatemala.
● Purchase Out-of Country Medical Insurance for the duration of your stay in Guatemala.
15APPENDIX ONE: WHEN HELPING HURTS
ASSIGNMENT
Impact Ministries - Fieldworker Reflective Assignment
Once you have completed this assignment share it with Martha Sawatzky, Fieldworker coordinator
at: fieldworkers@impactministries.ca
North Americans are blessed in many ways; materially, vocationally, educationally and spiritually. These
vast blessings bring great responsibility. Throughout scripture God has commanded believers to show
compassion and care for the poor (Matt. 25:31-46, Gal. 2:1-10).
1 John 3:16-18 (NIV) says:
16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our
lives for our brothers and sisters. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in
need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? 18 Dear children, let us not
love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.
You are stepping out in obedience to this scripture as you come to Guatemala to work with Impact
Ministries. It is the desire of Impact Ministries to serve the people of this country in a manner that brings
restored relationships in the Kingdom of God. We wish to bring about restored relationships in all areas
of the lives of the people with whom we come in contact, both the local people and North Americans.
To understand the true definition and impact of poverty and the ways in which believers should
appropriately respond, we ask that each Fieldworker read When Helping Hurts by Brian Fikkert and Steve
Corbett, Moody Publishers, 2012. Before beginning your reading, take some time to answer the
Pre-reading Questions – Part One. The book is available through Amazon.com.
As you serve with Impact Ministries you will begin to understand that the model used to minister in this
culture is based on ministry philosophies that are well explained in this book. We hope that by reading it
prior to your arrival, you will more quickly understand and process the challenges that North Americans
face when confronted with profound poverty. It will also allow you to assist North American short term
mission team members that you may come in contact with to identify the spiritual richness that so often
exists when people need to rely on God for their most basic needs. We hope that you will be able to
identify the spiritual poverty that often exists in a materially wealthy society where many, believers
included, rely on self rather than God.
We ask that you prayerfully work through the following readings and questions. We desire that you grow
in a deeper understanding of missions to the poor and, as a result, you are encouraged and better
equipped to minister wisely. You will also be able to understand and work within the guiding parameters
that Impact Ministries has chosen to follow.
Although the reading and assignments are based on only four chapters we ask that you read the entire
book as there is much value in the additional readings. Thank you as you partner with Impact Ministries.
16Part One
Pre-reading thoughts - Prior to reading this book make a few notes answering the following questions.
You do not need to submit these answers - they are for you to look back on once you have completed
the book and to use in your final reflection.
In point form jot down your thoughts re: these questions:
1. Why did Jesus come to earth?
2. What is poverty?
3. How do you expect to bless the people of Guatemala?
4. What skills, abilities and resources do you bring?
5. What is the purpose of your ministry with Impact Ministries?
Part Two
As you read Chapter 1 - Why did Jesus come to Earth? take note of the following in order to
answer the reflective questions later.
1. Why did Jesus come to earth? How does this match with the definition you gave prior
reading this chapter?
2. In light of this, how might you, as a follower of Christ, live your life in a way that reflects
his purpose? Be specific.
3. Why is the expansion of the gospel sometimes more effective among the poor?
4. What concept surprised you most as you read this chapter? Why?
Part Three
As you read Chapter 2 – What’s the Problem? reflect on the following:
1. What is poverty? How does this match with the definition you gave prior reading this
chapter?
2. How do poor people express how poverty affects them?
3. How do North American people define poverty?
4. What negative consequences can arise as a result of the mismatch between an
outsiders’ perceptions of poverty and the perception of the poor?
5. Describe the four relationships that need to be complete and healthy so as to fulfill our
calling by God?
6. Review the answers you gave to the pre-reading questions, do you see any ways that you
suffer from a “god-complex?” If you do, what specific steps can you take to change this?
7. How can you help you frame your ministry role as one as servant, not hero, as you
prepare for ministry in Guatemala?
Part Four
As you read Chapter 4 – Not All Poverty is Created Equal take particular note of the following:
1. What are the differences between relief, rehabilitation and development?
2. Think about the people with whom Impact Ministries works. Do you think Impact
Ministries is primarily providing relief, rehabilitation or development?
3. What are the different types of paternalism?
4. In what ways can a missionary exhibit each type of paternalism that are described in this
chapter?
175. How can you prepare yourself to avoid paternalistic attitudes?
6. Describe the advantages of working within the established structure of an organization
such as Impact Ministries.
Part Five
Read Chapter 7 – Doing Short-Term Missions Without Doing Long-Term Harm.
Think through what you read in this chapter as well as the earlier chapters to answer the
following:
1. This quote comes from page 159:
“How can the STM team discover local assets – including knowledge about survival
strategies – in the context of a two-week trip? The answer to this question is not
obvious, but a good first step is for the STM trip to be done as part of a long-term,
asset-based, development approach being implemented by local ministries. The STM
team needs to understand how it fits within the overall strategy of this local ministry and
take care not to undermine this ministry’s effectiveness.”
Although this quote applies to a Short Term Team it can also apply to a Fieldworker. How
will you prepare yourself to effectively minister under the guidance and leadership of
Impact Ministries as the local ministry? How will you avoid undermining Impact’s
effectiveness in this community?
2. In the section titled Training for Success on pages 165/166 there is an encouragement to
commit to pre-trip, on the field and post-trip training. What plans do you have in place,
or would you like to put in place, in order to allow God to do life-changing work in your
heart?
3. Finally, please provide any thoughts re: what you have learned as you have read through
When Helping Hurts. How do you think this will impact your ministry? Looking back on
your pre-reading notes, would you answer those questions in the same way now?
18APPENDIX TWO: DEVOTIONALS
It is very helpful to not only read the scriptures listed, but write them out in a journal, along with the
answers to the questions.
Take a Look in the Mirror
As you prepare for service in the foreign mission field, it is good to take the time to examine yourself and
your daily walk with the Lord.
Read Ephesians 2:10 and Psalms 139:13-16
According to these two passages, who are you?
How should knowing this affect the way you live your life?
How do these passages affect your thinking specifically regarding this mission experience?
Making God a priority in your life can be a challenge. Your life is busy, full of all kinds of commitments and
activities. It is vital, however, that God take His rightful place in each day. Take some time to reflect on the
things that take up time in your day.
Read Psalm 5:1-3
According to this passage, how is the psalmist David recommending you begin your day?
What does this tell you about the character and nature of God?
The Bible clearly demonstrates how we, as believers should live.
Read Joshua 1:7,8
What is the Lord’s message for Joshua? Is it also a message for you?
How can meditating on God’s word impact this mission experience?
Setting goals is an important part of growing with God.
What goals do you have to improve your daily walk with God?
How do you expect this ministry experience to help you grow spiritually?
Ask the Lord…
19Pray that God would light a flame within you to be in His Word. Pray that as you seek Him in the morning
that you would find Him faithful. Ask the Lord to show you His desires for your life and specifically for this
mission trip. Ask the Lord for a fresh understanding of who you are in Him.
Great Expectations
Just think about it…God has made preparations, laid out the plans, set events into motion for this mission
experience you are about to begin, and He created you for this purpose!
Read Matthew 28:19,20 and Acts 1:8
It says that when you became a Christian, you were given the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit has given
you power to be a witness of God…A person who has seen and will see the work of God.
Is every Christian a witness?
Make time to journal about your experiences – what you saw and experienced, what God is teaching you,
how you saw God move, and how you are feeling. Ask God to show you what He is doing and then tell others
what He has shown you.
Write out your expectations for this mission trip.
What do you hope for?
What do you want?
At the end of the mission trip, come back to what you wrote and see if God has done more than you asked
for or imagined!
Ask the Lord…
Tell God about your expectations. Ask Him to prepare you for all that He has planned. Ask the Lord for
opportunities to witness to others about what He is teaching you.
Miracles
Technology is a wonderful thing! With the click of a mouse or the push of a few buttons, we can watch
movies instantly on our computers and access the internet on our phones. We can post status updates and
check on our friends across the street or around the world. In this age of youtube, twitter, iphones, and
Skype, communication is something that we’ve come to expect…something that we take for granted. While
God is able to speak and make His message clear in any format, He still likes to communicate the “old
fashioned” way. He chooses to speak through people, whether we feel they are qualified or not.
Read Acts 3:1-16
20God used three unlikely people to rock an entire community! First, Peter and John were going about their
normal routine of visiting the temple for afternoon prayers. Their path led them to a brief encounter with a
dirty, crippled beggar. Through the power of the Holy Spirit the crippled man was healed, and suddenly,
everyone wanted to listen to his story! God used the beggar to show His power and speak to the people in
the community.
Read Acts 4:1-14
Then, in response to the commotion and the miracle that occurred, the Sanhedrin (council of church leaders)
took note of Peter and John – untrained, uneducated men in their eyes. Even they could see that they had
been with Jesus. (vs. 4:13-14) There was no way to deny it!
Spending time with Jesus will result in life change that others will be able to see. It will give you a story that
has to be told. You may not be perfect, but God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things!
Ask the Lord…
Ask God to do a work in you and then through you. Submit yourself to him, and be willing to do whatever it
is He leads you to do. Ask Him to empower you with His Holy Spirit, so that you will be equipped and ready.
Givers Not Takers
People are more important than things. Eventually things fall apart, rust, break and are thrown away, but
people last forever. What are your best memories? Chances are, your most memorable times probably
include people.
Jesus said that it is best when people remember us as “givers,” not “takers.” Paul was preparing to leave
friends he had made on a mission project. They had become so close that they hugged and cried when Paul
had to leave them. While he was with his friends, Paul reminded them that he loved them dearly. He had
worked hard to help those in need. Those he helped would remember Paul as a “giver,” not a “taker.”
Read Acts 20:13-38
What methods of transportation did Paul use on this mission trip (vs 13-16)?
How did Paul serve the Lord when he was with the Ephesians (vs 19)? What do you think this means?
What was the message Paul gave to both Jews and Greeks (vs 20-21)?
In what ways would the Ephesians remember Paul (vs32-38)?
How do you want those you are going to serve on this mission experience to remember you?
How does God define a “giver?”
21Read Mark 10:45 and John 13:2-18
How can you better exhibit a servant’s attitude?
At home? At church? With friends?
What personal attitudes do you need to adjust in order to have a servant’s heart while on this trip?
Here’s a list of things you can give/ways you can serve: encouragement, thanks, praise, physical help, a
listening ear, prayers, gifts, friendship, and much more.
List several ways that you can be of service on this trip to…
Host/Missionaries. Nationals.
Ask the Lord…
Pray that the Lord would enable you to take your eyes off of yourself and truly be a servant to others while
on your mission trip. Ask that your heart would be broken for what breaks His. Pray for a spirit of love and
compassion.
Cross-Cultural Training
In preparing for this mission experience, you will need to gain a better understanding of how to
communicate cross-culturally in order to be the most effective servants of Jesus Christ on the mission field.
Cultural differences can cause feelings of frustration, confusion, tension and embarrassment if you are not
prepared for them.
● The people speak a different language
● They eat different foods
● They wear different clothes
● The sanitation may not be up to North American standards
● Driving can be crazy
● It is a noisy culture
Some of the cultural differences you’ll experience in Guatemala are very subtle, but they will impact your
time there.
● The people are relational, not task-oriented. They place the relationship with the person over
the task that needs to be accomplished.
● This affects punctuality, as building and maintaining relationships will supersede being on time
for an event.
22Because you are the one visiting their culture, it is your responsibility to adjust and make the necessary
changes. It helps to remember that the Guatemalan people desire our friendship first; our help is of
secondary importance to them. So, relax and enjoy whatever is happening at the time without worrying
about things that cannot be changed.
Read Isaiah 41:9,10 and 1 Corinthians 9:22,23
How can we appreciate, rather than be frustrated with, the differences of another culture?
What choices must we make as we experience a new culture?
If you have not already done so, spend some time researching the country of Guatemala – its history, people,
geography, religions, culture, languages, etc.
Ask the Lord…
Pray that you will emulate openness, trust and acceptance to the Guatemalans. Ask God to give you
understanding and compassion for the nationals you will meet. Ask God to help you connect with the people
through your smiles and the love of God. Love always transcends cultural differences!
23APPENDIX THREE: SUPPORT APPEALS AND
COMMUNICATION
All support that Fieldworkers raise must go through either the Impact Ministries Canadian or US sending
organization’s donation platforms. All support will incur a 7% administrative charge. In some cases the
sending office will create a campaign which will allow donors to give to a specific Fieldworker’s support
online. A link to the appropriate donation page will be provided to the Fieldworker which can be used in
communication that they send to potential supporters. If donors would like to send a check to the
appropriate office they can do so by including a note designating that the funds are for a specific Fieldworker
and sending them to either:
IMPACT MINISTRIES CANADA
PO Box 975
Kamloops, BC V2C 6H1
IMPACT MINISTRIES USA
PO Box 550
Duvall, WA 98019-0550
As a representative of Impact Ministries, approval of group communication such as blogs, support letters and
newsletters must be secured from the Operations Manager or other designated supervisor prior to sharing
that communication.
24APPENDIX FOUR: RESOURCES
Visit the Missionary Care website at http://www.missionarycare.com/ for many great free resources that you
may find helpful in your missionary journey.
In particular take a look at this online document titled What Missionaries Ought to Know
Here is the PDF version of What Missionaries Ought to Know
25You can also read
