Cultural Notes

Cross Cultural notes

As we leave the U.S. to do missions, we leave behind the things that are familiar to us (clothes, music, language, customs, etc...)  It will be helpful for us to remember some things.

Things to remember
  • Remember that we are the strange ones. You will be the minority.  We are the one with the unusual perspectives, the funny accents.  We are the guests in another person's world.  We must respect these other people by not criticizing or in any way putting them down.
  • Remember that lack of education, lack of money and resources does not mean people are not bright, thoughtful, or resouceful.
  • Remember that Jesus had a strong preference for the poor ("Blessed are the poor for theirs is the Kingdom of God").   The poor tend to have a much greater insight into spiritual things.  They may be way ahead of us who are "rich" in the things Christians really value.

THINGS TO WATCH
-Watch Speech. Do not put anyone down.  Do not refer to them as stupid, funny, backward, or silly.  That only shows your negative attitutdes and says more about you than it does about them.  Always assume the people around you understand everything that you say and are listening to your every word.  They certainly are and they are watching your every expression and action.  they are picking up on your attitudes.
-Watch Your Expressions.  Your facial expressions may say the opposite of what you are saying, especially in regard to food.  if there is something you don't like, quietly let it pass by, or eat some and wash it down with something you like.  Taste everything.  You may really like it.
-Watch Your attitudes. Prayerfully examine yourself daily.  Ask, "Do I think that I am better than these my brothers and sisters?  Do I think that because I have money, clothes, and things that I am smarter?  Do I think American ways of worship are superior? Do I think I am brighter because i know how to read?"  Submit your attitudes to the lord and ask forgiveness.  Let your team members speak to you about any negative attitudes you may be displaying.  They are doing you a favor.
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DO
Do refer to the pastors as pastors! e.g. Pastor Jean, Pastor Lubin, Paster Joel, Pastor nido, Pastor Bill.  To not do so would be offensive.
-Do be gracious guests.  Always thank your host and hostess for meals and acts of kindness.  Expressions of appreciation matter. 
-Do ask permission when taking pictures.
-Do be courteous to airline agents, waitresses, drivers, baggage handlers, customs agents, cooks, vendors, shoe shine men, and beggars.
-Do dress nicely for church. Men: shirts and ties.  Women: dresses.
-Do dress modestly.  Women: no pants or shorts in church.  No bare shoulders (spaghetti straps, etc.).  No rude sayings on clothing. (e.g. Co-ed Naked Wrestling, etc.)  No advertising of beer, alcohol, or tobacco on clothing.
-Do put yourself in their shoes.  Develop a compassionate heart.  View people as Christ does.  "Love your neighbor as yourself."
-Do join into the joyous expressions of worship
-Do stick together and ask your leaders if you have any questions.
DON'T
-Don't take someone's picture at an embarassing moment.
-Don't be overly loud and boisterous. Remember there are other people around.
-Don't ever be rude. You represent Christ and the American Church from the moment you leave the parking lot to the moment you return.

Hear the Word of the Lord:
"Appreciate those who diligently labor among you and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction
...live in peace with one another
...encourage the fainthearted
...help the weak
...be patient with all
...rejoice always
...pray without ceasing."  1 Thessalonians 5:12-17