The Global Witnessing Challenge

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. -- Did you love following the "Amazing Race" on television? Would you like to follow something which could tops that for Christians and perhaps "up the bar" for global evangelization at the same time?

According to a news release, a new opportunity for international evangelism is available in the Global Witnessing Challenge (or "The Challenge").

It was launched earlier this month by its founder and designer, Andre Illemann of New Zealand. Illemann said the original idea came to him unexpectedly about five months ago, and God has continued to deeply im press him ever since with the concept.

Speaking in the news release Illemann said, "One of the main purposes of 'The Challenge' is to fire up 'ordinary' Christians to become extraordinary ambassadors for Christ. Providing them with the vehicle ... to travel the globe, and put to good use the talents and the faith they have been blessed with."

According to the news release, "The Challenge" involves Christians  traveling the world in teams of two, with whatever means and resources are available to them, to proclaim the Good News of the Gospel. They will share the Gospel with willing listeners, using whatever innovative and creative tools to which they have access.

The news release said that teams, composed of "ordinary" believers from the church worldwide, will choose one from several groupings of countries around the world, through which they will travel and share their faith.

Regardless of whatever grouping they choose, all teams will visit a minimum of 10 countries, including each continent on the globe. Teams are responsible for raising their own sponsorship to pay for their expenses.

The first "Challenge" will be in April 2010, and take five months to complete.

Illemann said in the news release, "The Lord willing, I hope it will become a sought-after annual event and grow in popularity, evidenced by growing numbers of participating teams and passionate followers. Time will tell, but we've got to make a start somewhere. Everything begins with a seed. That's where faith comes in. With God nothing is impossible, and believe me I have to trust in Him for this!"

The daily news and results of teams will be broadcast by blogs and video clips on the official web site.

The news release said a bonus points system has been initiated to further motivate participants, and to acknowledge the difficulties of sharing Christ's love in more difficult locations and situations. Awards will be made at the end of the event to winners of different witnessing categories.

According to the news release, "'The Challenge' will undoubtedly present the greatest physical, spiritual, mental and emotional tests most participants will ever have experienced. Individuals' faith will be tested and stretched throughout their epic journeys as never before."

According to the event organizers, there is a role for everyone with "The Challenge."

For more information, go to www.gwchallenge.com.   

By Jeremy Reynalds - ASSIST News Service