Bradbury Quest Goals & Key Themes
Having participated and led short term mission trips for over 20 years, we realize that one thing remains the same. Impoverished nations face a reality of infrequently-met needs. Occasionally, these gaps are filled by mission groups looking to “plug the holes†that, in return, provide the participant with a sense of immediate results. Yet after years of participating in such service endeavors, we wonder if we shouldn’t be asking different questions. It seems that, in order to be part of a sustainable mission transformation, we must address issues connected not only with service, but also those relating to justice. Sadly, many organizations fail to address the systems that perpetuate the ongoing needs they seek to fill. In order to look differently at this pursuit, there must be clarity about the difference between service and justice.
Service is something we do FOR others. Justice is something we do WITH others.
Service is an event. Justice is a lifestyle.
Service expects results immediately. Justice hopes for results sometime soon, but recognizes that systemic change takes time.
The goal of service is to help others. The goal of justice is to remove obstacles so others can help themselves.
Service is serving food at the local homeless shelter. Justice means asking why people are hungry and homeless in the first place and then doing something about it.
*Adapted from Fuller Youth Institute article on “Deep Justice.â€
In order for us to respond to the complexities of brokenness in Haiti, we need to ask the question, “Why?†To hear the voice of those who have no voice, we must prepare ourselves for a long-term journey that is marked by listening and interacting with the social systems that shred individuals of their dignity. Likewise, we need to face the realities of our own participation in those structures and systems that strip opportunities and hope from the marginalized and the poor.
It means not only asking why, but also being prepared to act on the answer. We believe the gospel includes restoration of all things broken (Colossians 1). So out of a love for and a response to the teachings of Jesus, we envision a multi-dimensional faith-filled response which includes sustainable models of agriculture, micro-finance, education, medical and social development.
Key Themes
Relationships. Through hospitality, make ourselves available to live, listen and celebrate life with several Haitian communities. We desire to nurture a deep trust and relationship with existing communities mark by mutual honor, love, trust, hope and remembrance of God’s faithfulness.
Partnership. Identify and develop an emerging team of Haitians who share a collective vision towards long-term hope and restoration in Haiti.
Vision-casting. Provide opportunity for a vision to be articulated and gather necessary leadership to uphold that vision.
Networking. We do not need to “reinvent the wheel.†Meet with existing in-country organizations that provide a sustainable response to existing broken structures and systems. Develop ways to utilize their expertise, and make connections with community leadership teams. In this way, we seek to assist in developing in a network of already existing organizations who share a particular expertise.
Courage-lending. Intentionally seek opportunity to lend courage and hope to those lacking vision and direction. Seek practical ways of affirming gifts and leadership. Provide encouragement to the local church, through practicing the presence, participation and teaching.
Community development. While working with leadership from local churches, explore opportunities for
future development and hope-filled enterprises.
Key Outcomes
1. Identify “Team Hope,†a Haitian leadership team who share collective vision for partnership.
2. Visit and establish two or three new locations for long-term sustainable vision and development through existing pastoral and church leadership.
3. Network and strategize for incorporating current sustainable organizations—making contacts with leaders and communities.
4. Establish and strengthen Haiti H2O relationship with existing non-government organizations.
