About the Church in Antarctica

Antarctica is the most isolated place in the entire world. At the McMurdo Station, there are a large number of scientists, researchers and support staff who conduct studies on the "ICE" year round. There are approximately 400 scientists who "winter over" for 1 year at a time. These scientists are composed of geologists, astronomers, glacierologists, physicists, meteorologists, construction workers, medical personnel & mechanics. During the South Pole summer months there are close to 2,400 people who are there. There is a non denominational chapel on Antarctica where denominations are able to reserve the chapel for worship. Our goal is to reach out to those who serve at the McMurdo station.

For the past year, the RS7 Antarctica team has been conducting extensive research and making many contacts with people and organizations that might help reach those working on Antarctica. Since all U.S. Antarctica operations travel through Christchurch, New Zealand, we are prayerfully considering this area for a strategic church plant that will meet the pressing needs in Christchurch while also launching a ministry based on the “ICE.”. Spiritually, Christchurch is searching. The city has experienced over 7,000 aftershocks since the earthquake that struck earlier this year and some residents have lost multiple homes. The goal is for the new church to reach Christchurch and focus its mission efforts on Antarctica. We are currently discussing this plan with the International Mission Board (IMB) for strategic guidance

Mission Trip Opportunity:

Auckland and Christchurch, New Zealand
Dates: February 2012 (Tentative)
Approx. Cost: $4,000.00 (Passport cost not included)
Cost Includes:  Round trip airfare from Orlando. Personal Visa, meals, lodging, ground transportation and travel insurance.

PURPOSE OF TRIP TO NEW ZEALAND
To work with individuals who are going onto the ice and coming off of the ice in Christchurch, New Zealand through Skype access to families, cyber church maintenance, thumb drives, providing supplies to those going onto and coming off of the ICE.

PURPOSE OF TRIP TO US BASE STATION MCMURDO,  ANTARCTICA
It is very difficult for people outside of the scientific realm to get approved access to this station. Because of this, we plan is to take a crew onto the "ICE" to film a documentary on the life of the scientists, researchers and support staff. This will help us better understand how we can  minister to them & meet their needs. Ultimately leading them to Jesus Christ. This team is limited to four pre-selected individuals based on their qualifications regarding the filming of the documentary.

ANTARCTICA MISSION TRIP TEAM MEETINGS
There will be several team meetings for those going on the trip. These meetings will be scheduled & announced through. the FBC Worship Guide, FBC Website, our Missions Office and through our Connect Groups.

PRAYING FOR THE CHRISTCHURCH & ANTARCTICA:
Pray for a partnership for the RS7 Antarctica church plant.
Pray for a contact that works with Antarctica projects based in Christchurch or on the “ICE.”
Pray for the team going to Christchurch next year.

Ways You Can Give:
Blankets - $20 each
Mp3 players - $50 each
Chocolate Bars - $10

Staff Continent Leader: Ryan Choate
Lay Continent Leaders: Ed and Jessica Gaskin

Supporting Connect Groups
Acts 29: Living Sent
Adult II
Home and Family
Victory Lane

Let us know if you would like more information or would like to sign-up for the RS7 Antarctica Team.