“Culture shock” is defined as a feeling of disorientation or confusion that often occurs when a person leaves a familiar place and moves to an unfamiliar one.

It is often brought on by the anxiety of losing all familiar signs and symbols of social interaction. These signs are ways in which we orient ourselves to different situations in life: when to shake hands, what to say when we meet people, when and how to give tips, how to give orders to waiters, how to make purchases, when to accept or refuse invitations, etc. These cues, which may be words, gestures, facial expressions, customs, or norms are acquired by all of us in the course of growing up and are as much a part of our culture as the language we speak or the believes we accept. That is why many international students relate they felt like a child again when coming to the U.S. When you enter a new culture, all of most of these familiar cues are removed. You will probably experience frustration and anxiety.

Doing cross-cultural ministry is difficult and requires more than a sense of calling. It requires a broad set of skills and a healthy approach to life and ministry. We have gathered useful resources falling into the following categories.

• Preparing to Launch

• Building a Support Team

• Cross-Cultural Life

• Transitions, Cultural Adjustment & Re-entry

• Third Culture Kids

• Grief, Suffering Trauma & Risk

• Spiritual Warfare

Please don't hesitate to reach out to anyone on the Care & Development Team if you have further questions on these or any concerns. We are here to help!