Our Ministries: Country Living
Left: A beautiful ripe papaya tree with some bananas growing in the background.
The Vision
We've been told to leave the cities. The question on the minds of many so convicted is often "How?" - Through education and a solid example, the vision of our country living ministry is to teach the skills needed to plan, move and live in the country. We believe in and teach a total reliance on Christ to supply all our needs as we do our part by first seeking the kingdom of heaven and His righteousness through the faithful use of time, talents, and means.
Country Living Facilities
The Samana Mission Project has been planned and constructed with setting an example in mind, both for locals and for our visitors. Economy and efficiency have been kept in the forefront as we've put our best into the work. Thus, the property itself doubles as an entire "country living facility" through our examples of different types of homes, kitchens, bathrooms, workshops, gardens, orchards, etc.
Country Living Programs
Note: The following is offered as an overview of the vision in mind as we work out the details of each course offered. Should you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for any or all of the courses, direct them our way and we look forward to receiving them.
We have 7 classes to choose from within our Country Living program, each designed with a student/teacher ratio of 6-to-1 in mind for optimal learning experience. A brief list appears below, with detailed descriptions of each class following after.
Planning the Move: "How?" and "Why?" -
Creating a Country Income
Education in the Country
Gardening, Farming, and Orchards
Cooking in the Country
Country Construction
Health Care in the Country
Planning the Move: "How?" and "Why?" - There are many sincere Seventh-Day Adventists who are unfamiliar with Sister White's very plain counsels to "leave the cities". While we are to continue to "work the cities", it is clear beyond all doubt that the cities of the world today are no place for us and our families to be living. In this introductory course we teach the principles behind a move to the country. As it is a life altering experience, it's to be thoroughly planned and wisely executed under God's guidance and direction. This course is especially intended to aid our brothers and sisters living in the cities within the D.R. who often have very little in the way of "resources" or "know how" to make such a move possible on their own. The concept of cooperation (working together) is especially essential.
Creating a Country Income - Many face fears of being unable to support themselves and their family should they leave their job in the city. The object of this course is to educate each participant with "tent maker" principles by offering practical, hands on examples of ways to create and sustain sources of income in the country. This includes industries such as agriculture, furniture making, welding, crafts, construction, medical work, and more.
Education in the Country - Some fear that their children's education will suffer if taken from a city environment. In this course we seek to lay solid Biblical principles for education and give hope and encouragement to each parent as they seek the best for their children. Many families are unfamiliar with the blessings of "home-schooling" done right; namely, by putting God first and last and best in everything. Through the resources we've been blessed with and by example, we seek to teach principles of education that will build character for eternity.
Gardening, Farming, and Orchards - Sadly, few Seventh-Day Adventists today have had the God-given privilege of watching a garden of their own labors awake and blossom to a bountiful harvest of flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Through this course it is our purpose to teach solid, Bible-based principles of agriculture that will put to use the wondrous resources God has provided for us in nature. The Samana Mission itself serves as an amazing example for all to see of God's blessings upon His creation.
Cooking in the Country - Here in the Dominican Republic the standard diet includes a small portion of beans with a large portion of white rice, a little meat and very little or no vegetables along with lots of fried food and starches. Our mission is to share the art and science of healthy cooking through this course and by solid principle and delicious example, we seek to give encouragement and hope to those discouraged by "healthy living" as well as motivation and inspiration to those who've yet had opportunity to try.
Country Construction - While there are many ways to "build a house" or any type of building, for that matter, the Biblical principles are universal. Our programs, while teaching technique and building theory, focus especially on imparting solid principles into building construction, including proper ventilation and lighting, economy, resourcefulness, sanitation, etc. Especially kept in mind is our desire to teach participants how to work with what the land provides, wherever they may be. Can't afford or have no access to concrete block? Make your own, or use stone! None of that? You can form solid blocks out of clay and straw. The examples abound.
Health Care in the Country - Last on the list and certainly not least, we offer participants a course in health care. The principles, while adapted especially for life in the country, are Biblicaly solid and carry universal application. Through instruction and hands on example, participants are guided towards a solid understanding of God's 8 health laws and their daily application in our life. This course covers natural remedies, hydrotherapy, emergency care, and much more.