Wild and Wonderful: Tourism, Faith and Communities

After logging thousands of miles in planes, jeeps, dugout canoes, pickup trucks, bicycles, and on foot, LeQuire and du Plessis offer insights into how Christians around the world are using tourism to develop their villages while caring for both creation and culture. Based on a multi-year research project, this book showcases innovative projects that Christian villagers and faith-based organizations are engaging to alleviate poverty through business ventures. Through a unique mix of travelogue and theological reflection, this book concludes with a challenge to the status quo of current short-term mission practice and provides thoughtful alternatives. "I've long been a fan of Stan LeQuire and his tireless labor to bring shalom to God's wondrous yet beleaguered creation--both people and planet. With Wild and Wonderful, he and Chantelle du Plessis continue that ministry by bringing critical analysis and insight into the growing field of ecotourism and, even better, connect it to our Christian faith."--Tom Rowley, Executive Director, A Rocha, USA "If you are looking for ways to helpfully engage the poor of the Third World that are theologically informed, culturally sensitive, and respectfully creative, you will have to give this book two thumbs up." --Tony Campolo, Professor Emeritus, Eastern University "This useful book will help you plan a trip with a purpose. Highly recommended!" --Nancy Sleeth, cofounder of Blessed Earth and author of Almost Amish "It sounds too good to be true: economic development to reduce poverty in a way that protects the environment and respects indigenous cultures--while offering stunning experiences and spectacular sights for eco-tourists. But it is happening. This delightful, carefully researched book tells encouraging stories and offers helpful analysis on how to expand and improve this exciting, important development." --Ronald J. Sider, Senior Distinguished Professor of Theology, Holistic Ministry and Public Policy, Palmer Seminary, Eastern University "FINALLY a significant, creative, respectful approach for short-term missions. Moves beyond charity and good feelings. Examples are powerful and compelling.A must for anyone who wants to make a difference locally or globally." --Jo Anne Lyon, General Superintendent, The Wesleyan Church Stan L. LeQuire teaches sustainable development in Eastern University's School of Leadership and Development. LeQuire is a past director of the Evangelical Environmental Network (EEN) and has published an anthology of sermons on creation care called The Best Preaching on Earth. Chantelle du Plessis is a South African who lives in Bogota, Colombia. With Andres Umana, she owns and operates the tourism business Andes EcoTours. She is a graduate of Eastern University's masters program in international development.Read less