Dress Code:
It is our desire that the following guidelines not be viewed as “just another set of rules”; but rather a source of freedom from the distraction of following worldly fads. This mindset helps us focus on the greater work God has for us in ministering to those we meet. We should be willing to sacrifice personal preference and comfort for the blessing of others. We desire to maintain a consistent witness for our Lord and not be a stumbling block to anyone. Please ponder this as you consider the following items.

1. Brethren shall provide leadership in dress by wearing distinctive, separated attire.
A. Shirts and pants should be opaque and loose fitting. We will not wear T-shirts or sport knit shirts (Polo shirts). Dress clothes should be worn with shirt tails tucked in when evangelizing. Long-sleeved shirts should be worn for Sunday morning services.
B. We will avoid the cowboy look and image, therefore no western wear. Hats are not to be worn while evangelizing unless needed for health reasons such as in cold weather. Their use should be approved by the administration.
C. Casual dress identifies us with the casual spirit of our time and does not contribute to respectful, reverent worship, or to alert, watchful Christian living. The hair should not model the current style of being cropped, or shaven on the side, with a mop on top. Beards, if worn shall not be goatees, or doughnut beards. Sideburns should not extend down past mid-ear.
2. Sisters shall have uncut hair modestly covered by an opaque veiling concealing most of the hair. Subdued colors, not sheer, bright, or shiny, are appropriate for dress materials. We desire to be modest in both pattern and color. A modest cape-dress, or vest-dress shall be worn with the skirt reaching at least halfway between the knee and sole, and ample enough to conceal the body’s form.
3. We encourage sensitivity toward our audience in the type of clothing we wear, and how we present ourselves in general. Please avoid expensive-looking clothing so we can better relate to these people on their level.

 

Phone & Electronic Device Use:
1. While serving with ABM, phones are to be used as a tool, not as a toy, or for entertainment. We expect all volunteers to honor your home church position for all computer use; email; and internet; etc.
2. Please remember, you are coming to minister to the migrants, not to maintain an up-to-date connection with family and friends.
3. We require ALL devices to have an accountability program, and/or filtered/restricted internet access.
4. We plan to have regular accountability times for all volunteers. Men with men, and ladies with ladies.
 

Personal Conduct:
1. For maximum impact among those we serve; our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being is of utmost importance. Since God is the ultimate source of life in all three areas, our commitment to spending regular quiet time with Him is not optional.

This is crucial to each one’s total well-being.
A. Therefore, we commit to being very intentional, and to following the guidelines below for how we use our time.
B. We will refrain from unprofitable activities such as watching movies or meaningless screen time; but rather spend our time in meaningful conversations, spiritual development, and rest-time for our body, mind, and soul.

2. We will not tolerate tobacco, drugs, alcoholic beverages, and foul language since they mar the testimony of any professing Christian.
3. Please respect the personal conviction of fellow volunteers. We come from various backgrounds and cultures. Serving away from home is not the time to flaunt our liberties in music, dress, etc. but is a time to serve one another. Gal 5:13 Team unity is our goal. We can accomplish much more when we pull together.

4. We will avoid the use of musical instruments and their recordings.
5. We ask that each volunteer take responsibility for his/her laundry and general housekeeping, including making their bed each morning.
6. Due to the nature of our work, and for security, posting personal information of the migrants on social media or online is strictly prohibited.
7. There is to be NO sharing of personal contact information between the volunteers and the migrants of the opposite gender.
8. We encourage you to share your testimony with the people we are working with, but it is very important to NOT pressure them, or speak condescendingly to them. Even handing out literature should be done discreetly and carefully.

9. Respect for the authority of the board, administrator, house parents, and team leaders, etc. is required, regardless of your level of understanding of, or appreciation for what is being asked.
10. Due to the nature of the work and the daily, close interaction of the team, we do not accept dating couples serving together. There will be no special boy/girl relationships begun during your time with ABM.
11. Due to the need for getting a good night’s sleep, and respect for other staff, we practice a 10 pm curfew unless otherwise announced.

Off-Duty Time:
1. Group meals are provided per the team’s schedule, and are group time, not personal time.
2. Volunteers shall attend Sunday and mid-week church services and be willing to participate.
3. Unless they are sick, volunteers shall attend staff devotions; debriefings, share-times, prayer-times, etc.
4. Please communicate with the Administrator about time spent away from the base.