We are currently in Cambodia’s annual dry season and it has been an intense one this year. According to the government, it’s been the hottest season in 170 years — most days have been nearing 40 degrees but there’s also a “Feels like” temperature, due to the humidity, that creeps towards 50 degrees.
It can be an extremely difficult time for many Khmer people, especially those who have to work outside. The state schools have had their hours shortened and, in some classrooms, water is being pumped into them so that the children can have their feet in water while trying to learn.
Please pray too for the Khmer people who will be struggling under the conditions.
We keep an eye on our health and make sure we’re drinking enough water, but there are some other effects that are surprising:
- The ink in the printer clogs easily
- The tyres on our bikes deteriorate rapidly
- A power pole near us caught on fire and cut off the internet to half the houses in the area
Highlights
The church plant that we are a part of has been going well. We have a great core of regular attendees and there is increasing fellowship outside of the Sunday meetings. There is always a need for volunteers for different aspects of church life, but in general, people are in good heart and we feel it has had a good start.
The main church minister and his family are currently away for three months. Please pray that they return refreshed and enthused for ministry life here.
Pray also for deepening relationships and a love for one another despite all our differences.
The Khmer church that is based in the boy’s student dormitory has been active for the past few months. They regularly have 20–30 young people each week and it’s lovely to see this coming to fruition. Nehemiah has been leading this and has a reservoir of boundless energy.
It’s been a delight to get to know the boys in the dormitory. I’ve (Neill) had to pause meeting with them due to various schedule changes but hopefully, this will pick up again soon. Pray that the Gospel message is taught faithfully in this church. Pray too that the young Khmer men and women who attend will grow in faith to know Jesus.
Back in Easter, I am excited to say we had some wonderful baptisms! We combined the English and Khmer speaking services, rigged up a pool on the 4th floor of our building, sang songs in both languages and celebrated together as a church family. It’s probably one of the most encouraging things that we’ve been able to be a part of while here and we pray for many more. Give thanks for those who professed their trust in Jesus at this time.
Life in Cambodia
Recently we had the privilege of being invited to the reception for a Cambodian wedding. Two pieces of advice given beforehand were, “Don’t sit near the speakers” and “Don’t eat the food”. The first one we listened to and were grateful for the fact! The reception catered for 700 people and the music was incredibly loud. We were as far from the speakers as you could go and could still only hear the person right next to us at our table. Alternatively, we did eat the food and did not regret it, including one item on the menu called “Biting Beef” containing red ants. Num num!
One other delight is that the movie theatres recently showed the entire Lord of the Rings trilogy — it was lovely being able to take Jonathan and Aaron along (Emily wasn’t too interested!) and see these fantastic films on the big screen.
Give thanks
- That the church plant is up and running.
- That our children are enjoying their time at Hope School.
- For the baptisms over Easter.
- That hot season is almost over!
Please pray
- For Nehemiah — especially for wisdom in knowing when he is pushing himself too much.
- For people who have found the hot season physically and emotionally draining.
- For our friends the McLaughlin family who are currently in the States spending time with family and support churches.
- That Hope School can find the required teaching staff for the new school year in August.
Photo Gallery
Thank you, Tessa. I remember Ray (and Jean) very warmly from our time at St Tim’s before we left for St John’s College at the beginning of 1987, and was excited many years later to learn of their visit to the Elliotts in Uganda. (We visited them in 1997 on study leave.) That visit, and a later one, showed their quiet growth in faith and mission during the years. I praise God for Ray’s life and service, and pray for the Comforter’s presence to be so close to Jean.
Hey there,
A friend of mine told me about you guys and I’d love to come along on Monday!
Cheers,
Caleb Croker
Hi Caleb, I’ve just seen your message. I apologise that this was missed. I assume you’re talking about the Seriously Interested in Mission group? The next one is August 11 and we’d love you to join. Can you email us at office@nzcms.org.nz (Rosie writing here)
Thank you Tessa
Thank you Archdeacon Fran. Mothers Union appreciated your input when we visited the Far North recently. Your wisdom and wise counsel made it a memorable weekend. God bless you in your new role.
Rev Fran, you and Rapiata are a gift to the Church. May the Lord bless you as you serve in this next season
With reference to the article ‘By invitation not invasion’. My husband and I were involved with CMS from the 1960s onward and this was always the attitude of CMS leadership. They deferred to the church leadership opinions whenever possible, wherever there was a local church. I’m not aware if this has change. It isn’t something new.
Hi Pauline,
I agree with you!! I don’t think this has changed, just good to re-iterate why and we send mission partners. This is Rosie writing — hope you’re doing well!
Yes Pauline it was the same for Alan and me. When we went to Singapore 1966–69 it was in response to a request from the Bishop oof Singapore and Malaya.