by Sue, Bay City Church, Sydney
Cambodia’s first impressions hit with hot humidity, chaotic bikes & tuk tuks. On our first day, Pastor Andrew Harper motivated us with a speech and prayer while travelling to Peam Village. At the freshly painted English school, we were greeted by teachers Sreisros, Sreyka & Dalen teaching 20 students in a single classroom of shy but eager kids.
Pam and Kathy led an English class and played pass the parcel game, leaving kids grinning from gifts plus ice-creams to cool them. With emotional hearts, we prayed over the teachers then enjoyed a delicious lunch at Sala Bai Hotel.
The next day, we visited Roun TaArk village, welcomed by Pastor Da outside the new blue building amidst barren land with unfinished structures, recently earthed vegetation. One can envision the potential holy fruitfulness here. We enjoyed an incredible spiritual worship which uplifted the people. Craig gave an inspiring testimony, and feelings of gratitude swept the room as we handed out clothing items.
Over lunch, Richard shared an encouraging testimony, whilst we were fed like kings and queens at a laden banquet amongst beautiful gardens. At night, we were treated to never ending delicious smorgasbords at the Amazon Restaurant whilst enjoying a visual variety night of traditional cultural storytelling dance.
On our third day, we visited Masel’s Saturday School at Leong Dai Village. Our longest drive followed by a short walk was greeted by echoes of excited kids. The children separated into different age groups for games and activities. We then performed an original song of worship to God. We ended the day finishing with kids in hysterics winning Tug O War. We then enjoyed a home cooked dinner feast to celebrate Mom’s birthday.
We worshipped at New Living Hope AOG Church on Sunday. Pastor Andrew preached to the congregation and I was honoured to sing The Blessing with Rob on guitar. We then had fellowship lunch with Pastor Chhay. We then returned to Peam Village for their Sunday School. Gina, Kathy and I performed another original created song of worship. The day closed with another Tug O War with the children winning with much laughter.
For our fifth day, we toured around and visited three incredible temples, including the Angkor Wat and Bayon with the funny and knowledgeable Mr Khemra. We ended with a dramatic comical storytelling night at Phare Circus.
On our last day, we went for a brief visit to KGM youth centre and back to Kok Thmey to distribute food packs. Francis shared an emotional testimony and we helped distribute packs of groceries.
Although our journey was ending, this story is just beginning as members are already yearning to return and bring others to experience God’s work.
