by Katherine Parker
Last Sunday I joined worship at Solong Kandal Church, and then we continued with the Mobilizing the Church study. I brought a local translator, Nara, with me. He was a good group leader and we had a very dynamic workshop, but a bad translator since he kept forgetting to keep me in the loop. So, I just had to struggle along with my own understanding for most of the day (luckily I basically knew what we were doing). The congregation at this church is really warm and welcoming, and I always feel like a member of the family when I visit. Here is a quick update about the status of their project development.
Last time I visited Solong Kandal (church of Pastor Sophean) we talked about the past outreach activities of the church and a bit about their future plans. Currently, they worship in the house of one of the members. It is a very simple house, the type that is often translated to be a cottage (meaning it has walls made from woven palm leaves, rather than bamboo slats or wood, but it did have a mettle roof which is nicer than thatch, but not as nice and hotter than tile). They are currently looking for a donor(s) that will support them to build a brick church (about $30,000). One of the church members has agreed already to donate the land.
The church members are very active and have done a lot of work to raise funds themselves for various things and are engaged in a lot of visitation ministry (to the poor, alcoholics, etc.). This time, we were talking about "outsiders", and how we can be more welcoming to folks different from us. It really struck me about how marginalized Christians are in Cambodia when I asked about visiting people with AIDS. They said that there are folks with AIDS in their community and that, yes, they have gone to visit them. I asked if they experienced that people sometimes look down on people with AIDS. They answered yes, but also that sometimes the people with AIDS looked down on the Christians. Wow!
They have also been collecting rice through their Sunday offering and also a first-fruits offering (this village grows 2 crops of rice a year since they are close to the river and it is easy for irrigation). Recently they sold most of their rice and bought a small paddy field (50m^2) for $580 that will be used to grow rice to raise additional money for the church. They hope eventually to have about 5 hectors of land to use for supporting the church, but they are starting small according to their ability to buy rather than waiting without action until a donor materializes. CHAD has really been promoting the concept of "seed projects", and it is amazing to see a church that is really putting it into practice.
They are asking CHAD to partner with them to purchase some farm equipment (such as a hand tractor or threshing machine) that they can rent out, also as a small business venture to raise funds for the church. Since this is a much more costly investment that CHAD usually engages in (about $3000), we are moving very slowly and making sure that everything is in place first. We are continuing with group formation through Mobilizing the Church and developing a clear plan so that we do not create a situation of dependency. I have high hopes for success because the pastor is a former business woman and they keep clear records already.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
A savings & credit group
On Saturday I visited the church of Lun Sokom, here is a quick update about the project at this church.
About a year ago they started a saving group in the church. The 20 members of the group (both Christians and non), each save 1000 reil ($.25) every month. They have also been giving out small loans of about $15-$25 to the members (repayable in 3 months). Three members took loans last year in order to buy feed to start raising chickens. They pay 3% interest. According to an earlier plan, they would start the savings group and after they demonstrated it's success, then CHAD would come in to provide additional capital (around $500), which would allow the group to give larger loans out to the members. I went to evaluate their progress and also to introduce the curriculum "Mobilizing the Church", which is a bible study designed to facilitate group formation.
The group has been functioning successfully so far. However, before we contribute to the capitol, they need to have the group by-laws in writing, so that there is a clear understanding about what will happen when folks enter or leave the group, etc. We also want to formalize their record keeping. Finally, the group suggested that they open an account with Acelde Bank since they will now have a larger sum of money that needs to be handeled. Step by step we can see progress.
About a year ago they started a saving group in the church. The 20 members of the group (both Christians and non), each save 1000 reil ($.25) every month. They have also been giving out small loans of about $15-$25 to the members (repayable in 3 months). Three members took loans last year in order to buy feed to start raising chickens. They pay 3% interest. According to an earlier plan, they would start the savings group and after they demonstrated it's success, then CHAD would come in to provide additional capital (around $500), which would allow the group to give larger loans out to the members. I went to evaluate their progress and also to introduce the curriculum "Mobilizing the Church", which is a bible study designed to facilitate group formation.
The group has been functioning successfully so far. However, before we contribute to the capitol, they need to have the group by-laws in writing, so that there is a clear understanding about what will happen when folks enter or leave the group, etc. We also want to formalize their record keeping. Finally, the group suggested that they open an account with Acelde Bank since they will now have a larger sum of money that needs to be handeled. Step by step we can see progress.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Reflections on my journey as a GBGM Missionary
by Ken Cruz
A year ago, as I was traveling from Cambodia to New York to attend my missionary orientation and training at Stony Point, I contemplated upon some of the ways in which I expected this training to impact my life and ministry. I joined GBGM not as your typical fresh-out-of-college rookie or a budding missionary eager to build a career in missions. I was already someone who has been in the mission field for a considerable time. Hence, I was not expecting to learn much, intending only to fulfill the formalities required to become a fully-commissioned GBGM missionary.
However, this all changed during the training itself, where I was confronted with some of the most provocative revelations about mission, which I have ever encountered. Most vividly etched in my memory was my encounter with the idea of “mutuality” in mission. This concept about missions seeks to encourage an approach of interdependence and covenantal relationships. Dr. Jacob Dharmaraj and his wife Glory capture this image in their words when they say that:
As a missionary from a Third World country I am honored to work with my brothers and sisters in the West and in Cambodia as we bring God’s transforming love to the people of Cambodia. By the grace of God, our partnerships with the ministry to the poor has enabled us to touch lives, heal the sick, feed the hungry and provide hope in many communities in Cambodia where the Methodist congregations are present.
I am truly grateful to be your hands and feet in God’s vineyard!
A year ago, as I was traveling from Cambodia to New York to attend my missionary orientation and training at Stony Point, I contemplated upon some of the ways in which I expected this training to impact my life and ministry. I joined GBGM not as your typical fresh-out-of-college rookie or a budding missionary eager to build a career in missions. I was already someone who has been in the mission field for a considerable time. Hence, I was not expecting to learn much, intending only to fulfill the formalities required to become a fully-commissioned GBGM missionary.
However, this all changed during the training itself, where I was confronted with some of the most provocative revelations about mission, which I have ever encountered. Most vividly etched in my memory was my encounter with the idea of “mutuality” in mission. This concept about missions seeks to encourage an approach of interdependence and covenantal relationships. Dr. Jacob Dharmaraj and his wife Glory capture this image in their words when they say that:
“Christian mission is a back-and-forth movement, between senders and receivers, older churches and younger ones, missionaries and believers, listeners and speakers. Mission is a dynamic interchange between giving and receiving, serving and being served, us and them.”
As a missionary from a Third World country I am honored to work with my brothers and sisters in the West and in Cambodia as we bring God’s transforming love to the people of Cambodia. By the grace of God, our partnerships with the ministry to the poor has enabled us to touch lives, heal the sick, feed the hungry and provide hope in many communities in Cambodia where the Methodist congregations are present.
I am truly grateful to be your hands and feet in God’s vineyard!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Ken's reflection on the inauguration of the 44th president of the USA
Just like Obama, God promises hope. And that is what everyone is waiting for, hope. Even though they announced the time of the inauguration would be noon, the people came early and were waiting urgently. People were willing to sacrifice; they were coming from miles and miles.
If we only had that urgency of waiting for the 2nd coming of Christ, this world would be a different place.
I just hope I can wake up each morning with that anticipation; I will be running and running.
-- Ken
If we only had that urgency of waiting for the 2nd coming of Christ, this world would be a different place.
I just hope I can wake up each morning with that anticipation; I will be running and running.
-- Ken
Thursday, January 15, 2009
A new school
Sam Oeurn, assistant pastor from Spien Church, stopped by our office today to share about his new business. He has just purchased a school he named LTS (Language and Technology School). He wanted to know if we would come and participate in the ceremony to welcome students for the new semester.
It was a novel request for me, but as Oeurn shared more about his vision for his church and for Cambodia it became clear. Oeurn's dream is three fold: 1) that folks will have the knowledge for a better life, 2) that folks will have the resources to accomplish their dreams, and 3) that the church will have good leadership.
It is big investment for Oeurn, a young man in his 30s, to buy and run this 10-teacher school with 250 students. (There have been 50 new students in the last month since he took over operations!) I know that he prayed a lot before taking this step. But I understand that his vision is big and that he doesn't see this as running just another school in Cambodia. He sees it as a way that he is living out his faith. We are all involved in building a better world (in religious terms: The Kingdom of God), and Oeurn sees his part in this as providing education for kids in his community.
I think it is exciting to see a young Cambodian take his faith seriously and listen to how it influences major life choices. And I applaud him for being able to articulate how this step is helping him to live an authentic life true to his vision and calling.
It was a novel request for me, but as Oeurn shared more about his vision for his church and for Cambodia it became clear. Oeurn's dream is three fold: 1) that folks will have the knowledge for a better life, 2) that folks will have the resources to accomplish their dreams, and 3) that the church will have good leadership.
It is big investment for Oeurn, a young man in his 30s, to buy and run this 10-teacher school with 250 students. (There have been 50 new students in the last month since he took over operations!) I know that he prayed a lot before taking this step. But I understand that his vision is big and that he doesn't see this as running just another school in Cambodia. He sees it as a way that he is living out his faith. We are all involved in building a better world (in religious terms: The Kingdom of God), and Oeurn sees his part in this as providing education for kids in his community.
I think it is exciting to see a young Cambodian take his faith seriously and listen to how it influences major life choices. And I applaud him for being able to articulate how this step is helping him to live an authentic life true to his vision and calling.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Service
Ken and Thy visited a church in Kompong Chhnang yesterday to disburse funds for a rice bank. The son of the pastor prepared the lunch meal for them. It was a wonderful and humbling experience for all. When Katherine and Thy visited last month, he was so sad and didn't engage, so it was exciting this visit to see him animated. The son is living with AIDS and lost his wife to the disease last year. Ken said, "It is very humbling; those who are supposed to be served are serving."
Monday, December 22, 2008
Christmas Greetings from Irene
Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Firstly, to thank you all for your prayers and messages of support. These have encouraged, inspired and motivated us and we continue with our progress.
Two new missionaries joined the Community Health and Agriculture Development (CHAD) team and what a difference this is making. Jim Gulley is continuing to provide back up support. His expertise and wisdom are much appreciated.
Secondly, on a very personal note, reflecting that this time last year I went to Zambia to nurse my daughter-in-law Jessica. God blessed our time together but He took her home on December the 28th. My grandson, Mutumwa came back with me to Cambodia. At 4 years old, Mutumwa is my pride and joy, full of delightful mischief and has many words of wisdom for "Gogo". My son, Tichafara is currently visiting us and for me now the challenge would appear how best at my age to play mother to “my two boys.”
Rev Bonny
I have to share with you about Rev Bonny, a remarkable woman whose dream is to see Cambodia become a nation of Christians. Hired by the UNDP in1992, to do community development in Battambag Province villages, she came to understand that God had something even more important for her and resigned to go to bible school.
Rev Bonny was appointed a District Superintendent (MMC) in 2005 for Battambag and is teaming with us in CHAD to develop in her pastors a holistic ministry. She is intensifying efforts to help the sick –building relationships with service providers. What leverage this to the poor who need health care and it will help us to get more work accomplished!
New Director
Our new country director, Rev Dr. Romeo del Rosario (Romy) from the Philippines arrived in August – thanks to GBGM, New York. Romybrings a wealth of experience to the Methodist Mission in Cambodia. His humility, love for the common people and sense of humour are like shining beams of light. In him we have a role model and mentor.
Wells of Living WaterIt was providential that several opportunities for refreshment and renewal came to me in the later half of the year. Leadership Training at Haggai Institute, a missionary retreat in Kompong Som, the regional meeting for SE Asia and Pacific and the visits by Richard Bishop, Edith Gleaves and Jungrea and Rachel from GBGM, New York all helped to rekindle my spirit and renew commitment.
Time to talk Health CareKen Cruz, a missionary from the Philippines, has taken over responsibility for community development and Katherine Parker, a missionary from the US is now responsible for agric development and financial administration.
I am free, at long last, to concentrate on the health care ministry – the joy of my life!
It has been great having Medical Teams from sister churches within the region- Singapore, Malaysia and Korea who have pioneered the work since the inception here. It is also gratifying that USA based UMVIM teams have joined in the work. The teams are helping us both to expand our ministries and to manage the demand for care.
We are currently working in Battambang orienting pastors to Development Theology and holistic ministry. At the same time we are preparing for a seminar for Good Samaritans next January-to provide a Biblical foundation for their work. I am thankful for Karen, a sister in Christ coming as Individual Volunteer from Western Pennsylvania to assist in my work.
We continue working in Kandal where we have completed training pastors for advocacy in healthcare and just started training Good Samaritans (Health Volunteers). We are busy with field visits to prepare ground work for Medical Teams from Louisiana and Rocky Mountain who will visit early next year. The teams will treat the sick and share the Good News with village communities in Kompong Chhnang and Kratie Districts. We are also building links with health departments; training translators, prayer warriors and various other volunteers in the provinces and churches that will host the teams. Altogether, we hope to follow up all the hospital referrals after the teams’ visits and assist people to follow through with treatments – how daunting!
Indeed the harvest is bountiful. Pray that the Lord of the harvest sends more labourers. Pray also that I may have wisdom to fulfill my family and work responsibilities; and for understanding and courage to tackle life’s intricacies.
Wishing you health, peace and joy at Christmas and throughout the coming New Year!
In Christ,
Irene
Firstly, to thank you all for your prayers and messages of support. These have encouraged, inspired and motivated us and we continue with our progress.
Two new missionaries joined the Community Health and Agriculture Development (CHAD) team and what a difference this is making. Jim Gulley is continuing to provide back up support. His expertise and wisdom are much appreciated.
Secondly, on a very personal note, reflecting that this time last year I went to Zambia to nurse my daughter-in-law Jessica. God blessed our time together but He took her home on December the 28th. My grandson, Mutumwa came back with me to Cambodia. At 4 years old, Mutumwa is my pride and joy, full of delightful mischief and has many words of wisdom for "Gogo". My son, Tichafara is currently visiting us and for me now the challenge would appear how best at my age to play mother to “my two boys.”
Rev Bonny
I have to share with you about Rev Bonny, a remarkable woman whose dream is to see Cambodia become a nation of Christians. Hired by the UNDP in1992, to do community development in Battambag Province villages, she came to understand that God had something even more important for her and resigned to go to bible school.
Rev Bonny was appointed a District Superintendent (MMC) in 2005 for Battambag and is teaming with us in CHAD to develop in her pastors a holistic ministry. She is intensifying efforts to help the sick –building relationships with service providers. What leverage this to the poor who need health care and it will help us to get more work accomplished!
New Director
Our new country director, Rev Dr. Romeo del Rosario (Romy) from the Philippines arrived in August – thanks to GBGM, New York. Romybrings a wealth of experience to the Methodist Mission in Cambodia. His humility, love for the common people and sense of humour are like shining beams of light. In him we have a role model and mentor.
Wells of Living WaterIt was providential that several opportunities for refreshment and renewal came to me in the later half of the year. Leadership Training at Haggai Institute, a missionary retreat in Kompong Som, the regional meeting for SE Asia and Pacific and the visits by Richard Bishop, Edith Gleaves and Jungrea and Rachel from GBGM, New York all helped to rekindle my spirit and renew commitment.
Time to talk Health CareKen Cruz, a missionary from the Philippines, has taken over responsibility for community development and Katherine Parker, a missionary from the US is now responsible for agric development and financial administration.
I am free, at long last, to concentrate on the health care ministry – the joy of my life!
It has been great having Medical Teams from sister churches within the region- Singapore, Malaysia and Korea who have pioneered the work since the inception here. It is also gratifying that USA based UMVIM teams have joined in the work. The teams are helping us both to expand our ministries and to manage the demand for care.
We are currently working in Battambang orienting pastors to Development Theology and holistic ministry. At the same time we are preparing for a seminar for Good Samaritans next January-to provide a Biblical foundation for their work. I am thankful for Karen, a sister in Christ coming as Individual Volunteer from Western Pennsylvania to assist in my work.
We continue working in Kandal where we have completed training pastors for advocacy in healthcare and just started training Good Samaritans (Health Volunteers). We are busy with field visits to prepare ground work for Medical Teams from Louisiana and Rocky Mountain who will visit early next year. The teams will treat the sick and share the Good News with village communities in Kompong Chhnang and Kratie Districts. We are also building links with health departments; training translators, prayer warriors and various other volunteers in the provinces and churches that will host the teams. Altogether, we hope to follow up all the hospital referrals after the teams’ visits and assist people to follow through with treatments – how daunting!
Indeed the harvest is bountiful. Pray that the Lord of the harvest sends more labourers. Pray also that I may have wisdom to fulfill my family and work responsibilities; and for understanding and courage to tackle life’s intricacies.
Wishing you health, peace and joy at Christmas and throughout the coming New Year!
In Christ,
Irene
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