Battambang, Cambodia

June 21, 2006

Hello all-- First of all, “Thank you” to all of you who have sent such encouraging words regarding this mission to Cambodia. Thank you for the support in both prayer and finances.

God has been very real in his blessing so far. Travel was safe and continues to go well. Even riding double on the back of a motor bike through muddy roads without a helmet and in sandals. Hold on tight! The people continue to amaze me. Their commitment to Christ, love for one another, and compassion for others is inspiring. Many live in desperate situations. Food is difficult and work even more scare in the villages. One young house church leader shared that some families in his village do not have enough rice from their own fields to last through the rainy season. Some even go days without food, and it breaks his heart when the children go hungry. Some move to Thailand to find work to support their family.

The Bible Institute is beautiful. Three new buildings were completed this year. Two are for housing (men and women) and another with 4 classrooms, a library and office space. Rainwater is recycled from the buildings into a water reservoir. A new kitchen was also constructed to feed the church leaders as they come for training twice a year. Teaching Galatians and James has been a challenge (how do you translate a goofy sense of humor?) and yet an immense joy. I learn so much from these church leaders and thoroughly enjoy the interaction and discussions. The library of yet is empty. So few Bible reference books or commentaries have been translated into the Cambodian language. I would love for us to find ways to get learning resources for these hungry pastors and leaders. It might be that provide technology so they can record the teachers on CD, as they come, so they can listen to the instruction whenever they need.

Many of you know Don and Bridget Brewster. They are pioneering work in Phnom Penh in the areas of justice and compassion in ministering to young girls trapped in the commercial sex trade (prostitution). We will be able to partner with AIM as they provide housing, care, rehabilitation and vocational training for girls rescued from life on the streets.

If you are still sending in financial support, it will go to some immediate needs we’ve discovered while here. There is a village church that we just dedicated last Sunday that needs to complete a clean water well. The property was purchased with a well dug and casting built but it needs to be drilled deeper and a pump installed. It can be completed for as little as $200 and a high quality pump purchased for around $1000. This well can provide water for this village in the name of Christ.

I will upload pictures as I can this page. If not, check back later.

Miss you all and you are in our prayers.

Preah Protem Po (God bless you),

Troy