Working on in the Community

The recent "no evangelism" ban has been a real reminder that the door is open today but could be closed at any time.

But we continue to witness everyday in other ways. Our home has become a make shift clinic for some local kids. When they get injured they come to our house to get fixed up. It has been a priviledge to care for them. This boy burned his leg while riding a moto. It was starting to get infected when he came to our house. He came by a few days later to show us how well it was healing!




I continue to teach the book of John 3 days a week. About 75% of the students are not believers yet, though I see signs of repentence and fruit in some.



Please pray for us as we teach and care for the Cambodians. Pray for our students as they hear the Gospel call.

God Bless,
Bill

Evangelism Banned in Cambodia

I am sad to report the Ministry of Cults and Religion has made a new directive banning all public evangelism. Including door to door witnessing, passing of tracks, and open air broadcasts. We are still free to worship and preach inside the church property.

They have released numerous radio and TV broadcasts in the last week to make the public aware. If churches continue to evangelize they will first be warned. The second time the church in violation could be closed.

Here is a bit of the news;

"All public proselytizing activities are prohibited. Christians are not allowed to proselytize citizens' houses by knocking on doors or waiting for them, saying "the Lord is coming" which is an interruption to daily life or may intrude on privacy in the community."And then: "Teachings of religions must respect other religions and avoid insulting and degrading each other, especially Buddhism, the state religion.

"Minister of Cults and Religion Chea Savoeun said last week that the new directive is a prudent move. "People have complained a lot to the Ministry of Cults and Religion over this issue," he said, adding that some Christian groups have been accused of "looking down" on other religions and disturbing people in their homes.

Chheng and I though saddened by this are encouraged by God's providence. Our afterschool teaching program draws in about 150 students per day. We preach the gospel to them daily. The Lord lead us to start this program before any of this happened with the government and we are thankful for His provision. Here is a link to the whole article that summarizes the ministry's position. Please continue to pray for Cambodia.

http://www.camnet.com.kh/cambodia.daily/selected_features/enva.htm

Bill