Update from the Becks in Cambodia

Written by Daren and Jodi Beck Wednesday, 04 November 2009 00:00

We’re blessed by the privilege of being missionaries in a country where Christ’s Church is being built.  At times it is slow going but we remain steadfast, knowing that God is doing His perfect work among the Khmer and Christ’s Church (1 Peter 2:5).   Recently a country wide survey was completed of the Church here in Cambodia.  The report focused on both trends in the Church and of pastors/leaders in the Church.  Perhaps you’ll be prompted to pray as you read some of the following stats:

• 62% of people who attend church (nationwide) do not have a Bible of their own
• Average church size is 19 attendees
• Actual percent of the population that are active Christians is  .5% (half of one percent)
• Average church receives $8 per month in tithing
• Average pastor makes about $27 per month
• Average education level of a pastor is Grade 6
• Only 12% of church leaders have read the entire Bible
• 5% of pastors are full time (vocational) while 95% support themselves
• 75% of pastors indicate they need more training
• 75% of all church leaders have planted a new church themselves

 

Much of what we do here as a team already addresses the needs that have been identified by this survey.  As I’ve often said, ‘many times it is not brain surgery!’.  It is a needful thing for us to help provide the Word of God (see the very first statistic above) for people.  It is critical that we help provide equipping opportunities, practical assistance and encouragement for the pastors and leaders of the young Cambodian Church.  There are innumerable areas to demonstrate Christ honoring compassionate care among a population with so many physical needs.  Keep praying with us!  If you’d like to put a Bible in the hands of Cambodian Christian, help train a pastor, care for an orphan or feed a poor child please feel free to visit our web site to find out how you can participate financially at http://www.actioncambodia.org/get-involved/give.html


Thank you for standing with us these past seven years as we serve as Christ’s ambassadors (2 Corinthians 5:20-21) here in Cambodia.  
 

In His Bonds,
Daren
I Cor 2:5
 

“Grace withers without adversity. The devil is but God's master fencer, to teach us how to handle our weapons.”      Samuel Rutherford

Action Cambodia
PO Box 1178
Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Cell:     855-12-560-982
Skype:  darenbeck

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