October 6, 2003
Less than three decades ago, Pol Pot and his communist henchmen slaughtered millions of Cambodians in the most horrible case of genocide in modern history. Piles of skulls lined the streets, and Cambodia became notorious as “The Killing Fields.”
Now, in 2003, God is breathing new life into that ancient land of tigers and Buddhist temples.
Bill and Marie-Claire McDonough have rented a house in Phnom Penh, the capital city, and have launched a tremendous ministry. Bill says, “Our house is big and nice — seven bedrooms, each with a bath, large kitchen, dining and living areas and a meeting room that seats 35. It’s ideal for our project.”
“English Bible classes are being offered six hours per day. All of the young people in the country are trying to learn English because it is required for almost any good job.”
In a recent letter, Bill says, “I want to express my gratitude to you and all who have worked with you in developing WEI materials. They worked well in Eastern Europe, but here in Asia, they are even more effective. With no Biblical background, most Cambodians have never heard of Jesus. The Old Testament materials are especially effective to bring them to faith, and WEI does this in a masterful way.
“There have been seven new congregations established here since March — with just two evangelists. We could start another congregation every day if we had workers. We are using WEI materials in the city to reach out to University students.
“Bob Towell gave us the new [audible] version [of the WEI course] on disk, and we hope to have people taking the course on our seven computers at the Partners In Progress Center. This will allow us to teach seven more students per hour, and we can personally follow up with them.
In an Email letter, Bill reported, “Medical Mission Teams are being organized to come and conduct short-term clinics. Well drilling efforts, drip irrigation, solar cookers, and other projects will be developed to provide food for those among the 45% of the population (according to the Health Department) who suffer from malnutrition.
“Come over and help us. Find some workers for us. We can keep up to eighteen people at the PIP Center where we live, eat, and teach. The cost is only $200 per month per person for food and utilities.”
I think we have just heard an Asian version of the Macedonian Call. If you would like to join Bill and Marie-Claire in Phnom Penh and teach WEI students for a few weeks or months, please let us hear from you. We will put you in touch with Bill.
