There's nothing like watching two cultures work side by side on a joint project. The communication may not be top-notch, but the smiles sure are. Each North American team pairs up with a congregation in Cambodia build a church. The construction project includes tasks that anyone can help with-- from mixing cement by hand to simple carpentry items-- there is never a shortage of work to be done. Skilled contractors may be used in their area of expertise.
Who You Will be Working With:
Cambodia Ministries for Christ (CMC) was founded by Cambodian pastors and church leaders. Radha Manickam has served as director of the organization for over 20 years. Radha is a pastor with Mission to the Americas (Partnership's parent organization). Of the 1,000 churches with Cambodian Ministries for Christ, 700 are still without a church building. Still, people are coming to know Christ and CMC continually plants new churches. CMC offers Biblical training, pastoral education, and vocational training to Cambodian pastors. Many of these pastors go on to reach the poorest in the rural areas of Cambodia where 80% of the country's population lives.
Get a "Loose Grip": At Partnership, we believe that each building belongs to the nationals. Want to make a real impact on their culture? Ask them for help. Take direction from them. Sound difficult? It's not. When you go out of your way to treat them as equals, the dignity and respect you impart to them shows on their faces. That's what makes it easy. And frankly, they don't need your help nearly as much as your friendship. Each missionary team receives help from an experienced Partnership staff member throughout the process, so don't worry. All you really need is a big heart and a love for Christ.
Break out the Needles and Thread...
Ever made a puppet before? Well, you might get to (or find someone else who sews!) because puppet ministry is key in reaching the children in Southeast Asia. (Don't panic-- we'll send you the patterns...) Rather than taking the puppets home, though, you'll be leaving them behind. You'll do the same thing with crafts. In fact,anything you bring along to minister to the children, you'll leave behind. Teams have left everything from movie projectors to picture books. In preparation to come to Southeast Asia, try to bring materials that aren't highly technological. The more manual, the better. Fair enough? Your team will have an impact long after you leave just by donating your supplies.