Cambodia is slowly recovering from the terrible genocide perpetrated by the Khmer Rouge and subsequent civil wars that devastated this beautiful country. Many people struggle with the emotional and physical scars. There has been rapid development in the capital Phnom Penh, but the economic benefits have been slow to reach rural areas where land grabbing is an increasing problem.

The last election past relatively peacefully, but continue to pray for full political and religious freedom. Pray that God may raise up honourable leaders for the nation, who will alleviate the sufferings of the people.

For centuries Cambodia has been in spiritual darkness. There is strong opposition towards any ideological rival to Buddhism, many spirit shrines and hatred generated by 20 years of war.

The Church needs prayer:

· For freedom from government manipulation and interference, and wisdom in knowing how to relate to the authorities.

· For effective discipleship, leadership and Bible training programs at the local church level and through TEE (Theological Education by Extension; distance learning) and residential training at Phnom Penh Bible College and other schools; that the church may be led by mature, discerning and faithful men and women of God.

· For effective Christian families in a nation where family cohesion, trust and love have been severely impaired.

· For ministry to emotional and spiritual needs of both believers and non-Christians, and vision for evangelism.

Christian ministry to physical needs:

· Cambodia has many educational, medical and social problems.

· Most Cambodians with skills or an education were killed during the war, so expatriate input has been essential.

The less reached:

· The Buddhist majority.

· The Vietnamese: some are coming to Christ in Cambodia.

· The Cham Muslims: several believers but no known churches.

· Tribal peoples: pray for church-planting work to begin.

Written teaching materials are desperately needed. False teachings and cults spread as the doors open wider; few of the believers have the background knowledge of Scripture to combat such error. Radio ministries are important.