An incredible Trip!
Before diving into the incredible experiences of this mission trip, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our supporters and donors. Your generosity made every moment of this journey possible. From remote villages in Cambodia to classrooms in Thailand, the love of Christ was shared, lives were transformed, and seeds of hope were planted—all thanks to your prayers and contributions.
Arrival in Cambodia: A Warm Welcome and a Missional Start
After a grueling journey spanning Tulsa to Phnom Penh, our team of missionaries arrived in Cambodia, eager but exhausted. Six of our bags didn’t make it initially, but that didn’t dampen our spirits. We were thrilled to connect with Ale and Emily Camacho, local missionaries and dear members of the OTTOM family, who welcomed us with open arms. Their devotion to God and heart for the people of Cambodia were an inspiration to us all as they led our team in our first morning devotionals.
Our time in Phnom Penh began with rehearsals for SPELLBOUND, the drama we would use to share the Gospel. The team’s dedication was evident, as they worked tirelessly to perfect every detail.
Ministry in Cambodia: Faces of Gratitude and Lives Changed
In the days that followed, we traveled from the bustling streets of Phnom Penh to rural villages, orphanages, and schools. One of the most moving moments came when we provided shampoo treatments for nearly 80 children. The smiles of gratitude on their faces were priceless and a testament to the simple yet profound ways God allows us to share His love. While this was happening a few team members went door to door in the village. They ended up in the home of the village chief, a man who had obviously heard the gospel and had been wrestling with many questions. He asked them how one man’s sacrifice could possibly be enough for all the sin in the world and several other thoughtful questions. At the end of the conversation our team asked him if he would like to accept Jesus. This was translated, “would you like to try Jesus?”. He replied, “I don’t want to just try Jesus, I want to give him my entire life!”. Praise God! We know missions is all about preparing the ground, planting the seeds, watering the garden, and sometimes harvesting the fruit. What a joy to be part of this harvest!
In a remote village, our first performance was met with unique challenges. Three team members fell ill, and a sudden downpour interrupted the presentation. But through the power of prayer and teamwork, the show went on. The result? Dozens of children raised their hands to accept Jesus, and one couple, former Buddhists, gave their lives to Christ.
Another highlight was the Youth Conference in Kampong Chhnang. Over 180 young people from seven regions gathered to worship and hear the Gospel. CBN Cambodia shared that this event was the answer to a 12-year prayer. We witnessed young hearts on fire for God and rejoiced in the fruit of His work.
A Moment to Reflect: The Killing Fields and a City Transformed
A visit to The Killing Fields reminded us of the brokenness in this world and the desperate need for the hope that only Jesus can bring. We were able to spend several hours cruising the the bay and we took the opportunity to pray over the city and worship from the point of view of the river. Later, we shared that hope in an unforgettable performance near Phnom Penh’s King’s Palace. To our astonishment, military police granted us permission to perform in a public park. One life came to Christ that evening, and our hosts at CBN Cambodia called it a spiritual breakthrough for the nation.
Thailand: Bold Ministry in Unexpected Places
From Cambodia, the team transitioned to Thailand, ministering in government-run Buddhist schools where we were the first Christian group allowed to share the Gospel. Through SPELLBOUND and heartfelt conversations, hundreds of students heard the message of Jesus.
One memorable day included performances at two schools, one of which had three Buddha statues towering over the stage. Undeterred, our team prayed over the space and boldly proclaimed the Gospel. Many students responded, and we are confident that God will continue the work begun there.
A Farewell to Remember
As our time in Thailand drew to a close, we celebrated with a visit to “Sticky Falls” in a stunning natural park and a farewell dinner. The team reflected on God’s faithfulness throughout the trip—from seeing students come to Christ in Buddhist schools to witnessing communities embrace the message of hope.
Thank You for Being Part of the Mission
From the villages of Cambodia to the schools of Thailand, this mission was a powerful reminder of the Great Commission in action. We were privileged present the gospel in seven different Buddhist schools to a total of over 1,800 student. These schools were all opened up to us because of the network of CBN Pastors that will follow-up with all the students going forward. None of it would have been possible without your support. Thank you for partnering with us to make an eternal impact.
Please continue to pray for the seeds planted during this trip—that they would bear much fruit and that entire generations would come to know the hope and love found in Jesus Christ. To Him be all the glory!