Dear Praying Friend and Family
Some of you have been following and praying for the war situation between Thailand and Cambodia. For those who have not heard, we want to provide an update. Based on information we gathered from our Cambodian friends at the sites, the situation is worsening. More than half a million villagers along the Thailand-Cambodia border have been evacuated multiple times, finding shelters in various refugee camps set by the local Cambodian governments. Many of them left in a hurry and didn’t bring along their valuables or basic living items with them when they fled their homes as early as 1 am, 2 am, or 3 am because of the bombing. The most recent fight began on Dec 7 and continues to this day. Bridges, pagodas, homes, schools, and even a few ancient temples have been destroyed by bombs…
Soeuth was on the phone every day, receiving updates from church leaders along the border. Our hearts ached to see that many people we know and love are running for their lives. Here are some links about the situations.
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19M6qqs7U/
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1C2cw4EMZB/
This is the rice harvesting season. But with the war raging, farmers fled for their lives, abandoning unharvested fields of precious crops, unattended cattle, homes, and other belongings. Over 1,000 schools closed. The women, children, and the elderly have been evacuated; only a few men per village remain to guard homes and properties… Meanwhile, Christians from across the country, along with International Workers from many sending agencies, have been pouring in help to provide shelter, food, and other living necessities. At the same time, news has spread that the Khmer people, mostly the younger generation, are united in their efforts, willingly taking up arms and standing along the borders with their brave soldiers to defend their beloved homeland… And because of this war, there is no Christmas celebration for refugees who fled their homes… As you celebrate the birth of the Prince of Peace, please pray for peace in Southeast Asia…
Thanks in advance for your prayers,
Soeuth & Syna
