Chaktomuk Sisters

Over the last nine months of attending the Chaktomuk Ward we have seen about nine baptisms.  There was a mother and her teenage daughter, three single YSA men and four older women.  In Cambodia, as in other areas of the world, retention is one of the biggest concerns, only about 35% of the converts are still active after a year and the majority fall out in the first two months.  So far Chaktomuk as done fairly well in keeping the recent converts coming, primarily because of the wonderful sisters in their ward.

In a typical Sacrament Meeting in the Chaktomuk Ward 80% of the members present are sisters.  There are not many children, or Young Men or Young Women.  The majority of the brethren are young single adults, and most of the sisters are way older.  We have learned to truly love this ward that struggles, but is so loving in many ways.  Our picture for the day shows some of these wonderful sisters.

The other Ward that we have been assigned to attend is the Stueng Mean Chey 3rd Ward.  This is part of the poorest area in Phnom Penh.  They have not had has many baptisms as Chaktomuk, and unfortunately most have fallen away.  There is a significant alcohol problem here in Cambodia, especially among the poorer population.  We are advised to be off of the roads before 8:00 p.m. whenever possible.  That is one of the problems that they face.  There are also
a lot more who ride bicycles to church or walk, so this discourages some from coming also.  It just means that we have to fight harder to keep them coming.  Again we have a great love and appreciation for the members in this Ward also.