How Dormitory Ministries Are Changing Lives in Cambodia?
The BAC II Khmer National Exam is a significant milestone for every 12th grader in Cambodia. It is the gateway to higher education, determining whether a student can pursue a university degree. For many, passing this exam is just the beginning of an even greater challenge—finding the means to study in the city.
The Challenges of Higher Education in Cambodia
Higher education opportunities in Cambodia’s provinces are limited, pushing many students to migrate to Phnom Penh, the capital, where better universities and job prospects await. However, life in the city is tough, especially for students from rural areas. The cost of tuition, housing, food, and transportation can be overwhelming, even with scholarships.
More than financial struggles, there are dangers as well. Many young students, especially girls, are vulnerable to human trafficking, prostitution, and other crimes. Because of these risks, many parents are hesitant to send their children to Phnom Penh. However, Christian dormitories have become a trusted option, providing a safe environment where students can focus on their studies while also being nurtured in faith.
The Growth of Dormitory Ministries
Christian dormitory ministries have been a growing movement in Cambodia, offering not only shelter but also discipleship. These dorms provide young students with a secure place to live while attending university, allowing them to grow academically and spiritually. Churches in Cambodia started this initiative decades ago, and it has had a lasting impact on many lives.
Since last year, we welcomed five new students into our dormitories—three young women and two young men. Two of them arrived a few months ago, excited and hopeful for their future. Today, I would love to introduce the three ladies who have joined our dorm and invite you to pray for them:
- Chan Sonita (18 years old) – From Kampong Cham, studying Bachelor of Science in Mathematics at RUPP (Royal University of Phnom Penh). She was referred to us by my mother-in-law.
- Rachana (19 years old) – Also from Kampong Cham, studying Accounting at Vanda University. She enjoys dancing and is a big fan of K-pop.
- Sreyleak (21 years old) – She is also studying Accounting at Vanda University.
These young women are still in the early stages of their faith journey. Some of them are hesitant due to family pressures and cultural expectations tied to Buddhism. However, we trust that God is at work in their hearts.
A Gateway for the Gospel
Dormitory ministries have been an incredible way to share the gospel in Cambodia. For at least four years, these students will participate in corporate worship, attend Bible studies, and receive discipleship. Even after graduation, many of them will carry their faith into their workplaces—whether in NGOs, banks, or schools. Some will return to their home provinces after marriage, bringing the gospel to their families and communities.
God is placing these students in strategic positions to be His witnesses. We may not see the full impact now, but we trust that seeds are being planted in their hearts.
Matthew 5:14-16 – “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Leadership and Discipleship
Each dorm has a bong srey (big sister) and bong pro (big brother)—young leaders who help maintain order and provide guidance. These leaders were once students themselves and have grown in faith through the dorm ministry. Now, they take on the responsibility of leading Bible studies, enforcing rules like curfews and cleaning schedules, and ensuring unity among the students. They serve voluntarily, sacrificing their time and comfort for the sake of the gospel.
Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
A Vision Rooted in Mission
Before launching the dorm ministry, my husband Vandy and I served in a Bible school. Vandy was a Bible teacher at Wesleyan Bible College, and we spent two years teaching and discipling students. However, our hearts longed for church planting, and we felt God leading us to a new mission.
The vision for dormitory ministry was inspired by conversations with our dear sisters Srey Roath and Chearta in 2011. Both of them were Bible School graduates and were working for different Christian NGOs at that time. So, they captured the need and soon shared their vision to start a dormitory here in the city. It was also affirmed by some families in rural areas like Kratie province where we previously served. Parents valued education but were deeply concerned about their children's safety in Phnom Penh. We saw the need for a safe, Christ-centered community where students could grow in faith while pursuing their studies.
Proverbs 16:9 – “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
Trusting in God’s Provision
We have always been cautious about sharing too much about our dorm ministry. We never actively fundraise, choosing instead to trust in God’s provision. When friends visit and learn about our work, they often feel led to partner with us in prayer and support.
We praise God for all blesings flow! For years, we relied solely on God's quiet provision mainly from our works - Tess as university lecturer & Vandy's passive income. When visitors saw the dorm, some felt led to give without us ever asking. This was always our heart—to depend fully on God's supply. But as our ministry grows, we are realizing that part of God’s provision is allowing others to be vessels of His blessings.
We still hold firm to our commitment to sustainability—we don’t want our students to depend on external aid but to trust in God's provision for their lives. However, we also recognize that God moves hearts to give, and this is one way He provides for His work.
2 Corinthians 9:8 – “And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
God’s ways are always higher than our ways. He surprises us with answered prayers beyond what we can imagine. Even in our silent pleas, He listens and responds in ways we never expect.
Isaiah 55:8-9 – “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.”
A Prayer for Our Students and Ministry
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the opportunity to serve these young students through dormitory ministry. We lift up Sonita, Rachana, Sreyleak, and all the students in our care. May You open their hearts to Your truth and lead them to a personal relationship with You. Protect them as they study and navigate life in the city. May they find strength, wisdom, and purpose in You.
We pray for the dorm leaders who serve selflessly—may You bless them with endurance and joy as they disciple and guide these students. Provide for all the needs of this ministry, and raise up more committed partners who share the vision of seeing Cambodia transformed by the gospel.
Above all, may Your name be glorified in the lives of these students. May they grow in faith and become lights in their workplaces, families, and communities. We trust in Your perfect plan and provision.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
The work is plenty, and the laborers are few, but we continue with faith, knowing that God is at work in Cambodia. Thank you for your prayers and support. If you feel led to partner with us in any way, may the Lord bless and guide you in His purpose.
Note:
If you would like to receive a monthly Newsletter of our ministry here in Cambodia, it would be greatly appreciated to write your email address in the comment section below or you may contact us directly at apastorswifeincambodia@gmail.com
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