July 2025 Ministry Recap

The month of July has been both eventful and challenging for our family, our ministry, and Cambodia as a whole. Yet through it all, we stand in awe of God’s unwavering presence. 

He never fails to fight for us, and never once has He left our side.

Responding with Faith and Compassion

Have you ever felt caught in the middle of conflict? These past weeks, tensions along the Cambodia–Thailand border escalated into something that felt almost unreal. Though we live far from the direct danger in Phnom Penh, the fear, confusion, and heartbreak were impossible to ignore. Stories of families being displaced and soldiers being deployed spread rapidly. The atmosphere was heavy. You could see it on people’s faces: uncertainty, worry, and a deep concern for what lay ahead.

Main Prayer Focus for the Week@PPC

But in the middle of this national anxiety, something beautiful began to rise: compassion. Khmers rallied to support one another. Food, supplies, and encouragement were shared. Volunteers mobilized quickly. Soldiers weren’t just being protected; they were being prayed over. In both rural villages and city churches, the Body of Christ moved into action, responding not with fear, but with prayer, with giving, and with gospel hope.

Khmer Children sleeping under the cart

We thank God for the ceasefire initiative by President Trump and ASEAN leaders. It is our fervent hope that this marks the beginning of a lasting peace, a rebuilding, and a renewed season of unity for the region. You can read more about our reflections on the crisis here: Cambodia and Thailand Border Dispute. 👈

Pastor Vandy gave an update: President Trump convinced a CEASEFIRE between Cambodia & Thailand

In the face of political tension, Scripture reminded us how vital our response is. James 1:19–20 has echoed in our hearts this month: “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry.” We saw the importance of this; how Christlike listening and compassion can soften anger and pave the way for peace. Read more in our post 👉 Why Our Response Matters.

July Ministry Highlights: Stories of Grace and Growth

Stories of Grace: From Kratie to Today

Two of our former students from Kratie reconnected with us and visited our home. We were reminded again that God's grace isn’t limited to big platforms or public stages. It’s found in conversations over rice, in student dorms, and in humble gatherings. In Kratie, we witnessed young believers stepping forward in faith, despite limited resources or uncertain futures. Their courage and passion reignited our hearts for rural youth ministry. These stories continue to shape us and inspire others to press on with hope. Read more here 👉 Stories of Grace from Kratie to Today.

Living Out Faith in the Marketplace and Practicing Humility

Many of our university students and young professionals are now stepping into the workforce. Their questions often revolve around how to live out their faith in secular settings. This month, we had deep conversations about what it looks like to serve God in their places of influence, whether in banks, offices, schools, or government departments. The reminder was simple yet powerful: the workplace is a mission field. Christ is glorified not just through words but through humility, excellence, and love. Whether they’re serving clients, managing teams, or making difficult ethical decisions, their lives become testimonies of Christ’s character. Dive deeper into these reflections here 👉 Living Out His Love in the Marketplace and How to Practice Humility in Everyday Life. 👈

The Heart of Worship Leading

Worship, especially in a time of national crisis, carries a different weight. This month, Tess had the opportunity to serve the body of Christ in an international congregation as a worship leader. We were reminded again that worship isn’t about performance. It’s about presence, God’s presence. Worship is surrender. It’s a way to bring our fears, our exhaustion, and our questions before the Lord. We encouraged our team to lead not with perfect voices but with honest hearts. There were Sundays when our worship was mixed with tears. And yet, those moments were the most powerful. Read more about our journey in worship ministry here: Worship Leading. 👍

Teaching Our Children to Trust and Give

Parenting in ministry is a sacred, sometimes stretching, calling. This month we focused more intentionally on how we disciple our son David. As he grows older, the lessons of trust and generosity become even more important. How do we raise children who know that God is trustworthy even in chaos? Who learn that giving, not hoarding, brings joy? We’ve learned that it begins with what they see in us. When David sees us praying for peace, sharing what little we have, and clinging to God’s Word, he learns what faith looks like in real life. Read our parenting reflections here: How to Teach Our Children to Trust and to Give. 👈👪👦👌

August Prayer Requests: Standing Together in Faith

1. Physical and Spiritual Stamina – We’ll be celebrating Vandy’s birthday on August 6 and Tess’s on August 9. Please pray that this new year brings strength, clarity, and renewed joy in serving together. 👫💕😅🙏

2. David’s School Transition & Provision – David begins seventh grade on August 4. Pray for smooth transitions, new friendships, tuition fee provision, and growth in confidence and character as he takes on new responsibilities. 👦👍

3. Spiritual Breakthrough in Phnom Penh Church and Dorm Ministries – Please pray that the seeds planted in young hearts would grow deeply. We long to see a transformation that goes beyond attendance, hearts set on fire for God.

4. Peace and Reconciliation at the Cambodia-Thailand Border – Pray for lasting resolution, wisdom for leaders, healing for displaced families, and opportunities for the Church to be a bridge of peace and hope. 

   
   
   

God is Still Writing This Story

July has stretched our faith, refined our hearts, and deepened our dependence on the Lord. And even in turmoil, we see it, God is still moving. He is writing stories of grace in dorm rooms, behind market stalls, along dusty village roads, and even along tense national borders.

Thank you for standing with us. Your prayers, your messages, and your love fuel our journey.

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” — Exodus 14:14

With all our hearts,

Vandy, Tess, and David

For more updates and reflections, visit www.apastorswifeincambodia.com
Want to support the ministry? Reach out to us directly through the blog. Let’s keep pressing forward in faith, together.