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The past few days have been a reminder of the light and darkness in our world. Joy and brokenness can often be found in the same moments here. We experienced joy as we attended New Life Fellowship Church on Sunday. This lively, young church had a heart for missions and worship. It was exciting to see the next generation of believers in Cambodia so passionate about the gospel.

After church we visited university students from Place of Rescue's dorms House of New Dreams. We went with the students on a river boat ride along the Mekong and then went to their dorms for pizza. The students were so much fun to be with, it was easy to forget that difficult circumstances had led them to Rescue. One student mentioned "I lost both my parents, which was really hard, but because of that I came to rescue and met Jesus which makes me so happy." This reminded me of the importance of the work that Place of Rescue is doing. Not only does Rescue provide important physical needs for orphans, but they teach them about the love and hope they have in Jesus. The next day we went on to visit Place of Rescue 2 in Monkol Borey. The children there were so warm and receptive, it was hard to leave at the end of the day. All of these students have been through dark times of suffering, yet they have such joy because of Christ.

Between the brokenness and joy we have seen here in Cambodia, we are learning to cling to the hope we have in Christ. The darkness can be overwhelming, but the light has already won and God is working all things for good.

Please pray for our team as we are heading into English camp! We are excited to be working with the students, but the days are long and tiring. Please pray for our health. A few of us have been unwell. Please pray for us emotionally and spiritually as we deal with our experiences here.

Thank you!
Alyssa Papworth