2015 Cambodia Cabinet Mission: Temple Ruins, Living Churches

November 19, by Matt Curry

Our last day in Cambodia was marked by visits to three remarkable temples --- culminating at Angkor Wat. These heritage sites are notable for many reasons: religious significance, artisanship, architectural achievement, popularity, historical importance, and more. I’ve been told that Angkor Wat is both the largest religious site in the world and the second most visited tourist site in the world. 

As this was our last day in Cambodia, I can’t help but look back at the entire week and draw some comparisons. We began our Cambodia Mission journey with the privilege of opportunity of dedicating the parsonage and chapel in Okroch. What Angkor Wat represents in magnificent scale and artisanal details, the Nugent Chapel more than makes up for in the intentions of the faith community; both the simple chapel and the ancient temple are monuments to faith … shared places steeped in prayer. While Okroch Methodist Church will never draw crowds by the millions, it will form the lives of the children who play in its yard and the families and individuals who pray and worship there.

I meditate on my experience in these sacred places, I can’t help but hum the song we offered in worship this past Sunday in Okroch: 

“Lord, prepare me to be a Sanctuary; 

Pure and holy; tried and true.

With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living; Sanctuary for you.”