Cambodian or
Khmer Christians are existed in many parts of the world. They
could be categorized into two groups, the "national
Cambodian Christian" and the "expatriate Cambodian
Christian" (Diaspora).
The historical roots of the present situation
can be traced back to the period right after the reign of
the Khmer Rouge Regime (1975-1979). In 1979 many Cambodians
fled the country for their lives, seeking stability and peace.
The refugee camps in Thailand became their home for many
years. Along with the UNHCR,
some Christian NGOs and missionaries were servicing refugee of
many various needs. Many Cambodians became Christians at that
time (Learn
more about the border camps).
Some Cambodian Christians were repatriated to
a third country, where they could form their churches or joint
existed denominations. Those who stay, have returned to
Cambodia during the peace plan of the United Nations Transitional
Authority In Cambodia( UNTAC,
1992-93).
During that peace settlement
the Cambodian government guarantees religious freedom in the
Cambodian Constitution. Cambodian Christians have the right to
exercise their faith as other religious groups do in the country.
United Sates, Canada, Australia, France, and New Zealand, are
the countries that have the most Cambodian Christians.
There are an estimated 100
Christian organizations or denominations that operate freely
throughout the country and include approximately 2,400 churches
(US
Department of State, report 2005).
Due to emphasis on leadership, education in international
standard, and the provisions through various denominations, many
young leaders are now being educated outside Cambodia. An
English speaking university in Thailand admitting about 80
Cambodian Christian students annually (Picture
of the 80 Khmer students) . Universities in Korea and the
Philippines are also known for accepting Cambodian Christian
students direct from Cambodia (photos).
The FEBC
and EFC reported that there
approximately 700,000 Christians in the country. This told is not
counting children. Some would estimated as high as one million
Christians.
By: Amra Phou (visit regularly
for update)
