Botta & Kirsten
Serving in Cambodia
Botta (Cambodian) and Kirsten (Australian) live in a small rural village with their three children - Oliveya, Amelia and Isaiah.
Botta comes from a Christian family who were miraculously saved by God as they lived through the horrors of the Khmer Rouge genocide in the 1970s.
Kirsten travelled to Cambodia in 2004 for a short-term mission trip, and has had a heart for the people of Cambodia ever since. She later returned to work as a social worker, which is how she met Botta.
Life in Cambodia
Population: 17.5 million
Official Language: Khmer
Official religion: Buddhism
Cambodia is one of the world’s poorest countries, with agriculture employing about three-quarters of the workforce.
As in many developing countries, children under the age of 15 constitute the largest group, (under 15s make up nearly one-third of the population).
As a result of the genocide, more than half of all Cambodians are under the age of 30.
Sharing the Good News
Botta’s heart is to see his people reached with the Gospel. For those who are already know Jesus, Botta seeks to see them strengthened and empowered in their knowledge and understanding of their faith.
He is currently serving as the Pastor of a small Cambodian congregation in a village along the Mekong River.
Kirsten supports Botta in his pastoral work, while also homeschooling their children, along with providing English lessons to local, young Cambodians.
As a family, they seek to live as a witness for Jesus in their community.
Can you help?
The village’s community centre has been permanently closed due to safety / termite issues. This means no more visits from medical specialists, teachers and other community services.
Botta and Kirsten have an exciting vision… to see the old, condemned building torn down and replaced with a brand new, multi-purpose space.
A space for ministry, education and health, community events; as well as offering a protected playground where children can play in safety while parents and grandparents work.
Pray with Botta & Kirsten
Pray for our children - their education, friendships, and to develop a sense of belonging in our village.
Pray for our congregation - that they grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.
Pray for good relationships with community members and a willingness to hear and respond to the Gospel.
Pray for protection over our marriage, children, and our journey of faith.
