THE CATHOLIC CHURCH IN NORTHWEST CAMBODIA

PURSAT

The Catholic community of Pursat is focused mainly around the formation and education of young people. A church was built in 2002 and a nearby house serves as a learning centre and as a base for the parish priest. English lessons are given to some 100 students Monday to Friday, the majority of whom are non-Catholic. Traditional dance, classical and modern music programs are also provided. In 2009 a new program was established that teaches the youth to use computers.

A scholarship program for students wanting to study primary and secondary school goes on through a weekly allowance given to the students to cover their formal classes as well as private lessons. Through the scholarship program, bicycles and uniforms are provided to those students who cannot afford them.

Though an outreach team made up of older youth, services to the sick and basic aid to poor families are provided. A common activity undertaken by outreach is the construction of houses for the elderly and poor as well as offering “animal bank ” loan program.

In the church compound there is a hostel for students to live whilst attending government school. These students are chosen from the poorest areas of the city of Pursat. They are provided with a place to stay, food and school uniforms and a healthy environment to study in.

Pursat is also the location of the “Centre of Research on optimal Agricultural Practices” (CROAP www.croap.org) witch started in 2004 as part of the parish ministry. In Khmer, CROAP means seed and is a farm located a few kilometres away from Pursat city. The farm attracts many young people who want to learn agriculture. In 2005 a fishing program was developed, with training at the farm being provided by expert’s teachers. The farm is also used as a community and retreat base.

 

 

 

 

Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang; Phum Rumchek 1, Khum Rattanak; Box 330, Battambang, Cambodia Tel: +855 53 730219; Email: prefbatt@battambang.net