Contemplating a brighter future for Phnom Penh’s children? That’s precisely what Pastor Meng Aun Hour envisioned when he founded the Jesus School in 2002.
Let’s talk about the Jesus School. It stands as a beacon of hope. It all began with a visit to the Thnot Chrum rubbish dump. The pastor was moved. He saw children there and wanted to help.
Pastor Meng Aun Hour had a vision. He wanted to create a school. It would be near the dump. The aim was to educate the children of the dump workers. He wanted to give them better opportunities.
The Thnot Chrum rubbish dump is now closed. But the Jesus School continues. It grows stronger every year. Today, over 200 students are enrolled. They range from kindergarten to grade 6.
The Jesus School provides free education. This includes uniforms and textbooks. School supplies are also free. After grade 6, the school assists children. It helps them enroll in a government high school.
Initially, a few generous donors funded the Jesus School. A local church also provided some support. However, funding is always a challenge. Circumstances change and donors can’t always help. The Jesus School constantly strives to secure funding.
Garuna Christian School #7 is another Christian School in Phnom Penh. It is the first 2-story school building. It’s on a larger plot of land. There is room for expansion there. There is space for additional outreach. There is space for educational opportunities. Worship and Sunday School can take place here. They offer English classes. They address other needs, identifying future ministry opportunities. Currently, the school has over 150 students. Staff began afternoon English and music classes for youth. They also opened a Sunday School. Almost 100 children come.
Garuna Foundation established a system of Christian tutoring schools. These schools are in communities. Only a small percentage of the population are Christians. Most people have little or no knowledge of Jesus.
Garuna helps support the Cambodia Lutheran Church. They encourage church plants and Bible studies at the school sites. The Garuna Christian Schools are built next to Lutheran congregations. They are designed to be new church planting sites. The schools have movable walls. This allows for outreach activities. They can host worship services. They can run Sunday Schools. They can organize youth soccer teams. Holiday events and English classes can take place here. The entire community can enjoy an excellent education. They learn about the love of Christ at the same time.
These schools operate for half-day sessions. This complements the Cambodian government schools. This arrangement allows for mutual respect. The schools serve as a safety net. Young children are safe while their parents work.
The Jesus School and other Garuna Christian Schools exemplify dedication. They provide education and Christian values. They shape a brighter future for Cambodian children. They give hope where it is needed most.