Students Experience an Unforgettable Trip to Cambodia

By Claire Hyunseo Lee 

From March 22 to 27, the Cambodia GOES team spent an unforgettable spring break serving the children of Cambodia. The 19-member team included 15 high school students (Elaine A., Emily D., Keado F., Eva H., Chang-il I., Catherine K., Leon K., Aaron K., Lyloo L., Alice L., Claire L., Daniel L., Luna L., Gianna P., and Hannah S.) and four teachers (Mr. Davis, Mr. Martinez, Ms. Kuk, and Ms. Kang). 

To begin the trip, the group visited the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum and the Killing Fields. By learning about Cambodia’s solemn history, students were able to understand the reasons behind the circumstances of current Cambodian society. 

On the second and third day of the trip, the students volunteered at HIS Church and HIS International School in Ta Khmau. Activities included performing dances and skits for the children, preparing crafts, playing sports, and taking the children to a local water park. 

On the fourth day of the trip, the team traveled to Phnom Penh, to serve at safehouses founded by Global Renewal. These safehouses were created for children and teenagers who had been rescued from human trafficking. The team’s work with Global Renewal also included an outreach activity to serve the children who lived on the railroads of Phnom Penh. 

The students celebrated the end of a successful service trip with a fun final day visiting Cambodia’s traditional markets and spending the evening at the swimming pool. 

The ultimate purpose of this trip was to serve and share the Gospel message to the children of Cambodia. By preparing various activities and caring for the children, the students hoped to show God’s love to the people of Cambodia. The GOES trip to Cambodia also allowed students to grow in their personal relationship with God as they reflected on Christ’s characteristics of humility, servant-heartedness, and caring for those who are excluded by society.