Poverty is widespread in rural Cambodia, with many people existing on very little. This can lead to limited access to necessities like food, clean water and healthcare. Tearfund is supporting local churches in remote communities through savings and loans groups, as part of our Transforming Communities work. This week, pray for the success and continued spread of these life-changing initiatives.
Sunday 31 August
Savings and loans groups empower people with the lowest income in communities. Members can access low-interest loans to start or grow businesses, cover medical expenses and fund education by pooling small, regular savings. This significantly improves their economic wellbeing. Pray that more communities across Cambodia will be inspired to start savings groups.
Monday 1 September
Before taking part in Transforming Communities training, Pastor Puth Norn didn’t understand the church’s role in supporting the community. Since the training, he has helped set up a savings and loans group so community members could better manage their money. ‘I believe that the Lord is behind our vision to persuade teenagers and children to join the group-saving,’ he says. Pray that this vision will come to fruition.
Tuesday 2 September
‘I use my savings for basic needs such as paying for my children’s school fees, buying books and transport,’ says Samnang, a Transforming Communities facilitator at Pastor Puth Norn’s church. Pray that success stories like these will spread to neighbouring communities, encouraging them to learn more and get involved.
Wednesday 3 September
To pay for essentials, many Cambodians with low incomes take out loans with high interest rates. Local savings groups help communities borrow from each other. Pastor Yee SokEng has seen the benefit for his community: ‘The savings group has progressed because the interest rate is low.’ Give thanks for the financial freedom this offers.
Thursday 4 September
Belonging to a savings group helps members realise they have the ability and resources to improve their situation. They gain new confidence and a voice. Many women report improved relations with the men in their homes and communities. Pray that more Cambodian women will join savings initiatives.
Friday 5 September
Join in prayer today with Ponloeu Ea from Tearfund’s team in Cambodia: ‘My prayer is for believers to be empowered to address poverty, bring hope and demonstrate God’s love in their communities. I pray for young people and families as they navigate challenges related to education and for the development of healthy families rooted in biblical values. Amen.’
Saturday 6 September
‘Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.’ (Proverbs 13:11)
Lord, we thank you for blessing communities in Cambodia through savings and loans groups. We pray that whole communities will be transformed as a result, and more and more churches will get involved. Amen.
