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Missionaries Marilyn and Joseph Chan embodied the United Methodist connection between Oklahoma and Cambodia when they spoke in the state in August. Imprisoned during the violent Khmer Rouge regime in his country, Joseph Chan escaped to Thailand. He described raising his hand in a refugee camp to receive his first-ever Bible as he sat among other prisoners. He treasures Matthew 6:33. The couple reported the first nationwide meeting of UM churches in Cambodia was held in 2009. In June 2010, a new church was dedicated. UM churches total 142 in Cambodia; in 1988, there were two. The Chans receive support through the UM Advance (#12903Z and #12904Z). Bartlesville’s East Cross and First UMC are among their Covenant Relationship partners. A VIM team from Altus-First served in Cambodia this year, and other VIM teams are being recruited. Shown at the United Methodist Ministry Center in Oklahoma City are the Chans, seated, with Nancy VanAntwerp of OKC-Chapel Hill, standing left, and Mary Kincaid of Bartlesville-First.
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