Awakening Cambodia

This Christian-faith production shows how churches can fill a void and provide avenues for healing in a country still torn apart by war. Missionaries Ted and Sou Olbrich came to Cambodia in 1998 just as it was emerging from brutal conflict. As related in their account here—backed by archival and contemporary footage—the couple found a nation ravaged by the Khmer Rouge genocide (which resulted in three million deaths), with no stable infrastructure (including roads and bridges), and a dysfunctional school system. Preaching in the midst of a predominately Buddhist culture, the Olbrichs focused on compassion, talking about a God who loves and forgives. Many of the Cambodians they met with were initially so full of bitterness they couldn't embrace the concept of forgiveness, while others were so guilt-ridden they couldn't forgive themselves. But the Olbrichs' message took root over time, and Cambodia now has more than 300 churches (with a total of 400,000 believers) that also serve as conduits for social reform—sponsoring orphanages as well as classes in English language, computers, music and art, traditional handicrafts (like spinning and weaving), auto mechanics, and more. An inspiring story of transformation and hope, this is recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)