Being a more recent member of CUMC I’ve heard about the Chan’s ministry in Cambodia, but I must admit some ignorance about who these people really are, and what they’re doing over there.  So I googled the General Board of Global Ministries and read their biographies. 

Joseph and Marilyn Chan are two extraordinary people doing a remarkable work for the Lord.  They have been serving in Phnom Penh, Cambodia since 1998, being the first United Methodist missionaries appointed to that country.  Joseph has wide ranging duties focused on evangelizing and church growth, training and supporting new pastors, organizing, and facilitating the acquisition of property for new churches.  Marilyn is a Women’s and Music Ministry Coordinator involved in organizational development of Methodist women in Cambodia. She seeks opportunities for exposure and leadership development through networking with local and international women’s groups. Mrs. Chan coordinates and follows-up on ‘livelihood’ projects – pig farming, silk weaving, bamboo basket weaving, vegetable farming, sewing, fish farming and hammock making. Marilyn also advocates, encourages, counsels and networks with local and international churches and non-government organizations that promote

Katrina Alison Jaggears attended The Women’s Campaign School (WSC) at Yale University in mid-July. 

The WCS at Yale is an intensive, five-day, nonpartisan political training and leadership program for women.  Admission is competitive; 50 women worldwide are admitted to the program each summer.

empowerment and attempt to improve the health, physical, emotional and spiritual growth of Cambodian women.

In the mid seventies Marilyn and Joseph escaped from years of enslavement in Cambodia during the time of the “killing fields.”  They converted to Christianity while in a refugee camp, later moving to New York and Stockton.  Of her current ministry, Marilyn says:   “Daily I thank God for choosing me to serve. I believe this is a call from God to serve Christ by sharing the truth by building trust, hope, and love. I joyfully and faithfully accept it.”

Marilyn and Joseph have three children: a son, Nyda and two daughters, Sodani and Christina.

 We at Central are so proud of the Chan’s work and their connection to this church.  Please support them with a generous offering on Communion Sunday in August.