Niya’s Church Easter Celebration in Pailin

Pastor Niya’s church marked Easter with a vibrant display of new life. They gathered fruits—watermelon, coconut, durian, rambutan, pineapples, pumpkins, eggplants, mangos—along with rice, duck eggs, and vegetables, symbolizing rebirth and abundance. As Niya shared, “On Easter Sunday, the fruits and eggs mirror Jesus’ resurrection—eggs represent His emergence from the tomb, and spring fruits show life after winter.” His sermon, “Christ is Raised from Among the Dead, First-Fruits of Those Fallen Asleep” (Exodus 34:22,26; 1 Corinthians 15:20), tied these symbols to Christ’s victory. After the service, they shared the feast and gave second-hand clothes to poor children and adults.

Phearum’s Church Joyful Gathering

Pastor Phearum’s congregation, despite the tin shack’s challenges, celebrated with gratitude. Each Sunday, they read a Bible chapter together—this Easter, Phearum asked them to read Matthew 28. He preached on Christ’s resurrection, weaving in Jesus’ predictions of His suffering and death (Mark 8:31-32, 9:30-31, 10:32-33) and 1 Corinthians 15, highlighting the eyewitnesses, the first fruits, and the living hope we have in Him. After the service, they shared a rare lunch, a special treat for occasions like Easter. “The fruits mean nothing but gratitude and happiness on Easter day,” Phearum shared. Villagers brought fruit for dessert, reflecting the joy of Christ’s resurrection and community unity. Exciting news: Phearum raised another $5,000 toward the $25,000 needed for a new church building, leaving $20,000 to go! A gift of $100 helps build this sanctuary for his seven gathering places.