Richie's letters
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The Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang was founded in 1968, but all of its pastoral activities were halted during the Khmer Rouge uprising and the subsequent war. However, in July 2000, with the appointment of Msgr. Enrique Figaredo SJ (Msgr. Kike) as the Apostolic Prefect, these pastoral activities were resumed, significantly expanding the scope and responsibilities of the Jesuit Mission in Cambodia. Since then, there has been a concerted effort to rebuild the social, cultural, and religious foundations in the region.
Today, the Prefecture encompasses 28 parishes and manages various social projects that address needs such as education, support for people with disabilities, agriculture, and socio-economic development, directly benefiting over 50,000 people in the region. More than one-third of Jesuits in Cambodia are now dedicated solely to the ministry within the Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang.
Like in a ‘kroma’, a typical handmade Cambodian cloth present all over the country, the colors of hope, persistence, and commitment has enriched the life of the Cambodian people. We can see a story of love between God and His people intricately woven in their history and daily lives.
The primary focus of the Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang is to restore life in Cambodia after the devastation of war, becoming witnesses to the power of love, mercy, and compassion from God—forces stronger than any hatred or death. Our projects are centered around several key areas:
Supporting Social Integration for People with Disabilities
The Arrupe Welcome Centre serves as a base for the diocese’s outreach and rehabilitation projects for individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities in northwest Cambodia. It provides comprehensive support, including wheelchair provision and repair, skills training and scholarships, food and medical assistance, and advocacy through landmine and cluster bomb campaigns.
Expanding Access to Education and Healthcare
We offer center-based rehabilitation for students with disabilities, welcome centers for vulnerable children, kindergartens, scholarship programs, and free medical services for patients who cannot access or afford healthcare.
Promoting Art and Culture
Through traditional dance, we help youth reconnect with their cultural heritage, fostering mutual trust and communication between traditional communities and the new generation. Ta Hen’s dance group has performed at numerous venues across Cambodia and internationally, with tours in Singapore, Australia, Korea, and Spain. Additionally, we have established weaving and handicraft workshops for the local community, where people with disabilities receive training and employment.
Developing Social Enterprises
Our social enterprise projects provide individuals affected by disabilities or in vulnerable circumstances with opportunities to earn income and achieve financial sustainability. We employ around 140 people, 50 of whom have physical or intellectual disabilities. Our enterprises include the Lonely Tree Café, Toul Tnaoth Textile Production Centre, Yiey Ath Coffee Shop, and Oh Battambang Boutique Hotel.
Focusing on Agriculture and Environment
Our agriculture program emphasizes the development of sustainable farming techniques to promote agricultural activity and environmental preservation.
For more information, you can visit the Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang website or Facebook.