Adventists Support Displaced Families in Cambodia-Thailand Border Dispute

Regional church leaders step up to provide shelter and meet necessities.

August 6, 2025 | Cambodia | Edward Rodriguez, Southern Asia-Pacific Division, and Adventist Review

As tensions flared along the Cambodia-Thailand border, the recent conflict in July has displaced tens of thousands of civilians in both countries. In the face of devastation, the Seventh-day Adventist Church has stepped up to offer refuge, compassion, and hope across both territories. “On the fourth day of the cross-border skirmishes, tension had escalated in intensity, with heavier and longer-range weapons deployed by both sides,” regional church leaders reported. “Military operations and territorial gains have led to widespread fear and forced evacuations, especially in areas near Preah Vihear Temple and other contested regions.”

Displacement in Cambodia and Thailand

On the Thai side, authorities have evacuated more than 140,000 people from Sisaket, Ubon Ratchathani, Surin, and Buriram provinces, where communities near the front lines were most vulnerable. Several Adventist churches in these provinces were forced to close temporarily, regional church leaders reported.

Meanwhile, in Cambodia villagers in Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey provinces were also displaced by artillery fire and ground operations. “Several Adventist members from these provinces, particularly from border communities where small house churches and worship groups meet, have fled to safer areas or crossed into Thailand seeking refuge,” church leaders reported.

Adventist Church in Cambodia Responds to Displaced Families

Following the border clash between Cambodia and Thailand on July 24, the Cambodia Mission (CAM) mobilized emergency relief efforts to support church members and families affected by the conflict. On July 27-28, CAM teams traveled to Preah Vihear and Oddar Meanchey to distribute food, water, and essential supplies.

The sudden eruption of tension along the border forced hundreds of families to flee their homes, seeking safety in makeshift shelters, local pagodas, churches, and temporary refugee camps. Among them are hundreds of Seventh-day Adventist church members who have lost access to their homes, livelihoods, and necessities.

“We are witnessing a critical need for food, shelter, and medical care among our brothers and sisters in these provinces,” said Hang Dara, CAM president. “While we thank God that leaders from both countries have met and agreed to a ceasefire, many displaced families remain hesitant to return because of ongoing fears and uncertainty.”

He continued, “We appeal to your generosity. Please consider supporting these families with your prayers, donations, or resources as they face this time of hardship. Together we can extend the love and compassion of Christ to those who are suffering.”

CAM’s immediate response reflects its ongoing commitment to care for the physical and spiritual well-being of its members in times of crisis. However, the scale of the need surpasses available resources. CAM is now calling on church members, partners, and supporters both locally and abroad to join this urgent humanitarian effort. Contributions will help provide continued aid until conditions stabilize and families can safely return to their communities, church leaders said.

Leaders also reported that Adventist churches across the Thai border region have opened their doors to house displaced families, serving those who arrived from both local and Cambodian border areas. Many more members are staying with friends, relatives, or in government shelters, they shared.

A Ceasefire and Ongoing Ministry

A ceasefire agreement has been in place for several days, offering cautious hope. However, violations have been reported almost daily, especially at night. Tensions remain high as both governments continue to monitor military activities and investigate reported drone sightings. In Thailand the government has issued a nationwide ban on drones because of rising security concerns.

Despite these uncertainties, signs of healing are emerging. Some refugees on the side of Thailand have chosen to return home. Adventist leaders have accompanied families during their repatriation, offering spiritual support and helping them resettle.

On Sabbath, August 2, border churches reopened for worship. A wedding was also conducted the following day for two Bible workers whose church lies near the border—a testimony of hope amid hardship. “Even in the storm,” said a local pastor, “God gives us moments to celebrate love, faith, and community.”

The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.