July 2025 Newsletter Update

Meat & fruit market a corner from the base.

Dear Prayer Warriors,

I pray this message finds you well and deeply rooted in the peace of Christ.

I am reaching out with a heavy heart to share a serious and urgent situation unfolding in Southeast Asia. As of the morning of July 24, 2025, Thailand and Cambodia have entered into open conflict over long-disputed border territory, particularly concerning ancient temple lands.

This situation has deeply impacted the area of Poipet, a Cambodian city located right on the Thai border, just a 10-minute drive from the frontline of the conflict. Many of you will remember that Poipet is where I first began my ministry in Cambodia, and it’s where my journey with YWAM Cambodia truly began. When we pioneered the YWAM base in Siem Reap last year, we came out of that very community, and remain closely connected with mission teams and an orphanage serving there.

Due to live attacks, bombing, and growing instability, the YWAM Poipet team is now in the process of evacuating. Praise God, areas such as Siem Reap (my location) and Phnom Penh are currently considered the safest, and efforts are underway to relocate our teams and those under their care. These areas (Siem Reap & Phnom Penh) are home to government and cultural sites and will be given more protection in these particular regions if things escalate. At this time, those measures are unnecessary, but in motion if the need arises. The orphanage and our Poipet team are expected to arrive at our Siem Reap base tomorrow. Our base is also currently working to secure additional housing next to our base and provide food for displaced families who have had to evacuate due to safety concerns. We are doing all we can to offer a safe and welcoming space during this time of uncertainty.

I want to assure you that I am safe, and while I do not feel personally in danger, I felt it was important to keep you in the loop so you can pray specifically and intentionally. Airports remain open (if needed to use), and cafes and other businesses are still operating. While we are closely monitoring the situation, everything in the city is currently calm and functioning smoothly. The current conflict remains along the border.

Our leaders and staff across the YWAM bases are actively monitoring the situation and preparing for every possible outcome. Clear contingency plans are in place should students or teams need to evacuate, relocate, or serve temporarily from safer regions. Safety is our highest priority for all missionaries, teams, students, and children.

At this time, the best ways to reach me are through Facebook Messenger (*private/ direct messaging preferred), WhatsApp, or by email.

We are asking you to join us in urgent prayer:

• For protection and safe evacuation for our team in Poipet.

  
  

• For peace and wisdom for the governments of Cambodia and Thailand.

  
  

• For the vulnerable communities and children who are directly impacted by the violence.

  
  

• For the YWAM Cambodia family, especially those who are on the front lines.

  
  

This is a moment when the power of the Church’s intercession is most needed. We trust in God’s sovereign hand even amid uncertainty.

Thank you for your prayers and partnership as we navigate this with wisdom, care, and faith. I will continue to keep you updated as the situation unfolds.

- Blessings, Lexi