Phnom Penh, Cambodia - The "Royal Plowing Ceremony" took place yesterday with the Buddhist Monk astrologers standing by to interpret the event. As the Royal oxen ate 90% of the corn, beans and rice offered them, the Monk predicted a good harvest. However, because they refused water, the traditional interpretation is that there will be a shortage of rain. The astrologer, trying to put a positive political twist on this said, "It means there will be enough rain." The Prime Minister and other high government officials avoided the celebration this year, siting the failure of the predictions for the last five years. In 2000, drought was predicted and the largest flood of this century took place. As a result, many people are questioning the pseudo science of astrology, which has been used in Cambodia to predict everything from the harvest to the right day to get married on, start a business or sell a pig.

Deeply imbedded in the society, Astrology, Fortune Telling, Witchcraft and Chance have become the curse to the entire society. The Prime Minister refused to go to the Royal Plowing but he often speaks of consulting his fortune teller and acting on his predictions. These are a few of the reasons Cambodians are seeking the true light. "Centuries of going backward," one young man told me, "have prepared us to open our eyes and move forward." Opening their eyes, many are coming to the Lord.

Recently our Medical Team radiated God's Love and Light throughout central Cambodia by treating hundreds and sharing His love and concern.

I think we better understand the activities of the Apostle Paul in cities like Corinth and Ephesus than we did a couple of years ago. He too faced astrologers, witches and idolaters.

William E. "Bill" McDonough, Director
Partners In Progress
Phnom Penh, Cambodia