John and Debbie Coats, commissioned as missionaries in 1996, gather their children Micah and Jesse about them in the church parlor. John and Debbie help meet basic food and health needs in rural Cambodia, slowly rebuilding after the devastation of war.

Debbie illustrates how inventive the Cambodia people are with the Kroma. It is used as a head piece, towel, baby carrier, blanket, mosquito net, diaper, hammock, tow rope and many other things.

The Coats children are fluent in the Cambodian language. Here in a lighthearted exchange, Debbie asks in Cambodian if Jesse's Mom is the prettiest Mom he knows.

The family has become very close in their service to God in Cambodia. They rarely have American visitors, but have become integrated into their Cambodian community through carrying their message and helping the people live a better life.

Debbie has assembled a group of women who come into her home for Bible study. Spiritual oppression is common in the community and the Coatses must be careful in the way they communicate God's word. Debbie, a nurse practitioner, works to improve nurses' clinical skills and trains villagers in basic healthcare.

John told several stories of obstacles overcome through prayer. At times the missionaries seem to have come to a dead end with some pressing need of the people--like digging a well--and, following their prayers, a stranger has come forward to help them. John introduced simple well-drilling and trains farmers to teach others agricultural skills and to raise fish.

Jean reviews the many photos and exhibits brought by the Coatses to tell the story of their mission work. They also brought an excellent video produced by a friend of John's.

The congregation heard the many obstacles faced by the Cambodian people served by the Coatses. Cambodians have the lowest literacy rate and the highest AIDs rate in Asia.

Brenda Sawtelle talks with Jesse Coats as the congregation and the missionaries enjoy fellowship following the presentation. The two boys are home schooled and have learned to love simple games with their Cambodian friends. There are no TVs or video games in the rural area where the family serves.

Detailed photographs of life in the rural village helped the congregation understand the Coatses' mission. The Coatses started and maintain a TB clinic, helped initiate 500 wells, taught Bible study groups, and taught scripture to their staff.