Bishop Calls Vicariate of Phnom Penh as “One Large Family” at First-Ever Pastoral Gathering in Siem Reap

The Catholic Vicariate of Phnom Penh in Cambodia held its first-ever pastoral gathering under the theme “The Vicariate of Phnom Penh Is Full of Life”, bringing together clergy, religious, and lay leaders for a celebration of communion, mission, and shared service.

The two-day gathering was held on February 5–6, 2026, at the Sokha Siem Reap Hotel, in Siem Reap, northwestern Cambodia, under the leadership and guidance of Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler and Coadjutor Bishop Peter Hangly Suon.

The program began on the afternoon of February 5, with around 600 participants, including priests serving the vicariate, religious men and women, staff from various Church sectors, and parish committee representatives from 10 pastoral centers: North of Phnom Penh, South of Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh Thmey, Sihanoukville–Koh Kong, Kampot–Kep, Takeo, Holy Way, Mekong River, Bassac River, and Ta Khmau.

On the morning of February 6, a solemn Thanksgiving Mass was celebrated, presided over by Bishop Olivier and concelebrated by Bishop Hangly. In his homily, Bishop Olivier reminded participants of their essential role in bringing “light” and “abundant life” to the people through the Church’s many ministries, including education, healthcare, the arts, human development, eco-tourism, and social communications.

“Our unique role is to guide and nurture the spirit, soul, and heart of the people entrusted to us, including ourselves,” Bishop Olivier said. “We do this by showing love and empathy in truth, so that each person can take responsibility for their own life.”

He added that every sector of the Church functions as a “small light,” enabling everyone to contribute to the building of society today.

In the afternoon, participants visited Angkor Wat, a World Heritage site and one of Cambodia’s most treasured cultural legacies. The day concluded with an evening program featuring presentations from the 10 pastoral centers, as well as performances highlighting the Church’s presence in education, human resource development, charitable works, youth and adolescent ministry, Catholic media, faith formation, and the arts.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Olivier described the Vicariate of Phnom Penh as “one large family” that flourishes by joining forces to sow seeds of love. He thanked priests, religious, and lay collaborators for being the “vital engine” in bringing life and hope to people from all walks of life.

Through their inclusive service, he said, they make Christ present and help build a society rooted in justice, compassion, and peace.

Coadjutor Bishop Peter Hangly Suon also addressed the assembly, reminding participants that all Church activities are gifts from God through Christ.

“We are like drops of fresh water in the ocean,” he said, “helping people live better lives where they are.”

He encouraged Church workers to have “bigger hearts,” to remain hopeful, and to be united by God’s love—especially during moments of hardship, tension, or misunderstanding—so they may strengthen their shared mission.

Participants expressed gratitude for the opportunity to gather and build relationships across pastoral centers. Mr. Prak Phearak, from the Sihanoukville–Koh Kong pastoral hub, said the event allowed staff and faithful to meet face-to-face for the first time.

“Previously, our communication was limited to Telegram or phone calls,” he said. “Meeting in person made it much easier to build relationships.”

He added that despite the heat during the visit to Angkor Wat, participants were joyful, especially those visiting Siem Reap for the first time.

Ms. Teresa Chem Sreymich, from the Parish Committee of the Child Jesus Church in Boeung Tumpun, also shared her appreciation.

“I did not know many brothers and sisters from other parishes before,” she said. “Today I met so many—both long-time workers and newcomers. This program is a gift from God through the leadership of Bishop Olivier. I hope there will be more gatherings like this in the future.”

The gathering concluded with a communal dinner, celebrated in the spirit of unity and shared mission, reinforcing the vision of the Vicariate of Phnom Penh as one family journeying together in faith and service.