The Adoratrices Sisters (Handmaids of the Blessed Sacrament and of Charity) inaugurated their new home in Phnom Penh on March 20, with a blessing ceremony led by Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler, Apostolic Vicar of Phnom Penh and Coadjutor Bishop Pierre Suon Hangly.
The ceremony was attended by staff, members of the Catholic faithful, local authorities, and numerous national and international guests.
The new facility aims to provide shelter and support for women and children affected by violence and abandonment.
This home is the culmination of a vision held by the Adoratrices Sisters since their arrival in Cambodia in 2002. The Sisters began their mission in Siem Reap in 2007 by establishing the Renacer: Walk with Women program, which focuses on assisting survivors of violence, abandoned pregnant women, and those seeking to leave the sex trade and rebuild their lives. In 2017, they expanded to Phnom Penh, operating from rented houses until the completion of this permanent residence.
Speaking at the event, Bishop Pierre Suon Hangly said, “This home is more than just a building; it is a vital foundation for helping women and children abandoned by society rediscover their self-worth and reintegrate into community life.”
He added that the center will also serve as a hub for psychological counseling and children’s education, helping promote healing and social reintegration.
Currently, the residence accommodates five women and seven children.
Sr. Pilar Casas Navarro, Superior General of the Adoratrices and head of the Renacer project, explained that the design of the new home emphasizes openness. The use of glass walls instead of solid partitions symbolizes the need for residents to “open their hearts” to a new beginning, reflecting the meaning of Renacer, or “rebirth.”
“We are not here simply to work or manage a project; we are here for a mission, to love and to serve,” Sr. Pilar said. “This home is a dream come true. It is a place where they can feel part of a family and rediscover dignity, hope, and new life.”
Staff member Seng Sovann noted that, in addition to basic care, the team provides supplementary tutoring in English and Mathematics to ensure that the children receive a proper education.
Bishop Olivier Schmitthaeusler highlighted the significance of the Sisters’ presence, saying, “Their presence is a testimony to the living history of our Church, continuing the mission of Jesus. This home will bring light and hope to those in darkness.”
He also emphasized that the Sisters’ work complements the Church’s broader mission to respond to the needs of the most vulnerable.
Currently, the Adoratrices Sisters run two missions in Cambodia: one in Banteay Meanchey with two members, and the main mission in Phnom Penh with five members.
The inauguration concluded in an atmosphere of warmth and solidarity, with bishops, priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful united in their commitment to humanitarian service in Cambodia.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
Latest News
