


Our Story
Welcome to the page of Cambodian New Life Church and we are so blessed that you have found us. Let us briefly share a story of the conception of our church.
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Cambodian refugees migrating to the United States in the early 1980s is a poignant and significant chapter in the history of refugee resettlement. The origins of this migration can be traced back to the brutal regime of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia, which lasted from 1975 to 1979 under the leadership of Pol Pot. During this period, Cambodia experienced widespread atrocities, including mass killings, forced labor, and persecution.
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As the Khmer Rouge regime crumbled, a wave of Cambodian refugees sought asylum in neighboring countries, particularly Thailand. The United States, recognizing the humanitarian crisis, began accepting Cambodian refugees as part of its commitment to refugee resettlement.
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In 1979, the United States passed the Refugee Act, which increased the annual refugee admissions quota and provided a framework for the resettlement of refugees. This paved the way for the arrival of thousands of Cambodian refugees in the early 1980s. The refugees faced numerous challenges, including cultural adjustment, language barriers, and the trauma of their experiences under the Khmer Rouge.
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Many Cambodian refugees resettled in cities across the United States. Despite the difficulties, Cambodian refugees demonstrated resilience and determination to rebuild their lives in the United States. Over time, they made valuable contributions to their adopted communities, enriching the cultural tapestry of the nation. The story of Cambodian refugees in the early 1980s is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of providing refuge to those fleeing persecution and violence.
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As a group of Cambodian refugees in Houston, Texas, we found ourselves in a new land, each carrying stories of resilience and hope. The bustling streets and towering skyscrapers were a stark contrast to rice fields and traditional homes we had left behind. Amidst the challenges of adapting to a foreign culture, we discovered a common thread that would bind us together – a newfound faith in Jesus Christ.
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In early 2003, our small Cambodian Christian group in Houston was tight-knit, sharing not only a culture heritage but a journey of survival and renewal. In October 2003, a few families envisioned a space where we could worship, find solace, and build a sense of community. With determination in our heart and a shared vision, we decided to embark on a remarkable journey— the construction of the Cambodian New Life Church.​
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The Cambodian New Life Church became a beacon of hope for the community. We contributed not only our time and labor but also our dreams, as we forged a spiritual haven in the heart of Houston. ​As the construction progressed, the community became more than just fellow worshippers — we became a family. Sundays were a celebration of faith, cultural heritage, and the bonds we had formed. The church echoed with hymns in Khmer and English, bridging the gap between our past and present.
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In October 29, 2023, we celebrated our 20th anniversary, and the service was a momentous occasion, marked by prayers of gratitude and thanksgiving. The Cambodian New Life Church not only became a spiritual home but also a symbol of our ability to overcome adversity and build anew.
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In the heart of Houston, amidst the diversity of cultures and beliefs, the Cambodian New Life Church became a testament to the strength that comes from unity, faith, and the shared dream of a better tomorrow.