Not long after I came to Battambang I noticed one morning that colorful banners had appeared along the paths surrounding the Church. What’s this? Well they signaled the arrival of Pchum ben.
This is a 15 day period of annual remembrance and special prayers for the souls of the dead.
A family or several families join together and adopt a day on which prayers are said at mass for their past family members and again in a special service later that same day.
After their services the family provides food to those attending.
This is a 15 day period of annual remembrance and special prayers for the souls of the dead.
A family or several families join together and adopt a day on which prayers are said at mass for their past family members and again in a special service later that same day.
After their services the family provides food to those attending.
At the start of morning mass the family members distribute smoldering joss sticks to the congregation who in turn place them before the altar and incense fills the air. Meanwhile, the priest reads aloud the names of departed family members ensuring accuracy of pronunciation so as not to cause any offence to the family. Oh poor Father. Today’s family has provided a list of 170 names!
As pchum ben now draws to an end I’m impressed how the church community remembers its departed souls in a Christian way which is sympathetic to Cambodia’s Buddhist culture and traditions.
Mr. Tony Fenlon Photo by Vong Rethy
Mr. Tony Fenlon Photo by Vong Rethy
RSS Feed
