October 2024 - Cambodia Mission Trip / Three-Part Newsletter

Part 1 - Training the Sheepdogs

For the past year, Team 144 has been conducting specialized self-defense training for a committed group of students in Cambodia. These students, all staff members of Hard Places Community (HPC), have been faithfully attending weekly Zoom classes every Monday at 7:30 PM CST (Tuesday 7:30 AM their time). Over the course of these one-hour sessions, Team 144 has helped these students build on the foundation of self-defense training that began 12 years ago with a simple request.

In 2012, Alli, the Director of HPC, asked Pastor Dwayne Higgason if he would come to Cambodia to train her staff in self-defense. That request sparked a mission that has only grown stronger over the years. HPC is a Christ-centered organization whose mission is to bring justice, redemption, hope, and restoration to the most vulnerable and broken individuals. Equipping their staff with the skills to protect themselves and others has become a vital part of that mission.

Since that first request, Pastor Higgason has led multiple teams of self-defense instructors to Cambodia, providing hands-on training to HPC staff. With the founding of Team 144, the mission evolved, now focusing on training Krav Maga instructors who can equip missionaries around the world. The Weekly Cambodia Zoom Class represents the latest chapter in this journey, preparing these students not only to defend themselves but also to eventually teach others.

This past mission trip to Cambodia marked the fulfillment of a 12-year dream. Pastor Higgason and Team 144 instructors had the privilege of working with their Cambodian students in person after months of virtual training. For two days, they helped these students prepare for the Level 1 Krav Maga Alliance Student Test, and on the third day, the students were ready to face the challenge.

It was an incredible sight. The students fought through the grueling, 4-hour physical exam with determination. It was amazing to see them pushing through the sweat, pain, and exhaustion. They didn’t just pass the test—they passed with excellence. Watching them overcome every obstacle was a true testament to their commitment and growth.

Team 144 was created to “Help World Changers Stay Safe,” and this mission trip to Cambodia embodied that vision. Seeing these students become more confident, capable, and ready to carry the torch forward was a powerful reminder of the impact this mission continues to have.

Thank you for your continued support, prayers, and partnership in this life-changing work.