Protestantism was first introduced to Plei Mo Nu village in 1958 by Pastor Ksor Ghao. In 1964, Pastor Ksor Brao and Pastor Truong Van Sang began preaching to the local people. Six years later, RCom Oi became the first follower of Protestantism in the village. As the congregation grew, followers gathered at a local house to practise their religion. The Plei Mo Nu church was inaugurated in January, 2017.
The entrance to Plei Mo Nu Protestant church (Photo: Ngoc Anh/VOV5)

Pastor Puih Blik said, “Local Protestants used to attend a prayer meeting in a house that had a corrugated iron roof, so it was really hot. We are delighted to have a dedicated church. We come here for sermons and prayers on Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, and on Tuesday and Thursday, we practice singing. I have been here since 2014. I preach the word of God to local people and ask them to honor God, avoid evil acts, be tender-hearted, and spread love.”

Plei Mo Nu church covers 610 square meters on a mound next to a pine-covered hill. Numerous windows and doors let abundant natural light into the church, which is equipped with sound, lighting, and fan systems. The church is surrounded by greenery. Trees, flowers, bonsais, and grass form a pleasant mini park.

Plei Mo Nu Protestant church (Photo: Ngoc Anh/VOV5)

Deacon Siu Mor of Plei Mo Nu church said, “We have a beautiful church which can accommodate 1,000 people. This is where we address every village issue, religious or non-religious. We are seeking permission to expand the church.”

The church is crowded on Sunday. 1,000 villagers are now Protestants, all of them Jrai ethnic people. Every time they come to the church, they donate money and rice, which is then distributed by deacons to the poorest villagers or used for repairs. At each religious service, the church members thank God for their health and wisdom, sing hymns, and listen to preaching by the pastors and deacons.

Villager Rina told VOV, “Almost all the villagers are Protestants. The church is packed with followers on the weekend when we’re off from work. We honor our parents on Thursday and honor God on Sunday. Going to the church for confession gives us a feeling of relief and reminds us to do good deeds as God teaches us.”
Plei Mo Nu villagers go to the church. (Photo: Ngoc Anh/VOV5)

Plei Mo Nu church is in a western style with ethnic decorative touches. This is both a place of worship and a tourist attraction.