Challenges Faced by the Christian Faith in Myanmar
In a recent synod Mass, the Archbishop of Yangon, Charles Bo, highlighted the unique challenges that the Christian faith faces in Myanmar.
He expressed the profound difficulties experienced by the Christian community in the country, emphasizing that their faith journey is more challenged in Myanmar than anywhere else in Asia.
This is due to a combination of natural disasters and manmade crises that have caused multidimensional problems and immense suffering for the small Christian flock in Myanmar.
Homes Vanished, Churches Suffer
Archbishop Bo pointed out that the consequences of these challenges are devastating.
Homes have been destroyed, and churches have borne the brunt of cruelty.
The Christian community is dispersed and struggling to cope with the dire circumstances they find themselves in.
A Journey of Faith and Hope
Despite these hardships, Archbishop Bo drew a parallel with the faithful women who followed Jesus to the cross.
He compared the Church in Asia to these women, stating that they are continuing their synodal journey, albeit with tears, in the hope that all wounds will be healed.
They anticipate a new dawn of hope, peace, and justice shining upon nations that have long endured suffering.
Prayers for Unity and Democracy
During the synod Mass, the congregation offered prayers for two specific intentions.
First, they prayed for the Church in mainland China, asking that it may increasingly preserve and celebrate its communion of love and life with the universal Church.
Second, they prayed for the Church in Myanmar, which is striving for democracy and the rule of law.
Their prayers also sought an end to all forms of violence in the nation.
The Legacy for the Next Generation
Archbishop Bo’s homily also touched on a pressing concern during the synod—the legacy that will be left for the next generation.
He expressed alarm about the environment, which has been borrowed from the young, and the potential loss of a more peaceful world with the integrity of creation intact.
Global warming was highlighted as a critical issue that has devastated communities and livelihoods, endangering the future of the next generation.
In conclusion, Archbishop Charles Bo’s message at the synod Mass underscores the immense challenges faced by the Christian community in Myanmar, calls for hope, unity, and peace, and emphasizes the importance of addressing environmental issues for the sake of future generations.
World News