When a disaster strikes, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the scale of it all.
For the people of Myanmar, March 28, 2025, brought a tragedy that’s almost impossible to comprehend.
Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, the Archbishop of Yangon, described the aftermath of a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake as a catastrophic event akin to “330 atomic bombs” hitting the region all at once.
The earthquake’s toll was staggering—more than 3,500 people lost their lives, nearly 5,000 were injured, and hundreds are still missing.
But even amidst the despair, the resilience of the people and the rapid response from both local and international rescue teams provide a glimmer of hope.
Desperate Scenes Amid the Ruins
According to Cardinal Bo, the scenes of destruction were nothing short of apocalyptic.
Thousands of people are still desperately searching for loved ones trapped beneath the rubble.
The disaster has caused immense suffering, with many now exposed to the elements in the wake of the quake.
However, the story isn’t just one of loss and devastation. Over 600 survivors have been pulled from the wreckage, thanks to the efforts of emergency teams that have worked tirelessly, even in the hardest-hit areas where the situation is dire.
Church Responds in the Midst of Crisis
While the local Catholic Church also suffered significant damage, it has been quick to mobilize and provide much-needed assistance.
Cardinal Bo described the Church as a “wounded healer,” offering comfort and resources in the aftermath of the disaster.
“We’re moving quickly with our pastoral concerns,” he said, noting that many churches and parishes had been badly damaged, leaving thousands of people living outdoors.
The Church has stepped in, providing food, water, medicine, and shelter to save lives and help those in need.
But the struggle doesn’t end with physical needs. The Church is also focusing on the psychological toll the tragedy has taken on the affected communities, with religious leaders offering compassionate support to those traumatized by the events.
Myanmar’s Ongoing Struggles Amid Natural and Man-made Disasters
The earthquake’s timing couldn’t have been worse. Myanmar has been grappling with the devastating effects of a civil war ever since the 2021 military coup.
Cardinal Bo called for a ceasefire, urging all parties to put down their weapons and focus on humanitarian efforts instead of continuing the violence.
“This is not the time to take up arms,” he pleaded. “It’s the time to take up first aid kits and treat people.”
The ongoing conflict has already caused significant suffering—forcing thousands into displacement, leaving the country’s economy in ruins, and making it difficult for aid to reach those who need it most.
Cardinal Bo lamented how the war has worsened the situation, saying, “The conflict has inflicted a visceral wound on our people, and conflict only exacerbates these wounds.”
Humanitarian Aid Faces Roadblocks Amid Ongoing Fighting
While the earthquake has brought immense suffering, it’s not the first crisis Myanmar has faced.
Even before the quake, the country was battling the effects of the ongoing civil war, which has displaced millions and caused severe economic hardship.
With armed groups controlling large areas, it’s become nearly impossible for humanitarian aid to reach everyone in need.
The ongoing conflict has complicated the distribution of aid, with many areas of the country, including major highways, under the control of armed groups.
This makes it even more difficult to deliver essential supplies like food, water, and medical care to affected communities.
Caritas Internationalis Steps In to Help
In the face of this overwhelming disaster, organizations like Caritas Internationalis have stepped up to assist.
Cardinal Bo praised the support the Church has received from these international partners, noting that Caritas has been instrumental in providing both training and resources to respond to the needs of those affected.
“Caritas has been our trusted partner throughout,” he said, acknowledging how the organization’s preparation and training were crucial in this moment of crisis.
With their help, the local teams are now ready to provide aid, including water, medical care, food, and shelter.
A Message of Hope Amid Tragedy
Even as the people of Myanmar face unimaginable hardship, Cardinal Bo remains hopeful.
He shared that the international Catholic community has pledged its full support, and Pope Francis himself has been a source of strength for the country.
“The international Catholic community has been a great source of support, and we are deeply moved by the concern shown by the Vatican,” Bo said.
Despite the scale of the tragedy, the cardinal believes that the people of Myanmar will rebuild, drawing strength from their faith and the support they’re receiving from around the world.
