Church in Myanmar welcomes Pope Francis’ appeal for displaced people

Catholics in Myanmar welcomed Pope Francis’ appeal for help for people displaced by the ongoing conflict in the Southeast Asian country.

“We are very grateful to Pope Francis. When the pontiff speaks, the people of Myanmar feel very encouraged and moved,” said Archbishop Marco Tin Win of the Archdiocese of Mandalay.

The Church leader said even non-Catholics listen the pope’s message. “It is a very important support for all of us, in this tragedy,” he said.

The archbishop also welcomed the arms embargo declared by several countries on Myanmar.

The European Union on Monday imposed a third round of sanctions on Myanmar officials and state companies over the military coup.

“The Burmese population was waiting for this decision. We hope it will be a first step to stop the violence and resume a path of peace,” he said.

“What the pope said strengthened me,” said Sister Christina Zarni of the Missionary Sisters of Providence congregation.

The nun said she feels that “our leader cares for us and does not forget us … and it shows that he is with the needy and the least.”

Pope Francis on Sunday appealed for help for the people of Myanmar, especially for those who have been displaced due to the conflict following the February 1 military coup.

“I join my voice to that of the bishops of Myanmar,” said the pope after the Sunday prayer of the Angelus in the Vatican.

The Catholic bishops of Myanmar have earlier issued a statement appealing for peace, a humanitarian corridor in the conflict zones, and respect for the sanctity of places of worship.

Civilians in Karen State, Kayah State, and Chin State in Myanmar had to take refuge in the forest due to government military operations against a growing resistance movement.

Father Saw Titus of the Archdiocese of Yangon expressed his gratitude for the pontiff’s call for humanitarian help.

The priest said that without help “there will be more death and suffering due to injuries, sickness, and bad weather.”

Father James Eishu of the Diocese of Pathein said the pope’s message “shows the Church’s concern for people who are the least in the world.” - Raymond Kyaw Aung/RVA News with a report from LiCAS.news