On 28 March, two strong earthquakes hit central Myanmar with epi-centres located near the cities of Mandalay and Sagaing. We are in contact with our local Church partners in the aftermath of this devastating crisis, the aftershocks of which are still being felt across the region.
According to the latest figures from Vatican News, over 2,700 people have been confirmed dead in Myanmar, and over 4,500 people are still missing.
Father Cyprian, Rector of the Missio-supported seminary in Yangon, describes the situation:
‘In Mandalay, Myanmar’s second largest city, countless buildings have collapsed. We fear that many people can only be recovered dead from the rubble. There is great chaos.’
Meanwhile Fr Henry, speaking on behalf of the Mandalay Catholic Emergency Rescue Team shared:
‘Amidst ongoing hardships—COVID-19, the military coup, civil war, and natural disasters—we now face the devastating impact of a powerful earthquake… We do not yet know exactly how great the destruction is, but one thing is clear: our Church partners are already on the ground and are helping those affected in need.’
Already weakened by war
Tragically, the civil war in Myanmar is ongoing, with airstrikes launched even after the earthquake had hit.
We recently reported from a refugee camp in Thailand where many people who have fled the war are being helped by the local missionary Church, supported by Missio. We are heartbroken that people who have already suffered so much are now facing a new hardship.
Under the guidance of Archbishop Marco, the Archdiocese of Mandalay has established an emergency rescue team to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the powerful earthquake. As with any emergency situation, the most urgent needs are humanitarian assistance, including food, medicine, temporary shelter, hygiene kits, and dignity kits.
In addition, the international community and the Church have called for peace. The Holy Father has also renewed his continued calls for peace. Vatican News reported:
‘The Holy Father shared his sorrow for the loss of life and widespread devastation, offered heartfelt prayers for the souls of the deceased, and reassured his spiritual closeness to all affected by the tragedy. In the future, financial assistance will be essential for rebuilding the community.’
Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, Archbishop of Yangon, who witnessed the earthquake first-hand, told Vatican News:
‘I have appealed to all concerned for urgent humanitarian support and unimpeded access to the affected people. I have made an earnest appeal for the ceasefire by all the groups in hostility.’
He added:
‘We are deeply touched by the promise of support by the Catholic Church everywhere. The people need food, shelter, medicine, and all life-saving materials. More than anything, our people need peace, not the churning anxiety triggered by the multidimensional crisis.’
Get involved
As well as calling for continuing prayers, the global Missio network is offering immediate help via the Catholic Church and its missionaries in Myanmar and surrounding countries. Â We were there before the earthquake, we are there today, and we will be there tomorrow, so that together we can help the people of Myanmar rebuild after this crisis.
- Please join us in prayer for the people of Myanmar. May God’s strength guide them through this traumatic time and may all those in power recognise that peace is the only way forward.
- A gift to our Mission Emergency Response fund will help the local Church provide essential support to people through this crisis and so many others around the world. Click here to choose a donation to Mission Emergency Response>>