By Kate Quiñones
CNA Staff, Feb 11, 2025 / 16:20 pm
A newly-designated Catholic cathedral in Myanmar was bombed by the military regime last week amid an ongoing conflict in the region.
The Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Mindat was severely damaged by airstrikes by the Myanmar military regime in Chin, Myanmar’s only Christian-majority state.
Though the damage took place on Feb. 6, news of the bombing has only recently come to light. The church’s roof and stained-glass windows were destroyed, rendering the church unusable, according to Fides, the information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies. No injuries were reported and the area had recently been evacuated.
Less than two weeks before the bombing, on Jan. 25, Pope Francis designated the church a cathedral for the newly-formed Diocese of Mindat. In the days leading up to the attack, local Catholics were planning upcoming liturgical celebrations, including the consecration of the newly-appointed bishop, Father Augustine Thang Zawm Hung, Fides reported.
The newly-formed Diocese of Mindat has a total population of almost 360,000, with more than 14,000 Catholics and 23 parishes, according to the Holy See.
A local priest, identified as Father Paulinus, told Fides that the faithful are determined to rebuild.
“We are very sad that our church has been hit by the bombs. It is a wound in our heart. But we will not let ourselves be defeated. We will rebuild it,” the local priest said.
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We are firm believers that the Lord will shower us with His grace and blessings, bringing peace and prosperity to our people.
In the aftermath of the devastating destruction of the Mindat church, Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon urged Catholics to pray for those affected by the violent conflicts in Myanmar.
Formerly known as Burma, Myanmar has been plagued by violent conflict since a military coup in 2021 overthrew the elected government. This led to widespread resistance, protests, and armed conflicts, plunging the nation into a humanitarian crisis.
With civilian casualties surpassing 6,000 and millions displaced, the military junta’s brutal actions have caused immense suffering. The country is now on the brink of famine as hospitals, schools, and religious buildings are targeted.
Despite the upcoming election in 2025, which restricts participation to junta-approved parties, Myanmar’s history of armed clashes and military rule continues to haunt the nation.
Cardinal Bo has been vocal about religious freedom concerns, highlighting the attacks on over 100 places of worship in Myanmar. The country’s diversity, with over 100 ethnic groups, has also fueled ethnic-based conflicts.
As we navigate through these challenging times, let us come together in prayer and solidarity for the people of Myanmar, trusting that the Lord’s grace will guide us towards peace and prosperity.
