Amidst the heart-wrenching tragedy that struck the village of Pyin Oo Lwin, more than 5,000 mourners gathered to bid their final farewell to Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, the Catholic priest brutally murdered on February 14 in his parish of Our Lady of Lourdes in the Archdiocese of Mandalay.
Despite the prevailing violence and dangers, priests, religious figures, and the faithful came together at the Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Archbishop Marco Tin Win led the funeral Mass, offering solace and prayers for the grieving community.
The moving ceremony included heartfelt messages from the Apostolic Nunciature in Yangon and the Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar, expressing solidarity with the bereaved. The overwhelming turnout at the funeral highlighted the profound impact Father Donald had on the local people.
During his homily, Archbishop Tin Win denounced the cycle of violence plaguing the nation, emphasizing the need for peace and reconciliation. He called upon all involved in the conflict to lay down their arms and embrace a path of harmony.
Father Donald, known for his dedication to the community, especially in organizing educational programs for children, was a beacon of hope in the midst of turmoil. His untimely death has sparked calls for justice and accountability.
In the quest for answers, the People’s Defense Force (PDF) has taken steps to investigate the attack, detaining suspects to determine those responsible for the heinous crime.
As Myanmar grapples with ongoing conflict and unrest, the Catholic Church continues to advocate for peace and reconciliation, urging all parties to prioritize dialogue over violence.
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