Amidst escalating civil conflict, widespread displacement, and the aftermath of a devastating earthquake, three Catholic Bishops from northern Myanmar have issued a powerful joint pastoral letter urging their flocks towards faith, unity, and perseverance.

The letter, emphasizing “Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled” and released on July 7th, comes as the nation grapples with profound suffering.

Signed by Bishop John M. La Sam (Myitkyina Diocese), Bishop Raymond Sumlut Gam (Banmaw Diocese), and Bishop Lucas J. Dau Ze (Lashio Diocese), the letter starkly acknowledges the “immense hardship” endured by the people of Myanmar.

The bishops specifically cited the intensifying civil war over the past four years and the destructive March 28th earthquake as compounding catastrophes.

“In the past four years, the conflict has become more intense and violent, causing countless people to lose their lives, homes, farms, and lands,” the bishops stated. “Many areas have been destroyed. Millions of people have been displaced and are now living in large refugee camps.”

Facing this overwhelming reality, the bishops pointed directly to the words of Jesus Christ as the foundation for hope: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me” (John 14:1).

They acknowledged the despair threatening to engulf communities but urged resilience rooted in faith.

“No matter how difficult life is, if we surrender everything to God with faith, we can endure all hardships with patience,” they wrote. “When we carry our cross with Jesus, He will comfort and strengthen us.”

Citing the Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 4:8-9), the letter affirmed a core message of steadfastness despite affliction: “We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.”

The bishops extended a call to action grounded in solidarity. They urged all members of the Church – clergy, religious, and laity – to actively work for peace, engage in fervent prayer, and prioritize care for one another.

This mutual support was highlighted as especially crucial during the ongoing Jubilee Year of Hope.

“Let us pray for one another, encourage one another, and help one another,” the bishops implored. “We — the bishops, priests, sisters, brothers, and all those serving in the mission field—must pray for the lay faithful and care for them with dedication.”

Concluding with a unifying vision inspired by Pope Leo XIII, the bishops rallied their people: “Let us work together for peace with one heart and mind — praying and doing all we can.”

The letter stands as a poignant spiritual appeal for resilience and communal action amidst one of Myanmar’s most challenging periods.

By RVA Kachin Lisu Service