Bishop Henry Eikhlein of the Pathein Diocese traveled to Letthama Parish on August 13 to personally meet with and encourage faithful affected by severe flooding in the region.

The flooding began on the night of July 30 following a breach in a dam at Laymyatna Township, Ayeyarwady Region. As of August 14, many villages across the township continue to face rising water levels and severe inundation.

The flooding has significantly affected the daily lives and livelihoods of people living in many villages, leaving them in urgent need of emergency assistance. Among those affected are members of the Pathein Catholic Diocese, particularly the faithful of Letthama Parish. They are currently facing difficult conditions and are in need of assistance with their necessities and daily living.

Bishop’s Visit Offers Comfort and Hope

Bishop Henry Eikhlein’s visit offered comfort, solidarity, and hope to the community as they continue to face the challenges caused by the flooding. He prayed together with the flood-affected faithful at the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Letthama Parish, asking God to grant comfort, protection, and hope to the families affected by the flooding.

The Bishop’s presence was a powerful reminder that the Church stands with its people in times of crisis. His prayers and words of encouragement provided spiritual strength to those who have lost homes, livelihoods, and a sense of normalcy.

Meeting with Parish Leaders

In addition, Bishop Henry Eikhlein met with Fr. Cyril Soe Lat, Parish Priest of Letthama Parish; Assistant Fr. Firmin Soe Htun Kyaw; the priests accompanying the Bishop; and members of the Parish Pastoral Council.

During the meeting, the Bishop recommended establishing a disaster response team to effectively respond to the current flooding and other natural disasters that may occur in the future. The proposal reflects a long-term vision for disaster preparedness and community resilience.

The Bishop also spoke about the damage caused by the flooding and the rehabilitation needs in the areas of health and education. He encouraged the parish leaders to pay close attention to the immediate needs of the flood-affected faithful.

Planning for Recovery

Bishop Eikhlein urged parish leaders to prepare for systematic, long-term recovery and rehabilitation efforts once the flood situation improves. He emphasized that while immediate relief is crucial, sustainable recovery plans are equally important for rebuilding lives and communities.

The flooding in Laymyana Township is part of a broader pattern of natural disasters affecting Myanmar. The Ayeyarwady Region, a low-lying delta area, is particularly vulnerable to flooding during the monsoon season.

For the Catholic community in Letthama, the Bishop’s visit was a source of hope amid the devastation. His call for a disaster response team and systematic recovery planning offers a path forward for the community as they navigate the difficult days ahead.

The faithful of Letthama Parish continue to face significant challenges, but they do so with the knowledge that their Church leaders stand with them in solidarity and prayer.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service