The Radio Veritas Asia (RVA) Myanmar Language Service held a significant return to community gathering in years on Sunday, marking a milestone in its continued service despite the pandemic, political unrest, and a devastating earthquake.

The RVA Day and Thanksgiving Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral on January 18 was presided over by Archbishop Marco Tin Win of Mandalay Archdiocese. It marked a poignant reunion for the broadcaster and its listeners after a long hiatus.

“Since 2019, due to the COVID-19 period and other circumstances, we lost the opportunity to meet with our listeners,” said Fr. Peter Kyi Maung, the Myanmar Service’s coordinator. He expressed gratitude for the chance to honor donors and the small, dedicated team that has kept the service alive.

In his homily, Archbishop Marco addressed modern anxieties, urging the faithful to deepen their faith. “We must strive to increase our faith, knowing that only God can guide us through our anxieties,” he said.

The event highlighted the personal impact of the radio ministry. Auntie Mary, a long-time listener, recalled the “radio era” when she would communicate via letters. “Listening to RVA gives me a lot of strength,” she said, noting that her daughter abroad relies on RVA’s digital online sermons when unable to attend physical church services.

Collette Tun Lwin Oo, a listener since 2005, praised the educational content for youth and suggested reviving interactive segments, such as “Letters to and from Listeners,” to further bridge the gap between the studio and the audience.

The RVA Myanmar service, established in 1978, transitioned to a digital-first platform in 2018. Its resilience was tested again after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck on March 28, 2025. The five-member team—consisting of Fr. Peter, Sr. Regina Moe Moe Khaing, and three laymen—quickly resumed daily broadcasts of audio reflections, news, and interreligious dialogue.

Founded in 1969 as a project of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, Radio Veritas Asia aims to be the “Voice of Asian Christianity.” The Myanmar service remains a vital lifeline for Burmese-speaking Catholics, both at home and abroad, proving that even a small broadcast can sustain a large community through times of profound change.

By RVA Myanmar Service