Bishop Raymond Sumlut Gam of Banmaw Diocese visited internally displaced persons (IDPs) across several parishes from July 22 to 24, bringing prayer, encouragement, and material support to faithful who have fled conflict, even as the diocesan center itself lies in ruins.

The bishop traveled to Han Htet, Maing Hkawng, Nam Hpu, Mya Le, and Momawk parishes, where he prayed with the faithful, offered words of encouragement, and gave special attention to the elderly and sick. His presence, he said, was an expression of his role as a shepherd to his flock.

“I come to you not with grand words but with a shepherd’s heart,” Bishop Raymond told the displaced faithful. “In times of great suffering, we must remember that God has not abandoned us. He walks with us even through the valley of the shadow of death.”

A Visit to Han Htet IDP Camps

At Han Htet village in Manje parish, Bishop Raymond visited two IDP camps and distributed food gifts to the sick, elderly, and those unable to walk. Camp I houses 70 IDP households, while an additional 30 households are sheltering within the village itself.

The camps have become a refuge not only for residents of Han Htet but also for families displaced from Banmaw, Manje, Nmawk, Wa Wang, and surrounding areas. Families from as far as two-mile and three-mile villages are living together in the camp, sharing whatever resources they have.

A Diocese Devastated by War

The pastoral visit comes at a time of immense loss for the Diocese of Banmaw. St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Bishop’s Office, the Bishop’s residence, and several diocesan buildings were destroyed by fire. Throughout the diocese, countless communities have been devastated by the ongoing conflict.

Despite the destruction, Bishop Raymond has remained close to his people. His visit to the IDP camps was a powerful gesture of solidarity, reminding the displaced that they are not forgotten.

A Call to Prayer

In a humble appeal, Bishop Raymond invited the RVA Audience and brothers and sisters everywhere to pray for the IDPs in Banmaw Diocese and for the displaced people everywhere.

“Let us continue to pray for Myanmar’s speedy peace and stability,” he said. “Only through prayer and unity can we hope to see an end to this suffering.”

The bishop’s visit offered a brief moment of comfort to families who have lost everything—homes, livelihoods, and loved ones. His presence served as a reminder that even in the darkest times, the Church walks with its people.

By RVA Kachin Jinghpaw Service