In a powerful act of solidarity, Bishop John Mung Ngawn La Sam of Myitkyina Diocese, Myanmar, celebrated Sunday Mass amidst floodwaters at the inundated St. Theresa IDP camp in Namti on August 10, marking the first-ever “Mass on Water” for displaced parishioners enduring repeated environmental and humanitarian crises.

The Bishop, joined by Lawa Parish Priest Fr. Peter Lazum Naw Bawk and Fr. Jerome Nding La Raw, ministered to more than 300 displaced families sheltering in the camp.

Torrential rains have frequently flooded the settlement, creating severe hardship. “The floods have made it difficult for residents to live, eat, and drink. Many people are sick,” reported camp residents.

Standing in water during the Mass, Bishop John La Sam transformed the dire circumstances into a profound spiritual lesson.

“Now, we are in great difficulty. We need to say Mass on the water,” he declared. “Instead of sadness, let us feel God taking us on the river, leading us on a prayer journey.”

He drew parallels to the disciples with Jesus on the water and the Holy Family’s flight: “More than 2,000 years ago, the Lord Jesus was born and had to flee the soldiers. Today, as we flee conflict, He is among us, fleeing with us.”

Key elements of Bishop’s homily:

• Transforming Suffering: “Let us thank God for this experience… turn this Cross into a blessing.”
• Divine Presence in Hardship: “The more difficult it is, the higher God’s blessing becomes… Difficulties show the Lord Jesus is among us.”
• Call for Resilience: “Dear Mothers and Brothers, don’t be discouraged… The Lord Jesus is following you in this time of flight.”
• Prayer for Peace: He led prayers for national peace, wise leadership, and comfort for war victims.

The Lawa parish community has been displaced since heavy fighting erupted in their village on March 22, 2025.

They fled to several locations, with over 300 families ultimately sheltering at St. Theresa Camp in Namti Jumdwi Jak camp and another 100+ families at St. Joseph IDP Camp in PaLaNa, Myitkyina.

Their plight is compounded by the recurring floods, creating a layered humanitarian emergency.

The unprecedented “Mass on Water” served as both a stark testament to the IDPs’ suffering and a bold declaration of faith and resilience.

“We will leave a wonderful history for our children,” the Bishop affirmed, urging the community to see their trial as part of a sacred journey with God amidst the rising waters.

By RVA Kachin Jinghpaw Service