The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar (CBCM) has announced that the nation’s bishops will soon travel to Rome for the traditional Visita ad Limina Apostolorum, a pilgrimage aimed at strengthening the bond between the Church in Myanmar and the universal Catholic Church.

In a statement released on May 27, 2026, the bishops described the journey as holding “immense symbolic and spiritual significance,” particularly as the country continues to face profound trials and uncertainty.

The Ad Limina visit, which derives its name from the Latin phrase meaning “to the thresholds of the Apostles,” will see the bishops pray at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul in Rome. They will also pay their respects to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, conveying the deep communion and solidarity of Myanmar’s Catholic community with the Holy See.

“During this pilgrimage of faith and unity, our Bishops will also visit the various Dicasteries of the Holy See,” the CBCM statement read. “We will carry with us the prayers, hopes, hardships, and steadfast faith of the people of Myanmar. Furthermore, we will present to the Holy Father the love, filial devotion, and prayers of all our faithful.”

“Amidst the current difficulties we face in Myanmar today, we are deeply comforted and encouraged by the solidarity of the universal Church,” the statement said. “Knowing that the Holy Father and Catholics around the world are praying for peace, reconciliation, and justice within our country brings us great strength.”

The Ad Limina visit is an ancient obligation for bishops worldwide, typically required every five years.

The CBCM issued a heartfelt appeal to priests, religious sisters, catechists, youth, and all the faithful across the country to offer special prayers for the sacred journey.

“Let us pray that this visit will strengthen the faith of our local dioceses and deepen our communion with the Holy Father and the global Catholic Church,” the bishops wrote.

The message concluded with a blessing invoking Mary, Mother of Hope, and the Holy Spirit. “May the Holy Spirit guide us all in peace, fortitude, and faithful witness to the Gospel. Amen.”

By RVA Myanmar Service