Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Rangoon (Agenzia Fides) - At this difficult time for the nation the small Catholic community in Myanmar turns with trust to God, praying for peace, reconciliation and the safety of the people: this was said in a message issued by the Catholic Bishops of Myanmar as serious popular protest spreads across the country.
Regarding the Stand of the Catholic Church in the face of the present situation the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Myanmar issued the following statement: “ The Church in Myanmar has been doing Chain prayers, fasting and perpetual adoration turn by turn in all the parishes of all the Archdioceses and Dioceses for peace and development in the country since 1st February 2006 up to now”. Over the past few days this prayer has become more intense encouraged by the Bishops: “all Catholics are requested to make unceasing prayers and to offer special Masses for the welfare of the country ” the statement affirms.
“In accordance with the Canon Law and Social Teachings of the Catholic Church, priests and religious are not involved in any party-politics and in the current protests”, the Bishops underline, recalling how ever that the laity "as citizens of the country, are free to act as they deem fit. The clergy and religious can give proper guidance to the lay faithful".
The statement is signed by Archbishop Charles Bo of Yangon and Archbishop Paul Zinghtung Grawng of Mandalay respectively secretary general and president of the Catholic Bishop' Conference of Myanmar.
Myanmar has a population of about 50 million: 72% Buddhism, 12.6% traditional beliefs, 8% Christianity, (including 623.000 Catholics in thirteen dioceses) and 2.4% Islam. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 27/9/2007 righe 24 parole 248)
