Update from Myanmar

Rev Malsawmthanga (President of the Methodist Church, Upper Myanmar)

Myanmar Theological College

“Many of our members are in trouble,” writes Rev Malsawmthanga, President of the Methodist Church, Upper Myanmar (MCUM). “Because of conflict, some districts are facing great difficulties not only in pastoral ministry, but also in conducting worship services.”

It’s been more than three years since the military seized power in Myanmar. Since then, more than 5,000 civilians have been killed and more than 3 million have been forced to flee their homes.  Military forces are deliberately targeting churches, either with violence or by placing restrictions aimed at stopping Christians from gathering. Rev Malsawmthanga gives an example of church members in Haizawl, who “were not allowed to enter their village and are still in the forest. Their church building and pastor's quarter were burnt down.”

 Despite the danger, MCUM remains committed to mission and ministry.  

“Some districts are facing great difficulties not only in pastoral ministry, but also in conducting worship services,” Rev Malsawmthanga  writes, “[but] in the midst of hardship and violence Ministers and Lay Pastors are doing effectively in their ministries of encouraging and comforting their members, helping them spiritually and physically, to overcome their difficulties with trusting in God’s unchanged love, and with thanks giving to God.”

Districts across the country continue with outreach work, including leprosy care and social relief. Sharing the Good News through “evangelical mission” remains a priority, alongside helping refugees displaced by the conflict, and offering financial support to church members in need. Myanmar Theological College continues to offer training to more than 100 students, from a variety of denominations.  

Government restrictions have also made it difficult to get money into Myanmar, although the World Mission Fund (managed by the Methodist Church in Great Britain, and supported by Irish Methodists) hopes that a safe route will soon be available for sending funds to support our Burmese church family.

“God will lead the Methodist Church, Upper Myanmar,” insists Rev Malsawmthanga, “[We will] continue to participate in God’s ministry.”

World Mission Partnership have previously provided MCUM with financial support. We hope to do so again, as new funding routes become available. Until then, Irish Methodists can support our brothers and sisters by continuing to pray for Myanmar.

 Please pray:

 
1. For all church members, that they will be safe and allowed to meet freely.

2. For the Haizawl church and members, that they can safely return to their homes.

3. For the students and staff of Myanmar Theological College.

4. For peace and stability across Myanmar.

WMP partners with Church in Chains to support persecuted Christians around the world. You can find additional prayer points for Christians in Myanmar in our November email newsletter (click here to sign up), and on the Church in Chains website.