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Christians in Myanmar continue to experience untold suffering because of persecution and conflict, with last year’s devastating earthquakes adding to the vulnerability of many believers.
It is now five years since the military coup that deepened Myanmar’s long-running civil war and had a catastrophic impact on the whole country. Many Christians have been caught in the crossfire, particularly in ethnic minority areas, with believers killed, churches bombed and villages destroyed. Thousands have been displaced, and an earthquake in March killed more than 3,600 people and forced even more from their homes.
The vulnerability of Christians in Myanmar goes back years, rooted in the belief that to be Burmese is to be Buddhist – and that means other faiths are often seen as foreign and a threat to national unity. It leads to everyday discrimination, such as difficulties getting Christianity recognised on ID cards, denial of access to basic services such as water, and forced participation in Buddhist rituals. There is even a state-supported plan to convert Christians and other religious minorities to Buddhism, particularly in remote areas. Churches, meanwhile, have difficulty registering with the authorities and evangelistic activities are strongly opposed.
Converts can face additional hostility from their families and communities, who may view their faith as a betrayal of their heritage.
Christians in Chin, Kachin, Shan, Kayah and Sagaing are particularly at risk amid worsening violence, displacement and targeted attacks. Young believers from poor backgrounds who have to attend Buddhist schools are also vulnerable.
The reason we remain resilient in the midst of persecution and hardship is because of the persecution-survival training we received.
Pastor Yang, who despite war, displacement and natural disasters, continues to bravely shepherd his scattered community in Myanmar.
The past year has seen conflict intensify across Myanmar, with Christians among those affected. Sagaing Region – which was hit by the earthquakes – saw Christian villages targeted by violence. And in the Christian-majority Chin State, attacks on churches persist. Overall, Christians have faced worsening violence, displacement and systematic targeting, with the earthquakes deepening the suffering of many. In one of numerous tragic incidents, ten armed men stormed a parish in Kangyitaw, forcing Father Donald Martin to kneel. He refused, declaring that he knelt only to God, and it cost him his life.
Open Doors partners strengthen persecuted believers in Myanmar through literature distribution, persecution-survival training, presence ministry and livelihood support.
Lord Jesus, come to the rescue of Your children in Myanmar, who have suffered so much. We pray for strong and just governance, a stable economy, and peace between warring groups. Shield our family from harm, enrobe the hurting with Your unfailing comfort, and bring timely encouragement to those who need it today. Provide for every physical, emotional and spiritual need, and make a way for the displaced to return to their homes. Amen.
