‘Your generosity is a powerful sign of hope’ says Archbishop marking earthquake that killed thousands
A YEAR after a devastating earthquake hit Burma (Myanmar), a bishop has thanked a Catholic charity for its vital help.
More than 5,300 people were killed and thousands more injured when tremors measuring a magnitude of 7.7 struck Mandalay on 28th March 2025.
Describing the suffering endured by his people, Archbishop Marco Tin Win of Mandalay expressed gratitude to Catholic charity Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) for the help received.
The archbishop said that the earthquake left “collapsed homes, destroyed villages, and many families who lost loved ones and everything they possessed,” and that “many continue the difficult journey of rebuilding their lives”.
He added: “In recent years, the people of Myanmar have endured a series of crises – the COVID-19 pandemic, political upheaval, conflict and displacement, the collapse of the economy, and repeated natural disasters.
“These hardships could have broken the hope of many institutions. Yet, by God's grace, the unity of the faithful and the generosity of priests, religious and catechists have sustained our Church.”
Thanking ACN benefactors he said: “In the midst of this suffering, your generosity has been a powerful sign of hope.
“Through your support, food, medicine, shelter, and comfort reached many who were injured and displaced.
“More than material help, your kindness reminded our people that they were not forgotten.”
Archbishop Tin Win said despite progress in reconstruction, the situation remains fragile for many communities due to ongoing armed conflict and the lack of basic services.
Noting other conflicts around the world, he invited people to join a day of prayer, penance and fasting tomorrow (Wednesday, 26th March), called for by the Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar, for peace “especially in the Middle East and in Myanmar.”
The archbishop added: “As we approach Palm Sunday, we remember how Jesus entered Jerusalem with hope, even as his path led to the cross. Our people know this journey well – from suffering toward hope.
“Indeed, we are a Good Friday people, moving through the silence and uncertainty of Holy Saturday, yet trusting that the dawn of Easter will come… The cross is not the end – it leads to the resurrection.”
In communion with the universal Church the archbishop trusts that Myanmar “will one day witness the dawn of peace, reconciliation, and renewal”.
Archbishop Tin Win concluded: “Through your compassion, you help us remain wounded healers and pilgrims of hope among our people.
“On behalf of the Archdiocese of Mandalay, of the Church and the people of Myanmar, I sincerely thank you and assure you of our prayers.”
