“Please continue to pray for peace in Myanmar.” The bishop of Hakha (in Chin State), Lucius Hre Kung, entrusted this brief yet powerful appeal to SIR. We contacted him following the airstrikes launched by the regular army on 8 April that destroyed the Catholic Church of Christ the King in the town of Falam, in the diocese of Hakha. The bishop was trying to assess the damage to the building. However, due to prevailing security concerns, he said, “no one is allowed to enter the town at the moment. Consequently, a comprehensive evaluation of the damage to the church is not possible. It is certain, however, that the church has sustained significant damage.”
Was anyone injured in the attack?
I can safely say that no one was hurt. Local residents fled the town five months ago.
How and where will the Catholic community celebrate Holy Week and Easter now that the main church has been destroyed?
The city of Falam is home to over 200 Catholic families. Due to the terrible political armed strife ongoing in Falam, both Catholic and non-Catholic citizens have sought refuge in neighbouring villages and towns to ensure their personal safety. Consequently, the local Catholic community will now celebrate Holy Week and Easter in the villages and towns where they have sought refuge.
Why would they attack a church, a sacred place of worship?
It is very sad. Unfortunately, Christ the King Church is very close to a military encampment. This means there is a risk that local rebel fighters could use the church as a headquarters to launch attacks. The military responded with airstrikes against the church, resulting in its destruction.
Civil war, widespread poverty, forced displacement and now the earthquake. How will you celebrate Easter this year?
This is indeed a time of tribulation for us, surrounded by so many problems, needs and tears. But we will offer our sufferings to Christ, who was crucified, died and rose again for us. He is our only comfort and hope. The darkest nightmare of sorrow will be followed by the light and joy of the Resurrection.
