Myanmar: Even as Myanmar endures the heavy toll of conflict and humanitarian crises, the Catholic faithful gathered with steadfast spirit to celebrate the Jubilee of Ecclesiastical Movements on Pentecost Sunday. This moment of grace came as a call to deepen their commitment to Gospel values—especially the call to “love your neighbour and love your enemies.”

Despite the continued unrest and devastating natural calamities, families and young people came together from across the country, participating in the nationwide spiritual celebration. Organized under the banner of unity and faith, the event included members of both local and international Church movements, as reported by the Vatican’s Fides agency.

At St. Mary’s Cathedral in Yangon, a large gathering of Catholics celebrated Pentecost not just as a liturgical feast, but as a sign of hope in troubled times. The celebration underscored their shared experience of Christ’s presence, which gives courage to confront suffering and resist the evil unleashed by war and violence.

Winny, a member of the Focolare Movement, reminded those present that the call to love begins at home. In the face of sorrow and fear that seem beyond understanding, she urged believers to keep their eyes on Christ crucified—a symbol of divine solidarity with human suffering.

Msgr. Andrea Ferrante, Chargé d’Affaires at the Apostolic Nunciature in Myanmar, extended words of encouragement and prayer. He urged the faithful to remember the late Pope Francis, known for his deep concern and prayers for Myanmar. “The Holy Spirit is the giver of life. He renews our hearts with love, peace, and liberty,” Msgr. Ferrante affirmed, while also calling for acts of charity toward those who could not join the Jubilee due to insecurity or the recent earthquake.

Since the February 2021 military coup overturned Myanmar’s fledgling democratic progress, the country has been gripped by ongoing violence and a growing human rights crisis. According to the latest data from the UN Human Rights Office, as of 31 March 2025, at least 6,473 civilians have been killed—including nearly 1,500 women and more than 700 children.

The continuing hostilities have displaced over 3.5 million people, with nearly 20 million citizens requiring humanitarian assistance. Even during natural disasters, such as the recent earthquake, relief efforts remain obstructed by restrictions and instability.

For Myanmar’s Catholics, the Jubilee celebration was more than a religious event—it was a testimony of enduring faith and unity in the face of adversity. Their witness reflects a Church that remains resilient, encouraging acts of solidarity, charity, and above all, a return to Gospel values that call for compassion, peace, and reconciliation in a nation yearning for healing.