Myitkyina: In the middle of ongoing civil conflict, the Catholic Church in Myanmar has offered a sign of hope for young people by inaugurating a statue of St Carlo Acutis at the Cathedral of St Columbanus in Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State.
The statue of the young Italian saint, often known as the saint of the internet, is the first of its kind in Myanmar. According to the Vatican’s Fides news agency, it was unveiled on the tenth anniversary of the priesthood and the first anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Bishop John La Sam of the Diocese of Myitkyina.
Diocesan priest Fr John Aung Htoi said the statue was installed to inspire young people to live their faith with courage, even during times of hardship. He explained that St Carlo Acutis offers a powerful example of how to remain faithful to Christ while facing trials, especially in a country deeply affected by war and social instability.
Fr Htoi noted that many young people in Myanmar struggle with violence, crime, drug abuse, the breakdown of family life, and the uncontrolled use of social media. As the patron saint of the internet, St Carlo is seen as a guide for young people on how to use digital platforms responsibly while staying rooted in Christian values.
In this challenging environment, many young people turn to the Church for support and direction. Fr Htoi said dioceses across the country organise youth camps, faith formation sessions, and educational programmes to accompany young people and help them build their lives on strong spiritual foundations.
He warned that young people in Myanmar are at serious risk of becoming a lost generation. Many have been displaced by fighting, lost family members, or been left without protection. He stressed that young people need understanding, guidance, and trust, while also being encouraged to take responsibility for their future.
One effort to support vulnerable youth is the Don Bosco Youth Centre in the Archdiocese of Mandalay, founded in 2014. The centre cares for around 60 young people, many of whom are orphans or former street children. They receive shelter, food, education, healthcare, and opportunities in sports, music, and cultural activities, following the mission of the Salesian missionaries.
The challenges facing young people have intensified since the military coup in 2021, which ended a fragile democratic period. Many young people initially joined peaceful protests before later becoming involved in armed resistance. In recent years, the enforcement of a conscription law has forced tens of thousands of young people into military service, while many others have fled abroad or gone into hiding.
Young people between the ages of 15 and 35 make up about one third of Myanmar’s population. For them, the political crisis is not just a national issue but a personal reality that has shaped their hopes, freedoms, and future.
Against this backdrop, Church leaders believe the statue of St Carlo Acutis stands as a quiet but powerful reminder that faith, responsibility, and hope can still guide young people, even in the most difficult times.