MINDAT (AGENZIA FIDES): The Myanmar army has bombed the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Mindat, Chin state, in the northwest of the country. This church had just been named the new cathedral for the Diocese of Mindat, which was created on January 25 by Pope Francis.

Local sources say that in recent months, Mindat has seen fighting between the Chinland Defence Force (CDF) and the Myanmar army. The CDF, which formed to fight the military government, took control of the area and declared it “liberated” in January. They have teamed up with other armed groups fighting for more autonomy.

The bombing of the church happened on February 6, but the news has only just come out. Several bombs hit the church, damaging its roof and stained glass windows, making it unusable. Thankfully, no one was injured because the priests and congregation had already left due to the fighting. Local priests had been checking the church recently to plan upcoming events, including the consecration of Father Augustine Thang Zawm Hung, the new bishop.

The attack has left the community upset, but they are determined to rebuild the church. Father Paulinus, a local priest, said, “We are very sad that our church has been hit by the bombs. It is a wound in our heart. But we will not let ourselves be defeated. We will rebuild it.” He added, “We are certain that the Lord will ‘bombard’ us with his grace and blessing: this will bring peace and prosperity to our people.”

The diocese of Mindat serves around 15,000 Catholics in a region with about 360,000 people. Despite the challenges, the community is hopeful. On February 9, a special pilgrimage to the Marian shrine of Nyaungbelin took place in Yangon, with over 3,000 people praying for peace in Myanmar and around the world.

In October 2024, the military in Myanmar damaged a church in the hometown of the country’s most well-known Christian, Cardinal Charles Maung Bo. This was one of several religious buildings destroyed during clashes between the military and pro-democracy groups.