Cardinal Charles Bo, president of the Myanmar Bishops’ Conference, has issued an urgent appeal for peace and aid following the recent earthquake that struck Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and China. The 7.7 magnitude earthquake has left over 1,600 dead and more than 2,300 injured in Myanmar alone.
The cardinal emphasized that the people of Myanmar “need everything,” including food, shelter, medicine, and peace to end the ongoing civil war. He expressed concern that the distribution of aid could be hindered by armed groups and unrest.
Cardinal Bo reported that the Catholic Church, through Caritas, is already providing assistance to those affected, particularly in the hardest-hit area of Mandalay. He also shared his personal experience of being in his car during the earthquake and witnessing the devastating scenes of destruction and chaos.
The cardinal’s appeal comes as Pope Francis has expressed his closeness to the people of Myanmar through a telegram, despite his recent illness. Cardinal Bo described the Pope’s words as “a balm of comfort” and expressed gratitude for his support during the country’s difficult times.