Catholics in Myanmar gathered in prayer for Pope Francis, reciprocating the concern and compassion the pontiff has often extended to their conflict-stricken nation.
“He takes care of those despondent and weak. So he always remembers and prays for Myanmar,” said Bishop Francis Than Htun, the rector of St. Mary’s Cathedral and auxiliary bishop of Yangon Archdiocese.
According to an Agence France-Presse report, the prelate expressed deep sorrow over the Pope’s illness, likening him to a father figure.
“I feel saddened like he is my own father since he has been sick,” he said before leading a Rosary prayer for the Pope, which was attended by dozens on Sunday evening.
The Vatican announced that the 88-year-old Pope was “resting” on Monday after spending a “quiet night” in the hospital.
The pontiff has faced persistent respiratory issues over the past three weeks, raising concerns about his recovery and speculation over whether his health might compel him to step down from his role leading the world’s nearly 1.4 billion Catholics.
Although he was unable to lead the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday, Pope Francis issued a written message renewing his appeals for peace in conflict zones worldwide, including Myanmar.
“Together let us continue to invoke the gift of peace, in particular in tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” the message read.
For Myanmar’s Catholic community, the Pope’s health holds deep significance. “He always speaks out for peace,” said 67-year-old worshipper Simon Hla Win. “I wish him a speedy recovery.”
Myanmar has been gripped by civil conflict since the military seized power in a coup in 2021.
Fighting between the junta, ethnic minority armed groups, and pro-democracy forces has led to the deaths of more than 6,000 civilians, according to the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners, and displaced over 3.5 million people, according to the United Nations.
Despite being a predominantly Buddhist country, Myanmar is home to significant Christian and Muslim minorities. The Catholic community, numbering around 700,000, makes up just over one percent of the nation’s 51 million people.
Pope Francis made history in 2017 as the first pontiff to visit Myanmar. During his visit, he met both military leaders and Aung San Suu Kyi, the then-civilian leader whose government was later overthrown in the coup.
“He has traveled everywhere to be in harmony with everyone,” said Simon Hla Win. “May the holy Pope get well as soon as possible because of the prayers sent by all.”
