Earthquake hits Don Bosco Mandalay in Myanmar

A Call for Solidarity and Prayer

A devastating earthquake, measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, struck Myanmar, with its epicentre located in the Sagaing Division, which borders the Mandalay Division where Anisakan is situated. The tremor caused significant destruction and left communities reeling in shock.

The earthquake brought widespread devastation, especially in Mandalay City, where numerous high-rise buildings, pagodas, mosques, and churches were reduced to rubble. The iconic Sagaing Bridge, spanning the famous Irrawaddy River, also suffered severe damage, with parts of the structure collapsing into the river—a heartbreaking sight for locals.

Impact on the Salesian Community

The Salesian community in Mandalay was severely affected by the earthquake. The St John Paul II Chapel suffered extensive damage, with its façade and parts of the walls collapsing. Tragically, two faithful who were present for Adoration were injured. The building housing street children also sustained significant damage, including to its ceiling and sections of the walls.

In the confreres’ quarters, plaster fell from the walls of several rooms, and the corridor leading to the dining room was damaged. Thankfully, no confreres were injured. However, two of the faithful and one street boy sustained minor injuries.

In Anisakan, which houses many religious buildings of the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), the earthquake caused widespread structural damage. The St Joseph Chapel in the Provincial house Community suffered cracks at the back of the altar, and the statue of St. Joseph was broken at its pedestal—a symbolic reminder of the disaster’s impact on the spiritual and physical fabric of the community.

A Symbolic Gesture of Global Solidarity

In a symbolic and heartfelt gesture, Rector Major Fr Fabio Attard addressed the earthquake during this morning’s Chapter Assembly in Turin. He exhorted the assembly to pray in a special way for the people affected by the earthquake in Myanmar, and invited the provincial of Myanmar, Fr Bosco Zeya Aung to brief about the situation. Fr Attard also assured him that the Salesian world would immediately help out to contribute to the immediate relief efforts for those affected. His words were a powerful reminder of the global Salesian family’s commitment to solidarity and action during moments of crisis.

A Plea for Prayers and Support

This natural disaster strikes Myanmar at a time of great political instability, making humanitarian aid, transportation, and communication extremely challenging. The Salesian communities, along with the local population, are struggling to respond to the urgent needs of those affected.

“We humbly request your prayers for our people during this time of calamity,” said Fr Edward Sein Myint, the Superior of the Community. “The road to recovery will require not only material assistance but also spiritual solidarity as we support one another in rebuilding our lives and faith.”

Salesian Spirit in Action

In the true spirit of the Salesian mission, the communities in Myanmar remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the most vulnerable. Despite the challenges posed by the earthquake and the ongoing political crisis, their dedication reflects the charism of Don Bosco: bringing hope and healing to those in need, even amidst adversity.

As the communities begin to assess the full extent of the damage, the prayers, solidarity, and support of the global Salesian family will be crucial in helping Myanmar recover from this tragedy.

By Fr Edward Sein Myint SDB
Anisakan, Myanmar (MYM)

Reaching Out to Earthquake Victims in Myanmar: A Gesture of Compassion

In the wake of the devastating earthquake that struck parts of Myanmar, the community of Don Bosco-Myanmar extended a helping hand to the suffering victims in Mandalay. With hearts full of compassion, the team spent quality time with the displaced families, offering drinks, snacks, and much-needed support. Since the earthquake started, the Salesians went to the affected areas and distributed food and water to the people affected.

While attempting to cross the Sagaing Bridge over the River Irrawaddy, the team was unable to proceed further due to restrictions. However, this did not deter their mission to serve. By mingling with the affected people, they discovered that while many groups were providing rice boxes for daily meals, there was a severe shortage of essential items such as mosquito nets, tarpaulins, umbrellas, mats, bed sheets, and pillows. The scorching heat further added to the challenges faced by the victims.

To bring relief, the Don Bosco team took a unique approach. They bought ice creams for the children, bringing smiles to their faces amidst the suffering. Additionally, they provided electric power by running a generator, enabling the victims to charge their phones and lamps for the night. This act of kindness stood out, as most other relief groups left shortly after distributing their aid.

The simple yet thoughtful gesture had a profound impact. One of the victims expressed heartfelt gratitude, saying, “It is the first time that we received free power to recharge our phones and connect with our families.”

The Don Bosco team felt deeply fulfilled, witnessing the joy and relief they brought to the victims. Their presence not only eased some of the material hardships but also provided emotional comfort and hope during a time of great difficulty.

In their commitment to Don Bosco’s mission of serving those in need, the team reaffirmed the importance of compassion and solidarity, transcending boundaries of faith or culture.