Society
Of The Divine Word

While the SVD House remained structurally sound, the confreres have joined the national relief effort, offering comfort and care to survivors as the country faces one of its worst natural disasters in recent memory.

“By God’s grace, we were spared from the severe impact on us and the SVD house,” said Fr. Deva SVD.

The 7.7-magnitude quake struck near the Bago Region and was felt across major cities including Yangon and Mandalay. Critical infrastructure collapsed in multiple rural areas, leaving thousands without shelter, water, or medical access.

While the missionaries were physically unharmed, they are deeply affected by the widespread grief and destruction surrounding them.

“The scale of loss is heartbreaking,” said Fr. Roger. “We are mourning alongside our brothers and sisters here. Their pain is our pain.”

International aid is beginning to flow into affected areas, but the need remains urgent. Ongoing aftershocks and remote access issues have delayed rescue and relief in some regions.

Relief agencies are calling for increased international solidarity as communities begin to bury their dead and rebuild.

The SVD community in Myanmar is contributing through pastoral care, coordination of humanitarian aid, and spiritual support to victims. Their work is rooted in the core missionary value of presence.

“We are doing what we can to provide comfort, prayer, and presence,” said Fr. Tuyen. “Even in small ways, we hope to bring hope.”

“We believe we were spared not to stand aside, but to stand with those who suffer,” added Fr. Deva. “That is our mission.”

The Divine Word Missionaries urge the global Church and international partners to continue supporting Myanmar through prayer, advocacy, and practical aid as the nation faces the long path of recovery and healing.

GMD