After two earthquakes hit Myanmar late March, Open Doors’ local partners immediately leapt into action. Because of our long-term partnerships in the country, Christians have been able to find urgent help right away.
In recent weeks, Open Doors’ local partners and volunteers visited affected regions to provide aid, but mostly to sit, pray, cry, and hope with Christians in Myanmar.
They met with many families affected by the earthquakes and report that the air is still filled with the stench of decaying bodies buried beneath the rubble. Breathing alone is a constant reminder of the terrible disasters.
Some local partners and volunteers wept at the devastation and the conditions people lived in. But they knew their presence, and their prayers, could help bring hope and healing to many.
Testimonies of God’s Goodness
Pastor Nay*, a local pastor, shares that it’s only by God’s grace he and his household are alive. It’s a miracle that has given his church community the chance to live out the Great Commission.
“If the Lord’s hand had not held onto the foundation and the poles of our house, it would have been destroyed and we all would have been dead,” Pastor Nay says. “Whatever aid we are receiving from local churches, we are sharing with people from other faiths, too. We praise God that He gave us the opportunity to serve them.”
Another pastor shared that around 40 children were rehearsing for a program the day of the earthquake. “Usually, they stay longer after rehearsal but that day they left early,” he says. “The earthquake struck shortly after that and the roof of the church caved in. God has spared the lives of the children. This reminds us that God is sovereign over our lives.”
Unity At Work
Open Doors’ local partners have been inspired by how Christians in Myanmar are caring for each other, even as a civil war makes daily life uncertain.
Despite logistical difficulties and the danger of more earthquakes, local partners have been able to reach out to affected Christians, standing alongside them with relief and the ministry of simple presence.
“No one came to see us, even my relatives who are in another region didn’t come,” says one local believer about the visits. “It means a lot to us, and we have received much courage through your visits.”
*Names changed for security purposes.
Pray for Myanmar
- For all those still reeling in the aftermath of the earthquake.
- For relief to quickly reach those in need and without any discrimination.
- For unity among people and the quick restoration of their lives.
Stay updated with the latest prayer requests from the persecuted church.
