Source: www.csw.org.uk
Date: October 24, 2026
Our prayers today are for the people of Myanmar/Burma, who have been under oppressive military rule since February 2021.
The junta and its proxy forces continue to attack and misuse places of worship, undermining freedom of religion or belief in ethnic minority areas.
Across Chin, Kachin and Karen States, hundreds of churches and Christian institutions have been subjected to airstrikes, arson and artillery shelling. Others have been forcibly converted into military bases, command posts or venues for junta propaganda.
This month has already seen attacks on a Presbyterian church, a Baptist church, and a Buddhist monastery, all within days of each other.
On 9 October, fighter jets dropped bombs in Mindat, Chin State. The town’s Presbyterian church compound was struck directly, causing catastrophic damage. Mercifully, no civilian casualties were reported.
Just three days later, soldiers burned down Htingnan Kachin Baptist Church in Banmaw, Kachin State, along with surrounding civilian homes.
Churches in these areas are not only places of worship. They are also vital community sanctuaries – serving as schools, shelters for displaced people, and centres for humanitarian assistance.
Christians are not alone in facing these violations.
‘Since the 2021 coup, the military regime has destroyed more than 300 Buddhist monasteries and religious compounds across Myanmar,’ said Venerable Min Thunya, a pro-democracy Buddhist leader.
On 11 October, a fighter jet dropped three bombs on the Mahasi Meditation Centre in Sagaing Region. Monks and nuns, elderly people observing Uposatha (Buddhist Sabbath), and displaced people were sheltering in the monastery at the time. At least two civilians were killed and more than 25 people injured, ranging in age from two to over 80.
As we mark International Freedom of Religion or Belief Day this week (27 October), let’s stand with people of all religions or beliefs across Myanmar who are suffering under military rule.
Please pray:
- For everyone affected by the recent attacks, especially those who have been injured, displaced, or lost loved ones.
- For the protection of churches, monasteries and other places of worship across Myanmar. May they be places of safety, peace and refuge – free from fear and danger.
- For an end to the military’s violence and repression, and for meaningful international action that brings accountability for violations and helps create the conditions for lasting peace and freedom.