On the evening of 12 November, The Most Revd Stephen Than Myint Oo, Archbishop of Myanmar and Bishop of Yangon, joined The Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen, Bishop of Winchester, for an ‘In Conversation’ dinner organised by USPG.
Guests were invited to reflect on the theme of ‘Resilient Faith in Myanmar’, hearing first-hand about the life and witness of the Church in Myanmar amid many challenges, including ongoing political instability, conflict, and natural disasters.
During the evening, Archbishop Stephen shared moving insights into the history and ministry of the Church of the Province of Myanmar, founded in 1877 through the partnership of USPG, the Diocese of Winchester, and the Mission to Seafarers. Today, the Church continues to serve the people of Myanmar with courage and faith across nine dioceses.
Archbishop Stephen spoke of the Church’s rich and enduring relationship with USPG, which has supported mission schools, clergy pensions, theological education, community health and humanitarian work for nearly 150 years.
“Even though we are a very small church, we are very vibrant,” said Archbishop Stephen. “In the darkness, in the thick cloud, USPG is our silver lining.”
Myanmar has been under military control since the 2021 coup. Adding to this, in March 2025, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck the country, devastating community structures and communities in the Dioceses of Mandalay and Taungoo. More than 3,000 people were killed, thousands injured and many displaced. Supported by USPG’s Rapid Response Fund, the Church of the Province of Myanmar led relief and recovery efforts rebuilding churches, restoring homes, and caring for affected families.
Despite it all, Archbishop Stephen is resolute that help comes from the Lord:
“God is with us amidst our suffering. He is ready to help us.”
The evening offered an inspiring reminder of faith, partnership in action and a call to prayer for peace and reconciliation in Myanmar.
A moment of prayer with The Rt Revd David Hamid (former Suffragan Bishop in Europe), The Rt Revd Philip Mounstephen (Winchester), and The Rt Revd David Walker (Manchester).
As part of the visit, Archbishop Stephen also attended a round table meeting at the Anglican Communion Office on Friday 14 November where he met with the Secretary General, Bishop Anthony Poggo and staff. It was a rich time of fellowship and solidarity. USPG were represented by Nadia Sanchez, Regional Programme Coordinator, and Davidson Solanki, Senior Regional Manager for Asia and the Middle East.
Let us pray:
Gracious God,
We give thanks for the resilience and vibrant faith of the people of Myanmar who continue to rebuild after the earthquake and amid ongoing conflict. May they know your comfort and strength as communities are restored.
We pray for church leaders and communities supporting the reconstruction of homes, schools, and places of worship. Grant them wisdom and perseverance as they rebuild lives and renew hope.
We thank you for all who have offered help – church workers, volunteers, and faithful supporters – signs of your love in times of darkness.
We pray for peace, your shalom to prevail in the nation of Myanmar.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen
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The Church of the Province of Myanmar (CPM), a longstanding partner of USPG, has shared an update on the extraordinary response to the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck central Myanmar on 28 March. In the face of unimaginable loss—with more than 3,000 people killed and 4,500 injured—CPM has demonstrated Christ’s love, courageous leadership and compassion. Together, we continue to support vital relief efforts in the most affected areas, particularly within the Diocese of Mandalay and the Diocese of Taungoo.
Please keep Archdeacon Joseph Yin Oo who is leading local efforts, as well as the communities affected, in your prayers.
CPM share that the earthquake response is entering its final short-term phase. To this end, some churches have already begun reconstruction using their own resources, while in other areas, preparations are ongoing as communities await official authorisation to proceed.
The photos above include St. Mary’s Church at various stages of restoration, the completed renovation of the Community Hall and Chapel, and the fully repaired All Saints’ Church in Myit Nge.
Despite the challenges, church leaders are actively organising materials in advance, as there are concerns about rising prices day by day. CPM are continuing to raise funds, particularly to support more churches that have been damaged — beyond the assistance already given to affected households.
A closing message from Stella, Director of Provincial Department:
Thank you once again for your continued prayers and support. We deeply appreciate your generous donations to CPM.
Let us pray for Myanmar:
Gracious God,
Thank you that you are a faithful God. Please continue to comfort those suffering from the aftermath of the earthquake – the mourning and the injured. Bless the rebuilding of churches and communities. Grant swift permission for reconstruction and strengthen all providing help. Please provide support for those in need and continue to bless all those in the Church of the Province of Myanmar.
Amen.
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15
On 28 March 2025, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake struck six regions across Myanmar. The devastating tremor has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction. In response to this tragic event, the Church of the Province of Myanmar (CPM), in partnership with USPG, is making an official and urgent appeal for your support. The Most Revd Stephen Than Myint Oo, Archbishop of Myanmar and Bishop of Yangon urges:
Myanmar has multiple sufferings and I and the leadership of CPM have multiple pressures. Thank God for it. But please continue to pray for us.
Across the country, over 3000 lives have been lost and many people are in urgent need of aid. These numbers continue to rise. Many survivors remain trapped under the rubble with the risk to life increasing as time passes by. People who have escaped immediate harm are struggling to find basic necessities for survival.
Recent reports also indicate the destruction of 36 Anglican churches, including Christ Church cathedral in Mandalay. The response from the Church of the Province of Myanmar is centred around the Diocese of Mandalay and the Diocese of Taungoo, two regions where the damage is very severe. The magnitude of this crisis is overwhelming, and the Church of the Province of Myanmar and its dioceses cannot meet these urgent needs alone.
The Most Revd Stephen Than Myint Oo, Archbishop of Myanmar and Bishop of Yangon added:
Myanmar, including the CPM, is enduring immense hardships due to multiple challenges. However, as the saying goes, “Every cloud has a silver lining.” In this spirit, we humbly and earnestly appeal to you for your support in aiding CPM’s relief and rehabilitation efforts for the victims of this devastating earthquake. Your contribution can serve as a beacon of hope and compassion for those in desperate need.
In 2001, the military led a coup that resulted into civil war – leaving over 3 million people internally displaced. The earthquake is therefore another significant hit to people who are already struggling to survive. During a recent solidarity visit to Myanmar, The Revd Canon Dr Duncan Dormor was deeply moved by the strength and faith of the local Church.
Our time with the House of Bishops was very special. Each bishop described the reality on the ground and shared how our sisters and brothers have repeatedly demonstrated immense courage and humility in the face of many ongoing challenges. USPG is committed to standing together in solidarity, prayer and support with the Church of the Province of Myanmar.
USPG is supporting a church-led response based on updates from our partner, the Church of the Province of Myanmar. We invite you to join in prayer and to donate to our Rapid Response Fund.
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Click herePlease join us in prayer:
O Lord, who stilled the waves and quieted the winds, who is the sure foundation of our church, and who is the small voice of calm that spoke through the earthquake, wind, and fire, have mercy on us.
When the very earth beneath our feet gives way, and swallows up countless, have mercy on us.
When the buildings around us collapse in a flash, and rubble is all that is left of our homes, have mercy on us.
When those we love and hold dear in life are snatched away in an instance, when uncertainty and fear are all that is in our hearts, and when all around is tragedy, have mercy on us.
For you alone are our Father of mercies and the God of all consolation. Comfort, o Lord, the families who now are gripped by terror in Myanmar and Thailand. Spare the innocent, and give strength to those who are still clinging on to life, awaiting rescue. Give hope to the responders and rescuers, that with every fibre of their arms they might give hope to those who are trapped. Send your Holy Spirit to all the people of Myanmar and Thailand, that they may come together in this time of trial, putting down past divisions, and do what ought to be done with one common purpose.
As the earth stops quaking, let our hearts yet be still and firm. Into your healing hands we entrust our path ahead. This we pray in the name of Christ, who is our comforter, our restorer, and our sustainer.
Amen.
By The Most Revd Andrew Chan, Archbishop of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui & Bishop of Western Kowloon