Anisakan, Myanmar, 18 September 2024 -- As you must already know, the political situation here in the Northern Shan State of Eastern Myanmar is very unstable and also unpredictable. It has already been 2 months since roads were blocked, some bridges blown up, and electricity cut off; to make things worse there is a news blackout: neither internet nor easy phone communication! With the blockage of roads and exorbitant bus fares and the scarcity of petrol/diesel, the price of things has soared to an unheard-of level. We have spent at least 12 lakhs (Ks. 1,200,000.00/-) within a month for petrol alone since we have to run the generator every day for at least 2 hours for pumping up water, recharging the gadgets and for our important Practices of Piety and classes. This amount is incredibly expansive. The same situation holds for our Boarding Complex where we cater also to the needs of the refugees. So far, thanks to Providence and the Province, we and our charges are still surviving in different places.
With the loud bomb blasts, gun-shots and lawless behavior in and around the town, in addition to the rumors of attacks by the different armed groups and actual robberies and thefts, it is difficult for the Prenovitiate Formation House to function regularly in this unhealthy climate. It seems almost sure that the situation would hold on for a year.
Our House Council thought about the current situation seriously and made an appeal to the Provincial to reconsider an appropriate and safe place for the Prenovitiate Community in these uncertain times. We are ready to abide by the decision of the Provincial Council and willing to stay anywhere if the formation of the candidates can be carried on well.
Our Salesian priests and the pre-novices stationed in Thibaw tried to remain steadfast in their House, but of late, with the exception of two young priests to look after the Church and Parish, the rest had to stay away in a nearby town for two weeks along with some refugees and then finally had to flee to the Provincial House, Anisakan village, in Mandalay Division. The Provincial and the confreres here have extended their hospitality to them, but for how long they could remain safe here is a big question mark, because the armed groups have pledged to take the City of Mandalay where there is the North-Western Command of the Army.
We are all praying for a speedy cessation of hostilities in our dear beautiful Country of Myanmar and for a stable peace that is built on justice and fraternity. Please remember to pray with us too.
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