Myanmar Cardinal Condemns Killing of Priest, Calls for End to Violence

Yangon, Myanmar, February 18, 2025— Cardinal Charles Maung Bo of Yangon has condemned the brutal killing of Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, a priest from the Archdiocese of Mandalay, who was murdered by militants on the evening of February 14, 2025. The attack occurred amid the ongoing conflict between Myanmar’s military and resistance forces. Cardinal Bo, who also serves as the President of Myanmar’s Bishops’ Conference, offered prayers for the slain priest and urged authorities to take decisive action to prevent further violence.

The Catholic Church in Myanmar, along with Mandalay’s Archbishop Marco Tin Win, priests, religious, and faithful, is mourning the loss of Father Donald.

In his message of condolence, Cardinal Bo prayed for healing and comfort, stating, “May God the Father, the Lord of all life, comfort your mourning hearts and ours.” He also emphasised that the sacrifices of innocent victims, including Father Donald, should serve as a call to end the bloodshed in Myanmar.

The killing of Father Donald comes just days after Myanmar’s military junta bombed the Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Mindat, Chin State, on February 6. The aerial assault on the church rendered it unusable, though no casualties were reported.

Cardinal Bo appealed for an immediate end to violence and demanded justice for Father Donald’s murder. “We urge those responsible to take appropriate action and ensure justice is served so that such incidents do not occur again in the future,” he said.

The Apostolic Nunciature in Myanmar also denounced the killing of Fr. Donald. Msgr. Andrea Ferrante, Chargé d’Affaires of the Nunciature, expressed “profound sadness” over the killing and condemned “every attack on life and human dignity.” He also encouraged priests, religious leaders, and missionaries to remain steadfast in their faith, saying, “Rooted in His love, may each one be a sign of the merciful presence of the Father who welcomes His children and heals their wounds.”

Cardinal Bo concluded his statement with a final prayer: “May the soul of Father Donald Martin Ye Naing Win, through the mercy of God, rest in eternal peace.”

By Anbu Selvam

Courtesy: Radio Veritas Asia