WelCom April 2022
Eight Catholic churches have been hit by artillery shelling and airstrikes by Myanmar’s military in Loikaw Diocese since the conflict between military and rebel forces erupted in May 2021. Some 16 parishes out of 38 in Loikaw Diocese have been abandoned by priests, nuns and parishioners who have fled to safe areas following intensified fighting. Sources say Myanmar’s military junta has continued targeting churches and civilians in Christian strongholds like Kayah state.