Burma has been in the news again recently, with the election taking place in early November. How can we best maintain links and help the people of that country? Christians form only 4% of the total population, but they see their role as linking the spiritual with the secular, by reaching out to non-Christians as well in the areas of health, education and agriculture (to name but some). In the words of their Archbishop, “The church of Myanmar is doing mission holistically and with unconditional love – trying to be the church for others, instead of self-seeking”.
The channel through which we as a parish sent funds to Burma has up to now been through The Church of Myanmar (Burma) Association. This organisation was however wound up this summer. It was originally a support group for returning missionaries, but there have not been any of these in Burma since 1966 – so the reason for setting up the Association has now gone.
It is suggested that people who want to help their fellow Christians in Burma now send their support via USPG: Anglicans in World Mission, which has been working in partnership with the church ithere since 1853. In 2009 USPG sent £82,000 to support the work of the church in areas of greatest need. Look for Myanmar on their website (www.uspg.org.uk) and follow the links to find out about current projects such as:
★ Rural education and healthcare
★ Cyclone relief
★ AIDS awareness
★ Supporting clergy
★ Agricultural training
★ Holy Cross Theological College
A seemingly small amount of UK money goes a very long way in Burma, and is hugely appreciated.
The contact details are:
USPG: Anglicans in World Mission, 200 Great Dover Street, London SE1 4YB
Website: www.uspg.org.uk / Supporter Care Team: 0845 273 1701 / E-mail: [email protected]
Supporting the Church in Burma (Myanmar)
Paul Daybell and Barbara Scarlett-Smith