Cardinal Bo calls for reconciliation amid Myanmar’s turmoil

Feb 10, 2025

YANGON: The congregation, primarily Catholics, was joined by Buddhists, Muslims, and Hindus, demonstrating a shared hope for reconciliation in a country deeply scarred by conflict.

In his homily, Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon emphasized the role of the Virgin Mary as a beacon of peace, reconciliation, and forgiveness in times of turmoil. 

Drawing parallels between Mary’s journey and the struggles of internally displaced people, the cardinal urged those gathered to seek peace amid adversity.

Mary as symbol of peace and reconciliation
Addressing the crowd, Cardinal Bo reflected on the example of Mary, who accepted God’s will with trust despite uncertainty. 

He likened her resilience to that of mothers in Myanmar’s displacement camps, carrying their children through dangerous and uncertain conditions.

“In every pregnant mother in these camps, we see the face of an anxious Mary journeying to Bethlehem,” Cardinal Bo said. “Their courage reminds us that peace is not the absence of adversity but the presence of God within it.”

He also highlighted the universal message of reconciliation embodied in Mary’s visit to Elizabeth, calling for unity across political, cultural, and religious divides. 

Citing the Holy Family’s flight to Egypt as refugees, he urged compassion for displaced families and emphasized the need to build bridges rather than walls.

Forgiveness amidst suffering
Cardinal Bo spoke about Mary’s role in forgiveness, recalling her presence at the foot of the Cross. He compared her silent suffering to the grief of mothers who have lost children to violence.

“Like Mary, these mothers find the strength to carry on, to forgive, and to become advocates for peace and reconciliation,” he said.

The cardinal also pointed to the annual gathering of military veterans in Lourdes—former enemies who now stand together in peace—as a model for Myanmar. 

He called for similar reconciliation among those involved in the country’s ongoing conflicts.

Call to action for peace and justice
The homily concluded with a challenge to all present to become active agents of peace. Cardinal Bo urged the faithful to cultivate inner peace, seek reconciliation, and practice forgiveness in their daily lives. 

He encouraged concrete steps such as supporting displaced families, engaging in interfaith dialogue, and advocating for peace and justice.

“As we celebrate this Jubilee Year of Hope, let us renew our commitment to building a world where all people can live in peace and dignity,” he said. “May Mary, the Mother of God, help us give birth to global peace and harmony, especially in Myanmar.”--licas.news