Source: www.persecution.org
Date: January 13, 2023
Myanmar (International Christian Concern) – On December 30, the Burmese military shelled St. Michael Catholic Church in San Hka village, located in predominately Christian Kachin state. At least one civilian was killed and five were reported injured.
Two children were among the five who were wounded after one artillery shell hit the village and another was dropped in the church compound.
This attack came two months after one of the worst attacks in Kachin state since the military coup began in February of 2021. In late October of 2022, the military junta bombed a concert that left at least 63 people dead. Most of the victims were members of the Kachin Independence Organization, a pro-democracy rebel group.
The Burmese military, also called the Tatmadaw, has controlled Myanmar since it deposed its democratically elected government in the February 2021 coup. ICC has reported extensively on the campaign of violence the military has waged against Burmese civilians to maintain power.
Religious minorities, including Christians, have faced heightened levels of violence from the military. The military has targeted churches, convents, and other religious institutions in its bloody campaign across the predominately Christian regions of Kachin, Kayah, Karen, and Chin states.
HOW TO PRAY: Pray for comfort for the family that lost a loved one. Pray for healing for all those who were injured. Pray for protection for children who are vulnerable to violence in Myanmar.