Democracy Archives

Cardinal urges Burma government, citizens to come together against Covid

Jul 20, 2021

Myanmar’s top ecclesial authority has urged citizens and the government to set differences aside and join forces in fighting the spread of the coronavirus, voicing hope that collaboration in this regard will bring healing and unity in a divided nation.

By Elise Ann Allen

As violence escalates, Myanmar cardinal urges prayer for coup leaders

Jun 20, 2021

In his Sunday homily, Myanmar Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon urged citizens to hold onto hope as fighting in the country escalates and to pray for the leaders of the nation’s violent coup, insisting that hatred will never lead to a solution.

By Elise Ann Allen

As coup protests spike, Myanmar bishops urge aid, protection of worship sites

Jun 13, 2021

With public backlash expected to rise as the trial of Myanmar’s ousted democratic leader looms, the nation’s bishops have made an appeal to the military to cease targeting places of worship and to allow humanitarian aid to reach at-risk populations.

By Elise Ann Allen

Another church targeted in Myanmar before day of prayer

Jun 8, 2021

On the same day that Pope Francis urged participation in a prayer initiative for the troubled nations of Myanmar and the Holy Land, another church was destroyed in the southern Burmese state of Kayah, marking the sixth such attack in just two weeks.

By Elise Ann Allen

China-watcher says new Hong Kong prelate embodies ‘balance’ on Beijing

May 22, 2021

An expert on Chinese affairs has called Jesuit Father Stephen Chow, the newly-named bishop of Hong Kong, a balanced choice for the Vatican as it attempts to navigate the complicated and rapidly changing on-the-ground status of the territory.

By Elise Ann Allen

Myanmar priest, ex-pat says Pope’s words and witness deliver hope

May 18, 2021

A young priest from Myanmar has thanked Pope Francis for his frequent and vocal calls for peace as citizens continue to die protesting for democracy, saying the pope’s support has given people in the country hope.

By Elise Ann Allen

Missionary calls sentenced Hong Kong activists ‘prophets for our days’

Apr 19, 2021

A longtime missionary in Hong Kong and a personal friend to several of the pro-democracy activists who received jail sentences last week for their vocal opposition to the city’s new national security law, has praised them as courageous witnesses in the face of oppression.

By Elise Ann Allen

Cardinal urges hope as Myanmar undergoes own ‘way of the cross’

Apr 2, 2021

In his Easter message, Myanmar Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon drew a parallel between Jesus’s own suffering and death and his country’s fight for democracy.

By Elise Ann Allen