The inauguration of a new Catholic church in Chin State has brought encouragement to Christians in north-western Myanmar, despite years of violence and instability following the 2021 military coup.
Chin State, the only state in Myanmar with a Christian majority, has largely been under the control of resistance forces opposed to the ruling military junta. In this challenging context, Catholics in the Diocese of Hakha gathered on 12 February for the solemn blessing and opening of the new St Joseph’s parish church in the town of Matupi.
Local Church sources described the occasion as a strong sign of renewal and hope. Many churches across the state have been damaged or destroyed during military operations. In April 2025, Christ the King Church in Falam, within the Diocese of Hakha, was reportedly hit during attacks by the Burmese army. Earlier, in February 2025, Sacred Heart Church in Mindat — which was due to become the cathedral of the newly created Diocese of Mindat — was damaged in an airstrike.
Bishop Lucius Hre Kung of Hakha presided over the inauguration ceremony. Addressing the congregation, he said the dedication of a new church is among the most joyful and meaningful moments in parish life. He noted that such a project usually follows years of planning, prayer, fundraising and sacrifice by the faithful.
The bishop said the new building stands as a visible reminder of God’s love, particularly during a period marked by suffering and uncertainty. He told worshippers that although church buildings may be destroyed, faith endures in the hearts of believers. He encouraged the faithful to remain united in prayer and steadfast in hope.
Since the coup in 2021, resistance groups have taken control of large areas of Chin State, which is now regarded as one of the country’s “liberated zones”. Armed groups including the Chinland Defense Force and the Chin National Defense Force are reported to be operating alongside longer-established organisations such as the Chin National Front and the Chin National Army.
Chin State has a population of around 500,000 people, of whom approximately 85 per cent are Christian. Most belong to Baptist communities, while around 70,000 are Catholic. The region has become a centre of resistance to military rule.
After losing control of significant territory, the army has reportedly carried out repeated airstrikes on towns and villages. More than 160,000 people have been displaced, and civilian infrastructure, including religious buildings, has been damaged.
The town of Thantlang has become a symbol of the destruction. Between late 2021 and early 2022, fires and military operations forced the entire population of around 10,000 residents to flee. Of the town’s 22 churches, only one remains standing. Churches belonging to Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, Pentecostal and Seventh-day Adventist communities were among those destroyed.
According to a Chin-based human rights organisation, more than 107 religious buildings, including 67 churches, have been destroyed in the state since 2021.
Against this backdrop, the opening of the new parish church in Matupi is being seen by many local Catholics as a testimony to resilience and enduring faith in the midst of conflict.
Original reporting by Agenzia Fides, rewritten for this publication.
