Restricted
Myanmar (Burma)
Christian faith in Burma traces its roots to the missionary efforts of Adoniram Judson, who arrived in 1813 with his wife, Ann. The revised Judson Bible translation into Burmese is still the standard used by churches. Most Christians are from the Chin and Karen tribal groups, while relatively few of Myanmar’s Burman ethnic majority have come to faith. Myanmar has many Bible schools, even though most are illegal, and indigenous church planters and missionaries boldly proclaim the gospel. Churches are growing despite widespread persecution by the government and the Buddhist majority. The Burman ethnic majority dominates and oppresses the other tribal groups. After a political coup in 2021, political change has been frequently discussed, but only superficial change has occurred, and the military still controls the country.
Major Religion
Most Burman tribal members are Buddhist, while the Chin and Karen people groups identify as Christian and are oppressed by the government. Rohingya Muslims are a small but significant group.
Persecutor
The government, in cooperation with Buddhist monks, is the main persecutor in Myanmar, but local officials and tribal militias also persecute Christians. Families and villagers who practice animism often persecute those who convert to Christianity.
WHAT IT MEANS TO FOLLOW CHRIST IN MYANMAR
The widespread, long-running civil war directly affects Christians when they are targeted for attack by the warring factions. Villagers with animistic beliefs take vengeance on Christians, claiming they are angering the local spirits. Church gatherings and church buildings are allowed in many parts of the country, but tolerance varies from state to state. Active believers who share their faith face difficulties. Within tribal groups, families oppose conversion, and new believers are subject to close government monitoring. Buddhist monks have actively opposed new Christian converts and evangelists. Some pastors have been arrested and detained for a few days at a time.
Access to Bibles
Bibles can be purchased and owned legally in small numbers, but most people cannot afford them. While bookstores in large cities sell Bibles, they are unavailable in many regions. To avoid government restrictions, many Burmese Bibles are brought into the country from other countries to meet the need. Give Bibles
VOM Work
VOM provides materials for the growing church, distributes Bibles and provides training for Christians. We also assist those who are kicked out of their village and face persecution. Give to VOM’s Global Ministry
Pray for Myanmar (Burma)
- Pray that Christians who share their faith will be strengthened to endure any persecution they face.
- Pray that believers will boldly proclaim Christ when opposed by Buddhist monks.
- Pray that discipleship training and materials will effectively equip Christians to be faithful.
- Pray that God's Word will be accessible as most Christians in the country cannot afford Bibles.
- Pray that Christians converting from animism will forgive their persecutors when attacked for their faith.
