Myanmar Catholic Bishops Conference (CBCM) chief Bishop Felix Lian. Photo: Rijo JosephYangon: Amid clashes and continuing uncertainty, the Catholics in Myanmar are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Pope Francis. However, they are also worried over the announcements 'the Ordinary Man's Pope' is expected to make. However, the Myanmar Catholic Bishops Conference (CBCM) chief Bishop Felix Lian shared with Manorama the great expectations the community has from the Pope's visit.
Excerpts:
On Myanmar and peace
There is calamity. Internal issues are cropping up everywhere. Time and energy of human beings should be utilized to do good things. Clashes are taking place in the country's east, west, north and south. There is tension too.
These tough times tell us to show and spread the message of real love. The church can't stay away from day-to-day issues. But we can't also intervene politically. We are trying to stay away from politics but at the same time stay closely with society. We are also trying to spread humaneness and the message of love.
Photo: Rijo JosephThe importance of the Pope's visit
He is the shepherd who is coming to see the deprived and the devout. His visit was decided when nobody was expecting it.
The transformation to democracy
Our country is taking steps to enter the world of debates and discourses. Various communities should be able to respect each other and come to others' help during times of distress. We believe that the Pope's visit will be a message in this regard.
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