The earthquake brought widespread devastation, especially in Mandalay City, where numerous high-rise buildings, pagodas, mosques, and churches were reduced to rubble. The iconic Sagaing Bridge, spanning the famous Irrawaddy River, also suffered severe damage, with parts of the structure collapsing into the river—a heartbreaking sight for locals.
Impact on the Salesian Community

The Salesian community in Mandalay was severely affected by the earthquake. The St. John Paul II Chapel suffered extensive damage, with its façade and parts of the walls collapsing. Tragically, two faithful who were present for Adoration were injured. The building housing street children also sustained significant damage, including to its ceiling and sections of the walls.

Plaster fell from several rooms' walls in the confreres' quarters, and the dining room corridor was damaged. Thankfully, no confreres were injured. However, two of the faithful and one street boy sustained minor injuries.

In Anisakan, which houses many religious buildings of the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) and the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), the earthquake caused widespread structural damage. The St. Joseph Chapel in the Provincial House Community suffered cracks at the back of the altar, and the statue of St. Joseph was broken at its pedestal—a symbolic reminder of the disaster's impact on the spiritual and physical fabric of the community.

A Symbolic Gesture of Global Solidarity
In a symbolic and heartfelt gesture, Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard addressed the earthquake during this morning's Chapter Assembly in Turin. He exhorted the assembly to pray, especially for the people affected by the earthquake in Myanmar, and invited the provincial of Myanmar, Fr Bosco Zeya Aung, to brief them about the situation. Fr. Attard also assured him that the Salesian world would help contribute to the immediate relief efforts for those affected. His words were a powerful reminder of the global Salesian family's commitment to solidarity and action during moments of crisis.

A Plea for Prayers and Support
This natural disaster strikes Myanmar at a time of great political instability, making humanitarian aid, transportation, and communication extremely challenging. The Salesian communities and the local population struggle to respond to the urgent needs of those affected.

"We humbly request your prayers for our people during this calamity," said Fr. Edward Sein Myint, the Superior of the Community. "The road to recovery will require material assistance and spiritual solidarity as we support one another in rebuilding our lives and faith."

Salesian Spirit in Action
In the true spirit of the Salesian mission, the communities in Myanmar remain steadfast in their commitment to serving the most vulnerable. Despite the challenges posed by the earthquake and the ongoing political crisis, their dedication reflects the charism of Don Bosco: bringing hope and healing to those in need, even amidst adversity.

As the communities begin to assess the full extent of the damage, the prayers, solidarity, and support of the global Salesian family will be crucial in helping Myanmar recover from this tragedy.

Courtesy: (ANS – Anisakan)