Two member churches Presbyterian Church of India (PCI) and United Reformed Church (URC) have released separate statements of solidarity with the Presbyterian Church of Myanmar (PCM) as the situation continues to deteriorate in Myanmar.
The URC added its voice to the many voices who have condemned the violence used to suppress nationwide protests by citizens, and commended their “immense courage in their determination to secure justice for their nation and in standing against the forces of evil”.
It also affirmed the statement by 12 national defence chiefs including the UK’s Foreign Secretary, stating that a professional military is responsible for protecting – not harming – the people it serves, and urged the Myanmar Armed Forces to cease violence and work to restore respect and credibility with the people of Myanmar.
In addition, The National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK) expressed its hope that “this democratisation movement will serve as the cornerstone of Myanmar’s true democratisation, where the right to live and the right to autonomy of various ethnic minorities are respected.” In its statement of solidarity, it also urged the Myanmar military to “respect the results of the general elections and immediately hand over power to the civilian government.”
“It is the prayer of the church that violence and sufferings of the innocents must be stopped immediately, justice prevail, and peace be restored in the country,” wrote PCI Senior Administrative Secretary Rev G.S Lyttan in the statement issued by PCI.
Click here to view the statement by the National Council of Churches in Korea (NCCK).
Click here for Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT)’s statement.
Click here for the Presbyterian Church of India (PCI)’s statement.
Image: Night Vigil in Hakha, Chin State/PCANZ Facebook page