Yaung Ni Oo

A teacher traces the life story of the priest, who died in March 2007, ten years after his death. He fulfilled his vocation "until the last day". He shared everything, the food and movements and lives of the faithful. His dedication to the people and to the emerging mission "began with these simple gestures."

The goal of next Saturday’s meeting is to ease sectarian tensions and foster dialogue among ethnic groups and religions. National political leaders are expected. The country’s federalisation will be on the agenda to protect minority groups. For NLD leader, problems can be dealt without violence.

Over a hundred youth attended the gathering, including AVSI sponsored children. Reading and listening to the Word of God was the camp’s main activity. All “religions are based on love and sharing of one's life,” said one young participant.

Myanmar Catholics launch solidarity projects for Kachin and Shan refugees, fleeing the war. Those taking part in the Christmas initiative include Patrick Lee Kum, in prison for sharing a post regarding the army chief. He faces up to three years in prison, but his thoughts turn to the displaced. Objective: to provide a meal for all at Christmas.

For the authorities, the situation is back to normal in most of the country, except in some areas in Yangon and Mandalay. For the government, the problem was due to an attack by Kachin rebels against the power grid in Shan state. Electrical power minister is criticised; calls are made for his removal.

Opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and government officials attend the service marking the centennial of Myanmar’s main Christian place of worship. The pope’s blessing and best wishes for the country’s development are read out. Mass and homily are read in English, Burmese and ethnic minority dialects.

The step, which will take effect in the next few days, follows an amnesty in October that saw the release of 200 people jailed for “crimes of opinion”. Opposition leader could run in an upcoming by-election. Forty seats must be filled. Soon, her party will decide whether to register.

Third meeting between opposition leaders and Labour Minister Aung Kyi. Talks judged "satisfactory” and included protection of the Irrawaddy and national stability. Burmese political experts consider the recent political developments in Burmese politics "positive", freed of the influence of General Than Shwe.

These are the two principles that have inspired the second training course on ecumenism, organized by the Archdiocese of Yangon. Mgr. Bo urges Christians to work for the country's democratic progress and political leaders to listen to the indications of religious leaders.

The opposition leader confirms the beginning of change in the country, but warns that “Change is not always for the better”. For her, the international community must contribute to a solution. The United States is cautiously optimistic about the situation. After many years, some websites are unblocked but the Burmese are still focused on an important dam in Kachin state.

The pontifical representative celebrated Mass in Sacred Heart Cathedral. Love is at the centre of human life, he told the faithful. During his stay, he spent time at a seminary and announced a new visit at the beginning of next year. The bishop of Myitkyina called for peace in Kachin state where the refugee situation is getting worse because of clashes between the military and rebel troops.

Myanmar is going through many changes, including new visa rules, the first trade unions, an expanding mobile phone network and better infrastructures. But the main change is the strength of the local currency, the kyat, against the US dollar. Next month, IMF officials are coming to help stabilise the currency and prices.