Amid National Challenges, Adventist Church in Myanmar Advances Mission Refocus Initiative

As Myanmar continues to navigate political instability, armed conflict in some regions, and economic strain, the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the country moves forward with a clear priority: mission.

Since the military takeover in 2021, parts of the nation have experienced unrest, displacement, and damage to infrastructure, affecting communities and institutions alike. Travel limitations and security concerns have complicated ministry in several territories. Yet within these realities, the church has strengthened its alignment with the global Mission Refocus initiative—an intentional call by the world church to redirect attention, resources, and personnel to frontline and unreached areas.

Understanding Mission Refocus
Mission Refocus emphasizes renewed commitment to evangelism, discipleship, and cross-cultural outreach, particularly in regions where the gospel remains least known. It calls every member, institution, and territory to examine how they can participate more actively in fulfilling Christ’s commission to reach “every nation, tribe, language and people.” For Myanmar, a predominantly Buddhist nation within the 10/40 window, this initiative carries both local and global significance.

Equipping Frontline Mission Workers
From Jan. 25 to 31, 2026, the Myanmar Union Mission (MYUM) Adventist Mission Office gathered 50 Global Mission Pioneers and frontline workers at the Upper Myanmar Mission headquarters in Pyin Oo Lwin for Mission Refocus-oriented training. A second group of 50 workers received similar training from Feb. 2 to 5 at MYUM headquarters.

Dr. Samuel Wang, Buddhist Relations director of the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD), facilitated the sessions. He equipped participants with a deeper understanding of Adventist beliefs, principles of health ministry, and practical approaches to building respectful relationships within Buddhist communities. Organizers said the training sought to strengthen workers not only in theology but also in cultural sensitivity and long-term community engagement.

Leaders emphasized that Mission Refocus in Myanmar involves both nurturing the local field and preparing workers who can serve beyond their immediate territories. Despite economic and security challenges, Myanmar continues to contribute Global Mission Pioneers who serve in difficult areas, demonstrating that mission flows outward even from regions facing hardship.

Participants described the training as spiritually renewing and mission-centered. Many affirmed a stronger commitment to serve faithfully in their assigned districts and to support the broader global mission of the church.

Mobilizing Leaders at the Local Level
Mission Refocus momentum continued on Feb. 14 to 15 at Taungzalat Church in Kalay Myo, where Dr. Jose Jr. Zabat, SSD Mission Refocus director, joined Pr. Mang S. Tuang, MYUM Mission Refocus director, and Dr. Thang Kang Lo, president of Upper Myanmar Mission, to conduct promotion and leadership training.

More than 30 district pastors, local church pastors, and elders attended the sessions, which focused on intentional discipleship, revival, and strategic participation in global evangelistic priorities. Leaders challenged attendees to evaluate how each congregation can become a sending center—raising disciples who will share the message of hope both within Myanmar and beyond its borders.

A Church United in Worship and Purpose
On Sabbath, the Mission Refocus team joined a district-wide fellowship organized by the Remnant Band Women Ministries under the theme “Revive Us Again.” More than 800 members from 16 churches gathered in worship, reflecting strong lay involvement in advancing mission at the grassroots level. Church leaders noted that the visible unity and enthusiasm of members signal a church determined to remain active despite uncertainty in the national landscape.

Rebuilding Amid Conflict
The weekend also included the dedication of a newly constructed principal’s residence at Upper Myanmar Adventist Seminary. The former building had sustained severe damage from two bomb explosions during regional conflict. Through insurance support and financial assistance from SSD, the union, and the mission, the residence was rebuilt. Leaders described the dedication as a reminder that mission continues even in fragile contexts, supported by the solidarity of the global church.

Church administrators in Myanmar said Mission Refocus has helped unify efforts across departments and congregations, ensuring that evangelism, education, health outreach, and community service remain centered on Christ’s commission.

While Myanmar faces ongoing national challenges, its Adventist members reaffirm their role in the worldwide movement of sharing hope. Through training, revival, rebuilding, and sending, the church in Myanmar stands not only as a mission field but also as a mission force—participating in the global call to proclaim the everlasting gospel to every tongue, tribe, and people.

The original article was published on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.