Salute e Sviluppo
A Look Back.. CTF Thailand – Myanmar Mission #1 – Part 2
In May 2008 Cyclone Nargis devastated the Union of Myanmar (also known as Burma). It caused the worst natural disaster in the country’s recorded history. At least 146,000 people died and thousands more people went missing. CTF Thailand, SOS DRS, Salute e Sviluppo and the Camillians wanted to help those who were suffering. So after a situational analysis and with outside support, CTF Thailand chose to work in collaboration with a local partner in Myanmar – the Border Area Development Association (see CTF Thailand – Myanmar Mission #1 – Part 1 in our December 8, 2008 e-newsletter).
The CTF Thailand response to Cyclone Nargis was led by Fr. Rocco Sriprasert, the Vice Provincial of the Thai Vice–Province, and Fr. Dominic Akrapan, the Director of Camillian Hospital in Bangkok. It was Fr. Dominic who first led a reconnaissance team into Myanmar in order to do a situation analysis and to find a partner with whom to collaborate. They found the BDA, the Border Area Development Association, an NGO in Myanmar. And then together with Fr. Rocco, on May 28 Fr. Dominic developed a plan and an operating budget that included emergency aid that would provide for the livelihood, temporary shelter, food and support of 3,000 families. Because the Thai medical personnel would not be allowed to go the most affected areas, Fr. Rocco decided to provide support for Myanmar health personal through training doctors and volunteers, and providing medicines. And this effort would be supported by a base of operations in Rangoon, Myanmar – an office with staff including a director, project manager, Thai coordinator, Burmese Coordinator, translators and ancillary personnel. There would be other expenses including transportation and lodging.
Responding to disasters involves gathering many types of resources: human, material and financial – from near and far. I was far away from Myanmar when on May 20 I first started to seriously considered going to Thailand and then Myanmar to help. I was in Rome at the time at the CTF coordinator’s office. I was beginning to believe that I might really be able to get into Myanmar despite the fact that since May 2, when the Cyclone struck, the government had closed the country to foreigners – particularly Americans. Even Myanmar’s neighbors from Thailand were restricted in their movements. Then on May 30 I received a discouraging e–mail from Fr. Rocco that “The Myanmar officers are quite strict with western people but they allow with limit for Thai, Indian and some Asian people. They don’t allow foreigner to enter the Irrawaddy Delta.” That news seriously dashed my hopes for going to Myanmar so I resigned myself to staying in Rome and then returning to the US to do some fundraising to support the relief effort. Given the gravity of the disaster and the ensuing need, that was the least I could do. I would also focus on trying to get Theresia Sinaga, the CTF Indonesian Coordinator, involved in the disaster response in Myanmar. Fr. Rocco welcomed both.
The preparatory work for the disaster response in Thailand and Myanmar continued. In early June Fr. Rocco sent me a list of 37 Burmese physicians (20 women and 17 men) with whom the Camillian Hospital Group Team would collaborate. They were 2 surgeons and 2 nurses from Camillian Hospital in Bangkok. These 4 would train the Burmese physicians and volunteers in the care of infected wounds, trauma and waterborne diseases.
Myanmar is divided into divisions (states) and smaller townships. Townships are composed of villages. It was the southern part of the country that was most affected by Cyclone Nargis. Fr. Rocco and the leaders of the DBA initially decided to serve primarily the people along the seashore southwest of Rangoon in the Irrawaddy Delta. They focused on 3 townships: KAWHMU; KUNGYANGON; DEDAAYE (see Yangon Division Map). In these townships they would focus on 15 villages – targeting a quantity of 3000 families.
July came and with it did a greater commitment on the part of the CTF in the US and Salute e Sviluppo to support the relief effort in Myanmar. In the US, D’Ann Fisher, Vienna Maalouf and I were already fundraising in parishes as part of the mission cooperation plan (MCP). This plan allows missionaries to enter into dioceses to speak and raise money. We went to the Dioceses of Rockford, Salinas, Syracuse, Worcester and Hartford. I even had the chance to speak at St. Ann’s Parish in Manlius , New York where I received my First Communion and was later confirmed. Praise the Lord! And Brother Luca Perletti in Rome, in his capacity as the head of the Secretariat for the Missions, was searching for funding from Caritas Italia. Brother Luca is the person with whom I most collaborate in Rome in my capacity as the CTF international coordinator. The Fr. General and the Consulta requested that the CTF provide significant financial support for the ongoing relief effort in Myanmar. We were happy to do so. We made that affirmative response official at our first SOSDRS board meeting on July 24, 25 in North Carolina. Brother Luca was in attendance along with Michael Firmin (Vice–President); Todd Binet (Treasurer); D’Ann Fisher (Secretary) and Sherman Runions.
Time passed and the Camillians in Thailand were unfortunately hindered in their plans to enter into Myanmar. According to the DBA, there were security concerns and governmental clearance problems. The Camillians did receive offers of significant financial support from Salute e Sviluppo, the CTF and the Saint Camillus Foundation in Thailand. After several months of patient waiting CTF Thailand Myanmar Mission #1 finally started on October 3, 2008. This first foray into Myanmar would last through October 10, a total of 1 week.
The delay in entering into Myanmar had allowed for a growth in the number of people who would compose the Camillian team from 5 to 8. These included:
1. Rev. Fr. Pairat Sripraseret, Vice–Provincial Superior, Camillians in Thailand
2. Rev. Fr. Dominic Ackrapan Nunthawanich, Director, Camillian Hospital, Bangkok
3. Dr. Manas Ratanachokthorani, Medical Doctor, San Camillo Hospital, Bang Pong, Rajburi
4. Mrs. Arpornphet Kongnava, Nurse, San Camillo Hospital, Bang Pong, Rajburi
5. Ms. Chadaporn Khaimarn, Hospital Administrator, San Camillo Hospital, Bang Pong, Rajburi
6. Ms. Supischa Chongpanichkajorn, Volunteer
7. Ms. Marissa Khomin Volunteer
8. Mr. Myo Thein Local Coordinator in Myanmar
The Camillian team arrived via plane in Yangon (Rangoon) on the morning of October 3, 2008. Working with the DBA, they finalized the plan for the next week. The 8–member team of CTF Thailand would be joined by 7 members of the DBA – 4 physicians and 3 other volunteers. Their mission would serve a slightly different area compared to the original plan in May/June. The focus would be on the Yangon Division – the townships of SHWEPYITHAR; HLAINGTHARYA, SOUTH DAGON, KYAUKTAN (see Yangon Division Map ) and the Ayeryawady Division – the townships of MAWKYUN and BOGALE (see Ayeyarwady Division Map )
What follows is the schedule for the mission, the ministry performed in each location and a description of the location itself. The content of this section is derived from my personal communication with Fr. Rocco.
See pictures from this mission:
Fr. Scott Binet MD, MI
International Coordinator – CTF
Cyclone Nargis 10 – CTF Thailand in Myanmar
CTF Thailand just completed its eighth mission into Myanmar in the wake of Cyclone Nargis (5/2008). From December 1-7, 2009 the team focused on the training program that it has developed for village health workers at the eight free clinics supported by St. Camillus Foundation, the juridical entity that CTF Thailand presently utilizes to accomplish its mission.
Here is a brief look at the itinerary for the Dec 1-7 mission into Myanmar.
1st – 7th December 2009
Tuesday, 1/12/2009
Yangon/BDA’s Office, Yangon [Borderline Area Development Association]
a.m. - Arriving Yangon check in at Kandawgyi Hotel
14h00 - Visit to BDA’s Office for discussion with Mr. U Than Htay, BDA’s staff and the organizer of the Health Training Program
Wednesday, 2/12/2009
Yangon/Mawkyun
05h30 - Leaving Yangon for Mawkyun by Express boat
– arriving Mawkyun around 12h30
13h30 – 17h30
- Discussion and following up with the Abbot of Pyisimaryon of all supported activities
- Training Course for Village Health Workers
Thursday, 3/12/2009
Mawkyun
08h00-12h00 and 13h00-17h30
- Training Course for Village Health Workers
- Providing blankets, rice and dried food for orphans
Friday, 4/12/2009
Mawkyun/ Yangon
06h00 - Leaving Mawkyun for Yangon
Saturday, 5/12/2009
Multipurposes center (clinic No. 8), Karya
09h00-12h00 and 13h00 – 13h00-16h00
- Training Course for Village Health Workers
Sunday, 6/12/2009
Multipurposes center (clinic No. 8), Karya
09h00-12h00 and 13h00-16h00
- Training Course for Village Health Workers
Monday, 7/12/2009
Yangon/Bangkok
09h00 – Leaving Yangon for Bangkok
I am presently in Bangkok, Thailand at the CTF-(vice) Provinces 1 Meeting. I have been blessed to have the opportunity to listen to the Thai representatives of the CTF and Theresia Sinaga from Indonesia as they recount their experiences of the various missions into Myanmar – the joys and the difficulties. I hope to experience some of them in Myanmar myself – maybe in January. Stay tuned for news about that possibility and a more detailed report on this most recent mission of CTF Thailand into Myanmar.
Fr. Scott
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Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
CTF Thailand Myanmar Mission #6 was conducted for the purpose of both monitoring projects previously implemented on behalf of the victims of Cyclone Nargis in Bogolay Township and evaluating the results of completed projects. Three new locations were added to the existing list of villages supported and maintained by CTF Thailand and its collaborators.
Participants from the Camillian team included: Pairat Sripraseret (Vice-Provincial of the Camillians in Thailand); Ms. Marissa Khomin (Volunteer) and Mr. Myo Thein (Local Coordinator in Myanmar).
The team visited 6 locations: Pyisimaryone Monastery, Upper Kyane Lada Village and Kwin Chuang Village in Mawkyun Township; Ngwe Tang Yan Village, Paun Tel Village Tract and Oke Tube Village in Bogolay Township (see CTF Thailand – Myanmar Mission #1 – Part 1)
Medical Services were provided to about 585 patients. Villagers were also provided with rice, cooking oil and medicines. Financial support was provided for the continuance of a housing project in the vicinity of Pyisimaryone Monastery and for the medical clinic in the area. The clinic in Ngwe Tang Yan Village and Upper Kyane Lada Village also received financial support.
The Mission
The CTF Thailand mission began in Yangon on May 9, 2009 with a meeting at a hotel with Mr. U Maung Maung Soe Tint, the Chairman of the Border Areas Development Association (BDA) and the founder of Civil Society Initiative (CSI), and with Ms. Daw Moe Moe Soe, Livelihood Project Manager.
- Camillian Team at Pyisimaryone; Upper Kyane Lada
A progress report reflected that technical and/or administrative challenges necessitated that modifications be made to the locations previously designated for the Big Pond Project. The purpose of this project is to rehabilitate and purify the ponds in the Delta Region so that the water can be used for drinking purposes. Out of 14 ponds initially targeted for rehabilitation, 11 were “relocated” to three different townships [different ones were chosen]. The team arranged to visit the Kawmhu Township and Kungyangon Township where the rehabilitation of ponds had been initiated.
Previous negotiations included the formation of two medical clinics with reserved funds in the amount of US $6,000. Plans for the proposed clinic at Thit Phyu Chaung and Delaye were postponed due to the death of the Abbot.
In lieu of the former agenda, the BDA proposed the “Village Health Clinics Project,” with the goal of servicing the six villages in the Delta Region where CTF Thailand was sponsoring the Big Pond Project. Final decisions are awaiting approval.
The last two days of the mission were set aside for a meeting in Yangon between the CTF Team and the BDA team to discuss future plans for the joint collaborative program, the upcoming mission in July, and plans for a CTF mission in September.
- Kungyangon
Immediately following the discussion, the CTF team departed from Yangon to Mawkyun Township where they were joined by a team of volunteers and staff organized by the BDA. Volunteer health care staff included Dr. Wai Lwin, Dr. Wai Lynn Aung, Dr. Win Naing Oo, Mr. Min Ko Oo, Mr. Khun Thein Zaw Tun, Ms. Ei Thantay Myint (Sandra) and Ms. Yadano Phyo (Laura). A number of community members also offered their services.
The teams traveled by car and by boat. Traveling through rugged terrain on unfinished roads, they took the express boat to Mawkyun where the missionary activities commenced. Commutes to nearby smaller villages often required travel in small boats, as they are more easily maneuvered. Traveling challenges included low tides, heat, and insects.
The team spent their nights at the villages, at the Pyisimaryone Monastery, and at the Kandawgyi Hotel – when back in Yangon.
In Mawkyun, the team attended to the medical needs of the Pyisimaryone Clinic, a healthcare facility supported by the CTF. Subsequently, they departed for Kungyangon, Kawmhu Township to address the Big Ponds Project with BDA staff and engineer U Than Htay.
- CTF Meeting in Kungyangon
In Ngwe Taung Yun Village, Bogolay Township, the Abbot and the president of St. Camillus Foundation visited the housing project supported by the CTF and its collaborators. The project consisted of 10 simple housing units. During a previous inspection, 4 of the units had been completed. The team visited the remainder of the supported houses. Five of these new dwellings housed families consisting of four, six, three, four and four persons, respectively. The remaining new dwelling will be occupied by Mrs. Daw Lone Tin and her daughter, Ms. Lay.
All houses are located within one kilometer of the Monastery. One of the homes is a bit more remote than the others, requiring 10 minutes travel time by boat. The family members of all houses were very pleased and grateful for the support received and for the accommodations.
In Kwin Chaung Village, Mawkyun Township, one of the new sites added to the CTF mission route, the team focused on the lack of medical services in the vicinity. The village is home to about 800 inhabitants (300 families.) The village maintains an existing village committee of 16 members. In addition, there were 6 monks and 11 novices to support community activities. The Chief Abbot of Pyisimaryone had supported the building of a sizable monastery school (300m. x 800 m.) supported by APEF (Asia Peace and Education Foundation.) The Abbot of Kwin Chaung Monastery had placed a request, through the Chief Abbot of Pyisimaryone Monastery, to the St. Camillus Foundation for assistance with the foundation and support of a small medical clinic in the community.
- Tel Chuan Village
On May 12, 2009 a meeting was held for the purpose of discussing joint collaboration efforts. Notable decision-makers present included: U Cin Tita Likara (Chief Abbot, Pyisimaryone Monastery); U Kari Ya Winta (Abbot of Kwin Chaung Monastery); Pairat Sriprasert (President, St. Camillus Foundation Thailand); Myo Thien (Local Coordinator); Marissa Khomin (Saint Camillus Foundation of Thailand).
The Saint Camillus Foundation of Thailand agreed to provide the foundation for a basic clinic at the Kwin Chaung Village, which would operate under the immediate supervision of Abbots U Kari Yan and U Cin Tita Likara. This included the construction of the clinic on land provided by the local government and funds in the amount of US $1,500 – for the expenses associated with the erection of the clinic as well as operating expenses for one month. Subsequently, the St. Camillus Foundation will provide support in the amount of US $500 each month until December 2009. Prior to the completion of the construction, medical services will be provided within the all-purposes facility of the local monastery.
- Village Water Reservoir; Paun Tel Village
As in previous negotiations, the chief abbot will arrange for medical personnel and staff to operate the clinics. The chief abbot will submit quarterly reports to the St. Camillus Foundation. The Pyisimaryone Monastery and Saint Camillus Foundation will jointly monitor and evaluate operations periodically.
In addition to other services, farming tools were provided for 100 families in the Kwin Chaung Village locality.
In Ngwe Tang Yan Village, Bogolay Township, Longgi, a type of traditional attire to be worn during the upcoming rainy season, was presented to 148 families – one set per family.
Following the scheduled agenda, the team returned to Yangon on May 14 and departed the following day for Bangkok.
The team participants were greatly inspired by the reception and gratitude they received from the villagers for services, supplies and housing provided. Likewise, the promise of successful future plans and the progress realized within the context of their meetings provided encouragement and hope to all who participated.
by Susan Stefanski – Assistant Editor
The Catholic Catechism Teaches. . . .
An increased sense of God and increased self-awareness are fundamental to any full development of human society. This development multiplies material goods and puts them at the service of the person and his freedom. It reduces dire poverty and economic exploitation. It makes for growth in respect for cultural identities and openness to the transcendent (Catechism, 2441).
References:
The Fourth Camillian Mission Report on the Areas Affected by the Cyclone Nargis in Myanmar (May 9, 2009 – May 15, 2009)
Catechism of the Catholic Church. (1997). New York: Doubleday, p. 646.
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
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CTF Thailand Myanmar Mission #2 – Part 2
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
CTF Thailand and CTF Indonesia Collaborate
Nearly a year after the landfall of Cyclone Nargis in May, 2008 the populations of Thailand and Myanmar continue to feel the effects of the catastrophe on their livelihoods and quality of existence. The CTF, in collaboration with other organizations, responded to the disaster by providing for the following needs of the affected: medical, the disbursement of supplies and funding, the provision of agricultural equipment, consolation in the form of spiritual and emotional support. See Recent Disaster Response: CTF Thailand – Myanmar Mission #1 – Part 1.
Myanmar
In our previous report on the efforts of CTF Thailand and CTF Indonesia (Myanmar Mission 2 – Part 1) in the Camillian Task Force SOS DRS April 2009 Newsletter, we discussed both the preparations required for the success of Mission 2 and some of the challenging delays our team encountered due to governmental intervention and the uprisings at the Suvarnabhumi Airport. We also recounted the efforts of Theresia Sinaga at the Camillian Home for People with Disabilities as she awaited authorization to travel.
The Joint Mission to Chiangrai
Finally, despite interruptions, God interceded on behalf of both His suffering people and the Camillian team. The latter was finally able to solidify travel arrangements for a mission into Myanmar scheduled for December 14 through 19. As the team awaited for final clearance to travel into the country, though, the partners of the Camillians in Myanmar and 23 BDA volunteers, under the leadership of Mr. Myo Thein, commenced with the previously proposed activities. In Kyauktan (near Yangon), they served the Zamburatanar Nunnery School where they provided medical services and provided an enjoyable afternoon for the young students by serving a lunch consisting of rice, chicken curry, preserved fish and other savory fare.
Meanwhile, the Camillian team in Thailand decided to zealously serve the Lord and their neighbors by helping the cyclone-affected populations in Chiangrai, Thailand. This area is located in the forested hill country of Thailand near the Myanmar border. The residents there often sport traditional Thai attire yet speak Burmese (Myanmarian). Luckily, students were present to translate. In their subsequent communication, team members expressed both feelings of joy for the opportunity to serve and alienation (as they were unable to access the internet to communicate with others regarding their activities!).
In her correspondence Theresia Sinaga highlights how activities commenced in Chiangrai on December 7 with the celebration of the Eucharist. Afterwards, the Camillian team ministered to the needs of about 100 patients through two mobile clinics.
The 40 mobile-clinic team members consisted of three doctors: Dr. Chusak Pankerd (Camillian Hospital, Bangkok), Dr. Manas Ratanachokthorani, and Dr. Pusha Nakrue (San Camillo Hospital). There were also a dentist, nurses and volunteers from the two hopitals – Camillian and San Camillo. During four days they served approximately 100 residents in two villages – predominantly children.
Theresia Sinaga reported that the populations of the remote farming villages they served were living in poverty. Road conditions left much to be desired. Although clean water was available, a cold climate and a lack of funds for supplies contributed to less than optimal hygiene. Baths were often a weekly luxury for the villagers. Common maladies included skin diseases and infestation by lice. Medical services in the locality are limited to those provided annually by mobile clinics.
After her return to Bangkok and prior to departing for the December mission into Myanmar, Theresia reported she was very much moved by the Holy Spirit as she witnessed both two Camillian brothers taking their final vows and later the ordination of three Camillian priests.
Into Myanmar
The team flew from Bangkok into Myanmar via Thai Airways. The option of driving would have added many hours to the journey, and the passage through security checkpoints presented the hazard of even more delays. Officials are reluctant to allow visitors to travel outside of Yangon. Even donations on behalf of the population were restricted. By mandate, disbursements to the needy could be made only through the local authorities.
Upon the arrival of the team in Myanmar, Fr. Rocco met with the Chairman of the BDA and Ms. Daw Moe Soe (founder of the CSI) regarding the arranged programs and future joint collaboration with the BDA and the CSI. The participants discussed the medical and agriculture needs of the affected Myanmarian population, including the feasibility of providing a water purification system to satisfy the immediate need for drinking water.
Subsequently, the Camillian team members embarked upon their journey to Bogolay. When they arrived at the pier, the team was greeted by CSI volunteers, who arrived armed with supplies, medication, and two boxes of Safe Delivery Kits donated by UNFPA. They crossed the Yangon River to Bogolay by ferry and then transferred to a taxi with four bald tires and no air conditioning. Traveling for 5 hours via roads that were under construction, the passengers braced themselves during the turbulent journey. They were moved with compassion as they observed the local citizens using the polluted river water for washing and drinking purposes.
When the team arrived at the temple in Bogolay, they utilized candles and a car battery for power and light. For three nights, eleven people slept on the temple floor on straw mats beneath the protection of mosquito nets. The following day, the team commenced on their mission to offer assistance to a series of local villages that had been affected by the wrath of Nargis.
Kapana Village
Population: 646 (158 families)
Elementary students: 164; Teachers: 5
Lake-Kapar Village
Population: 762 (195 families)
Subsistence: Farming, fishing
Travel Time: 1 hour+ (2 km)
The team departed from the pier near the Bogolay Temple along with the temple Abbot in a small boat laden with oils, onions & candles for distribution. Along the way, Fr. Rocco observed that the palm trees along the river banks were bare except for a few young leaves. The mature leaves had been used for construction following the disaster.
The village school had collapsed during the Cyclone and had been replaced with two small tents covered with plastic. The temperatures within were stifling. Residents had been waiting in vain for governmental support for new construction for over a year (estimated at US $17,000). When activities were concluded, team members realized that the tides had relocated their vessel: they trudged about a kilometer with their supplies before they were able to depart.
Pin Lai Thein Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 724 (132 Families)
Students: 200
Travel Time: 2 hours
The following day, while the team gulped down a hurried meal, obliging villagers assisted by loading supplies onto the boat. Upon arrival, the team discovered that the school consisted of a temporary shelter. Although CTF Thailand had previously provided some financial support for renovation, the need for a new temple and community facility was evident.
Oak Tube Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 2080 (410 Families)
Students: 180 (5 teachers)
Patients: 150
Subsistence: Farming, fishing
The team performed medical services in the monastery compound, which doubled as the school. Once again, tidal influences prevented a timely departure. The team worked into the wee hours and staggered to their boat in darkness, with only a few flashlights to illuminate their path. Upon arriving in Bogolay, the exhausted missionaries were left with only one hour to recuperate until their scheduled departure to the next location.
Ngwe Taung Yan Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 534
Patients: 120
Travel time: 2 hours
Upon arrival, the fatigued missionaries were greeted by the Abbot of Pyisimaryone Monastery, U Cin Tita Likara. In the Burmese culture, monasteries serve the communities in numerous capacities. They function as schools for underprivileged children and as points of distribution for supplies and shelter during disasters. “According to the social welfare department, 740 monasteries were destroyed and 3,235 monasteries were badly damaged when Cyclone Nargis made landfall on May 2 and 3 (See MYANMAR: Cyclone-hit monasteries in need).
The monks themselves often receive more respect and credibility than the village officials for maintaining, spiritual social and material balance within their communities. Thus, the Abbott is a key reference person for identifying the needs of the members of his community.
CTF Thailand had previously provided support to Ngwe Taung Yan Village for the erection of a clinic and housing. The team was pleased at the efficiency with which the clinic was operated. Since its grand opening on November 26, 2008, it has provided free services to 346 patients, and saved 4 lives. Medical services are provided by physicians and volunteers on a rotating schedule under the supervision of the Abbot. Fr. Rocco provided the Abbot with an advance for the expenses of medications for another three months, as per agreement.
Upper Kyane Lada Village, Mawkyun Township
Population: 944 (218 Families)
Students: (Government Primary School): 120 (Grades 1-8)
Patients: 200
Subsistence: Farming
Upon arrival to Upper Kyane Lada Village by boat, the team was welcomed by Abbot Dhama Tarmi of Maha Bodi Monastery. The team discovered that nearly every house in the village had been destroyed by Cyclone Nargis. The nearest health care facilities, accessible only via a narrow path through a field, were 6 km away.
On December 17 – Fr. Rocco, Myo Thein, U Cin Tita Likara, Marissa Khomin and U Dhama Tarmi discussed future collaboration. The St. Camillus Foundation of Thailand agreed to provide help in conjunction with the Pyisimaryone Monastery to facilitate the construction of a medical clinic with basic medical equipment, medical supplies and medications, along with a commitment to support the clinic with medications for one year. Abbott U Cin Tita Likara agreed to provide management, quality control, quarterly reporting and technical support. The clinic was to be modeled after the existing facility in Ngwe Taung Yan Village. The Pyisimaryone Monastery and the St. Camillus Foundation agreed to evaluate and monitor the clinic.
Upper Katha Bond Village, Mawkyun Township
Population: 350 (families - 100)
Students: 95
Pyisimaryone Monastery, Mawkyun
The group returned to Pyisimaryone Monastery where the Abbot had arranged for Fr. Rocco Pairat to distribute stationary to over 1,000 students at the monastic school that receives educational grants from the Camillians in Thailand. The subsequent voyage to Bogolay lasted two hours.
Thit Phyu Chaung Village, Bogolay Township
Population: 970, (families – 167)
Students: (Government Primary School- Grades 1- 5): 70
Patients: 60
There are no communication mediums between Thit Phyu Chuang Village and the rest of civilization. Thankfully, the prior arrival of two volunteers ensured the proper organization of activities. No time was squandered with formalities.
The local school had been completely destroyed by the savage Cyclone. It was replaced by a sweltering temporary shelter. The need for a new building, at an estimated cost of 166 Lakhs, was apparent.
Three children of the village were orphaned by Nargis’ tirade. Ms. May Yamon Soe (age 15, grade 10) and Ms. Thue Tar Khin (age 11, grade 7) live with their grandmothers. Mr. A Shin Thiha (age 12) is living in the monastery as a novice. All three require educational support.
The team provided medical services and supplies: oil, onions and candles. There were no latrines in the village so arrangements were made to provide funds for the purchase of plastic latrines for every family in the village. Arrangements were also made to provide support for the construction of a bridge from Thit Phyu Chaung Village to Ma Ye Ywar Village, at the request of the head of the village committee.
Fr. Rocco Pairat visited the temporary school and a piece of land that had been donated to the community to build a clinic. One of the villagers has been attending a three- month nurse assistant training course in Yangon with the support of CSI volunteers. Upon completion of the training, she plans to return to the village and provide for the basic health care needs of villagers. Fr. Rocco felt that it would be agreeable to explore the possibility and logistics of future funding for the village.
Return to Yangon
Following another arduous 2-hour cruise and a 3-hour taxi-ride, the team arrived in Yangon just in time to rid themselves of the rural dust that had accumulated during their ride and then board their flight back to Bangkok.
Despite the challenges, the team had realized many of its goals. Theresia Sinaga’s correspondence indicates her satisfaction with the mission in spite of the hardships.
She reports, “I was happy to meet people from other countries and to share in their experiences. I feel that I have been blessed to have made so many new friends that I made in the service of the Lord. As a missionary, I would like to invite and encourage others to give of their time in missionary service as well. As Jesus said, ‘Whatever you do to the least of my brothers (and sisters,) you do unto me.’ We should think about and pray concerning this message.”
Theresia Sinaga – CTF-SOS DRS Indonesian Coordinator
Susan M. Stefanski, Assistant Editor, CTF- SOS DRS Online Newsletter
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The Catholic Catechism teaches. . .
“All men are bound to seek the truth, especially in what concerns God and His Church, and to embrace and hold onto it as they have come to know it.” This duty derives from “the very dignity of the human person.” It does not contradict a “sincere respect” for different religions which frequently “reflect a ray of that truth which enlightens all men,” nor the requirement of charity, which urges Christians to treat with love, prudence and patience those who are in error or ignorance with regard to the faith. (Catechism of the Catholic Church – 2104) |
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
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CTF Thaïlande – Myanmar Mission 6
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
9-15 Mai 2009
Le double but pour lequel la Mission du CTF Myanmar Thaïlande a été fondée est d’une part pour travailler aux projets déjà existants en faveur des victimes du Cyclone Nargis dans la municipalité de Bogolay et d’autre part pour évaluer les résultats des projets accomplis. Trois nouvelles localités se sont ajoutées à la liste existante des villages soutenus et maintenus pas CTF Thaïlande et ses collaborateurs. Les participants de l’équipe des Camilliens incluaient: Pairat Sripraseret (Vice-Provincial des Camilliens en Thaïlande); Mlle. Marissa Khomin (Volontaire); and Mr. Myo Thein (Coordinateur Local à Myanmar).
Myanmar (Burma)
L’équipe a visité 6 localités : le Monastère de Pyisimaryone , le village de Kyane Lada Supérieur et le village de Kwin Chuang municipalité de Mawkyun ; le village de Ngwe Tang Yan , le village de Paun Tel Tract et le village d’ Oke Tube municipalité de Bogolay (cf. CTF Thailand – Myanmar Mission #1 – Part 1.)
585 patients ont reçu des soins médicaux. Les villageois ont également bénéficiés de riz, d’huile de cuisine et de médicaments.
Une aide financière a été donnée pour la continuation d’un projet de logement près du monastère de Pyisimaryone et pour la clinique médicale dans la région. La clinique de Ngwe Tang Yan et de Kyane Lada Supérieur a également bénéficié d’un soutien financier.
- Camillian Team with Abbot, Pyisimaryone; Upper Kyane Lada
La Mission du CTF Thaïlande a commencé le 9 Mai 2009 à Yangon lors d’une rencontre à un hotel avec Mr. U Maung Maung Soe Tint, Président de l’Association du Développement des Régions Limitrophes(BDA) et le fondateur de l’Initiative de la Société Civile (CSI), et avec Mlle. Daw Moe Moe Soe, Manager du Projet Moyen d’Existence.
Le rapport du progrès nous montre que les défis techniques et administratifs ont eu besoin de modifier les localités désignées auparavant pour le Projet Grande Mare. Le but de ce projet était de réhabiliter et de purifier les mares de la Région Delta afin que l’eau ait pu être utilisée pour la rendre buvable. Des 14 mares ciblés au début pour la réhabilitation, 11 ont été relocalisés à trois différentes municipalités [ils ont choisi des mares ciblés differents]. L’équipe s’est organisée pour visiter Kawmhu et Kungyangon où a commencé la réhabilitation des mares.
Les négotiations précédentes incluaitent la formation de deux cliniques leur réservant le fond d’une somme de 6.000 dollars americains. Les plans pour les cliniques de Thit Phyu Chaung and Delaye ont été renvoyés à plus tard à cause de la mort de l’Abbé.
Au lieu du programme précédent, le BDA a proposé le « Projet des Cliniques pour Village » afin de les 6 villages dans la Région Delta où le CTF Thaïlande sponsorise le Projet Grande Mare. Les décisions finales attendent l’approbation.
Les deux derniers jours de la mission furent réservés pour la rencontre entre l’équipe CTF et le BDA afin de discuter des plans futurs pour un programme de collaboration, la prochaine mission de juillet et les plans d’une éventuelle mission CTF en septembre.
- Kungyangon
Immédiatement après la discussion l’équipe CTF parti de Yangoon pour la ville de Mawkyun, où se sont joints une équipe de volontaires et du staff organisé par le BDA. Le staff de Volontaires Soins de Santé incluait : Dr. Wai Lwin, Dr. Wai Lynn Aung, Dr. Win Naing Oo, Mr. Min Ko Oo, Mr. Khun Thein Zaw Tun, Mlle. Ei Thantay Myint (Sandra) et Mlle. Yadano Phyo (Laura). En plus un nombre de membre de la communauté ont offert leur service pour d’autres fonctions missionnaires.
Les équipes ont voyagé en voiture et en bateau. Passant par des terrains accidentés et des routes non terminées, les équipes ont pris le bateau express pour Mawkyun où ont commencé les activités missionnaires. Pour se déplacer aux petits villages d’alentour il fallait souvent prendre de petites barques car on y navigue bien. Les défis du voyage incluaient les marées basses, la chaleur et les insectes.
L’équipe a passé ses nuits dans les villages, au Monastère de Pyisimaryone et à l’hotel quant à Yangon.
A Mawkyun, l’équipe s’est occupée des besoins médicaux de la Clinique Pyisimaryone, une facilité de soins soutenus par le CTF. Ensuite ils sont partis pour Kungyangon, municipalité de Kawmhu pour s’adresser au Projet Grandes Mares avec le staff BDA et l’ingénieur U Than Htay.
- Meeting in Kungyangon
Au village Ngwe Taung Yun, municipalité de Bogolay, l’Abbé et le Président de la Fondation St.Camille ont visité le projet de logement soutenu par le CTF et ses collaborateurs. Le projet consiste en 10 unités de maisons simples. L’inspection précédente 4 unités des maisons avaient été terminées. L’équipe a visité le reste des maisons à compléter. Cinq de ces nouvelles demeures logeaient des familles de quatre, six, trois, quatre et quatre personnes. Les autres nouvelles structures seront occupées par Madame Daw Lone Tin et sa fille Mlle. Lay.
Toutes ces maisons sont situées à distance d’un kilomètre du Monastère. Une seule maison est un peu plus loin des autres, demandant 10 minutes de voyage en bateau. Tous les membres des familles étaient ravis et reconnaissants pour le soutiens et les logements qu’ils ont reçus.
Au village de Kwin Chaung, municipalité de Kwin Chaung, un des nouveaux sites ajouté à la route de la Mission CTF, l’équipe s’est concentrée sur le manque de service médical aux alentours. Le village est constitué de 8oo habitants (300 familles). Le village maintient le comité du village de 16 personnes et en plus 6 moines et 11 novices à devoir soutenir. L’Abbé Responsable du Monastère de Pyisimaryone avait soutenu la construction d’une école importante de (300m x 800 m.), aidé par APEF (Fondation Asiatique de Paix et Education).
L’Abbé du Monastère de Kwin Chaung avait fait la demande par l’intermédiaire de l’Abbé Responsable du Monastère de Pyisimaryone, à la Fondation St.Camille pour assister à la fondation et au soutien d’une petite clinique dans la communauté.
- Le reservoir Paun Tel Village
Le 12 mai 2009, s’est tenu une réunion ayant pour but de joindre les efforts de collaboration. A remarqué étaient présent les personnes décisives : U Cin Tita Likara (Abbé Responsable, Monastère de Pyisimaryone); U Kari Ya Winta (Abbé du Monastère de Kwin Chaung); Pairat Sriprasert (Président, Fondation St. Camille Thaïlande); Myo Thien (coordinateur local); Marissa Khomin (Fondation St. Camille Thaïlande).
La Fondation St. Camille Thaïlande a consenti à pourvoir à la fondation d’une clinique de base au village de Kwin Chaung , qui sera tenu sous l’immédiate surveillance des Abbés U Kari Yan and U Cin Tita Likara. Ceci inclut la construction de la clinique sur un terrain donné par le gouvernement local et les fonds d’une somme de 1.500 US dollars pour les dépenses associées à l’érection de la clinique, et également les dépenses d’un mois. Ensuite la Fondation St. Camille pourvoira chaque mois à la somme de 500 US dollars jusqu’à décembre 2009. Avant le complètement de la construction, des services médicaux seront donnés pour les facilités du monastère local.
- Tel Chuan Village
Comme dans les négociations précédentes l’Abbé en Chef s’occupera du personnel médical et du staff qui travaillera en clinique. L’abbé en Chef soumettra un rapport trimestriel à la Fondation St. Camille. Le Monastère de Pyisimaryone coordonnera et évaluera périodiquement les opérations ensemble avec la Fondation St. Camille.
En plus des autres services des outils d’agriculture ont été fournis à 100 familles du village de Kwin Chaung .
Au village de Ngwe Tang Yan Village, municipalité de Bogolay , Longgi, un type de vêtement porté traditionnellement durant la saison des pluies a été donné à chacune des 148 familles, un set par famille.
Suivant son programme l’équipe est revenue à Yangon le 14 mai repartant le jour suivant pour Bangkok.
L’équipe des participants a été vraiment inspirée par la réception et la gratitude qu’elle a reçue des villageois pour leur service, les provisions et le logement donné. De même, la promesse du succès des plans futurs et du progrès réalisé dans le contexte des réunions, ont encouragé et donné de l’espoir à tous les participants.
Traduit par Gervais Dubé (Canada)
Table of Contents – Summer-Fall 2009 – CTF-SOS DRS Newsletter
Read Full Post | Make a Comment ( None so far )Cyclone Nargis 2 – CTF Thailand and CTF Indonesia Collaborate: Myanmar Mission #2 – Part 1
CTF Thailand and CTF Indonesia
Preparation for the Joint Mission to Chiang Rai, Thailand
Cyclone Nargis and its effects
Our previous newsletters depict the intervention of CTF Thailand, headed by Fr. Rocco Pairat Sriprasert (vice-provincial of the Thai vice-province), and Fr. Dominic Akrapan Nunthananawich (Director of the Camillian Hospital in Bangkok.) In October of 2008, CTF Thailand went into Myanmar in an attempt to minimize the effects of the catastrophe by providing aid to those affected.
Prior to the catastrophe, mangrove forests had already been substantially dissipated by clearing, charcoal mining, shrimp farming and rice cultivation. Authorities report that few seedlings are available with which to reforest the sparse groves. Many residents of Myanmar are dependent upon the mangrove forests and the resources within for their subsistence Mangrove forests normally provide a barrier of resistance against storm surge; their destruction leaves tropical shorelines defenseless against inclement tides in the event of a future storm. The restoration of the mangrove forests is expected to require at least five years, according to U Ohn, general secretary of the Forest Resource Environment Development and Conservation Association (FREDA), a semi-official NGO formed by retired personnel from the Forest Department of the Ministry of Forestry. In the meantime, the ability of the population to sustain itself will remain inhibited; residents of Myanmar will require continuing aid from the government or other organizations (See Shortage of seedlings holds back mangrove recovery.)
Cyclone Nargis’ ferocious tides also liquidated 24,214 MT of freshly-mined raw salt, according to the New Light of Myanmar, a publication monitored by the Myanmar government. Eight out of ten geographically vulnerable salt mine workers lost their lives to Nargis, the most damaging storm in the recorded history of Myanmar. The remaining laborers are insufficient to accommodate the needs of the mine owners, who also face the challenge of restoring damaged buildings and equipment. Thirty-five thousand salt farms experienced tragic monetary losses (See Salt farmers battling to rebuild livelihoods.
Preparation for Mission #2
Despite the success of CTF Thailand Myanmar Mission #1 and other organizations helping the people affected by Cyclone Nargis, the reality remained that the medical, material and spiritual needs of the Myanmarian population had become temporarily insatiable. The entire population entered into a period of mourning. Many had lost family members and friends. Emotions and homes were ravaged; food and water supplies obliterated; and livelihoods encumbered by the effacement of natural resources, supplies and equipment. Aside from the spirit of solidarity, little consolation was available, as the entire population was experiencing synonymous misfortunes.
Thus, the Camillian Task Force/SOS DRS, recognizing the needs of the people for continuing support, collaborated with the Camillians in Thailand, Salute e Sviluppo, and the Border Area Development Association, to organize a second missionary effort for the purpose of monitoring and enhancing programs implemented during the first mission. The emphaisis of the mission team was the provision of medical support for the affected victims. The mission was scheduled for November 27 through December 3, 2008.
Despite his commitments in the United States, Fr. Scott Binet sincerely desired to accompany the other Camillian staff and volunteers on the mission, and he began making preparations to do so. Touched by the suffering of the Myanmarian people and the possibilities of the growth of the CTF in the afflicted area, Fr. Scott examined the possibilities of obtaining an extended visa. As preparations progressed, however, it became evident that the integration of the mission into his schedule would detract from his obligations in the United States as the President of CTF/SOS DRS. In the best interest of the Task Force, Fr. Scott opted to remain in the United States. In lieu of his presence, the CTF/SOS DRS chose instead to provide significant funding for the mission.
Fortunately, Fr. Scott was able to persuade Theresia Sinaga (CTF/SOS DRS Indonesian Coordinator, (CTF/SOS DRS (Servants of Saint Camillus Disaster Relief Services to agree to accompany the team. Theresia Sinaga was immensely grateful for the opportunity and prayerfully began to make preparations for the journey.
Other proposed participants included Fr. Rocco Pairat Sriprasert, Mr. Myo Thein (Local Coordinator in Myanmar) and Ms. Marissa Khomin, a volunteer.The Camillian medical team from Thailand was unavailable at the time, unfortunately, due to other commitments in the Southern region of Thailand. The Virtue of Patience was truly required to address the human resources challenges presented necessary to choreograph the mission successfully.
On November 16, Theresia Sinaga arrived in Bangkok. She spent her first night in an apartment at St. Camillus Hospital. The following day, she attended the 6:30 a.m. mass in the St. Camillus Hospital Chapel. Subsequently, Theresia met with Marissa Khomin. Eagerly awaiting clearance to depart for Myanmar, Theresia found opportunities to utilize her talents and desire to serve others in the name of Christ.
In our next communication regarding the CTF response to Cyclone Nargis, we will provide further details about the experiences of the Camillian team and their good works performed in the name of Christ through Mary in Chiang Rai, Thailand. Stay tuned for Myanmar Mission #2 (Part 2.)
May Christ Bless you for your prayers and for your support.
The Catholic Catechism teaches. . .
(2440) Direct Aid is an appropriate response to immediate, extraordinary needs caused by natural catastrophes, epidemics, and the like. But it does not suffice to repair the grave damage resulting from destitution or to provide a lasting solution to a country’s needs. . . .
(2442) Social action can assume various concrete forms. It should always have the common good in view and be in conformity with the message of the Gospel and the teaching of the Church. It is the role of the laity “to animate temporal realities with Christian commitment, by which they show that they are witnesses and agents of peace and justice” (U.S. Catholic Church. Catechism of the Catholic Church (1997). New York: Doubleday, p. 646.)
Authored by: Theresia Sinaga, CTF/SOS DRS Indonesian Coordinator &
Susan M. Stefanski, Assistant Editor, CTF/SOS DRS Online Newsletter
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