Shan State Baptist Theological Seminary, Taunggyi: The Climate Change program is one of the Inter-departmental initiatives of the Mission and Ecumenism Department and the Service and Development Department. The one-day event, scheduled for 22 August 2025, under the theme “Climate Change,” gathered over 140 seminary students, staff, and faculty members from Shan State Baptist Theological Seminary, Taunggyi.
In a message presented at the event’s opening, Rev. Dr. Simon Vanlalchhuanga, Executive Secretary of the Mission and Ecumenism Department, stated, “Engaging in environmental care is one of the essential missions for the current situation in Myanmar, particularly in Taunggyi, Shan State, as the renowned Inle Lake has experienced a decline in water levels in recent years. Therefore, let us unite in our efforts for environmental care, not only through learning but also in practical applications. As pastors and preachers in the church, let us prepare sermons that address nature and environmental care, as we believe God has created this world.”
One of the resource persons, Rev. Dr. Joel Za Hlei Kap, the Principal of Chin Christian Institute of Theology, remarked, “The church must prioritize environmental care more than ever. The church should serve as a voice for the voiceless.”
The event was attended by Rev. Dr. M Khaw Thein, the Principal of Shan Baptist Theological Seminary, along with all faculty members, who noted, “In our seminary, we have a special lecture day, and this year’s lecture day has been immensely beneficial for us. It will be fruitful for the seminarians as they prepare to serve the Lord in their respective communities across the country.”
Another resource person, Rev. Kyaw Hla (URM, MCC), states, “Environmental care is a vital mission for Myanmar churches, as our country is becoming increasingly warmer. Let us join hands to engage in environmental care in every way we can. Furthermore, as a pastor, let us cherish nature.”
In this program, we conducted a group discussion, during which one group referenced Rev. Kyaw Hla, stating, “Even a small seed can grow into a forest; particularly in rural areas, we must undertake numerous initiatives such as awareness programs for environmental care.”
The Mission and Ecumenism Department is dedicated to supporting churches in Myanmar in their ecumenical formation, fostering unity in missions, promoting environmental care, advancing eco-theology, and facilitating interfaith dialogue to encourage harmonious and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths in Myanmar.
