Christianity made its way to Burma (Myanmar) through the ministry efforts of the Nestorians in the 10th century. Other Christian traditions followed. The 30,000 members of the Presbyterian Church of Myanmar (PCM) celebrated the denomination’s fiftieth anniversary in 2006. The seeds of the Reformed faith were sown by Christians who were part of the Presbyterian Church of Mizoram, India. Burmese Christians formed the Presbyterian Church of Burma shortly thereafter. The American Presbyterian relationship with the PCM began in the 1970s. The PC(USA) seeks to affirm the self-reliance of the PCM and to help strengthen its life and mission.

Prayer

Lord, we give thanks for the witness of all those who have shared the faith in places like Burma and still share your love today. Amen.

Malaysia

Malaysia’s population comprises indigenous Malays who are primarily Muslim, indigenous faith groups from Borneo, and ethnic Chinese who generally follow Christianity or folk religion. Freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution but not always upheld. The small Christian community struggles to live out its faith in this environment. Most members of the Presbyterian Church of Malaysia, the PC(USA)’s partner, are ethnic Chinese. The small church community supports the interdenominational Malaysia Theological Seminary and the Malaysia Bible Seminary.

Partners/Ministries
The Presbyterian Church of Myanmar (PCM): Rev. Khaw Ro Mang, moderator • Myanmar Council of Churches: Rev. Saw Mar Gay Gyi, president, Archbishop Samuel San Si Htay, vice president • Tahan Theological College: Rev. Lalthangvunga, principal • Myanmar Institute of Theology: Anna May Say Pa, principal • Presbyterian Church of Malaysia: Rt. Rev. Kong chi Hai, moderator, Elder Andrew Siew, executive secretary

PC(USA) General Assembly Staff
Rev. Steven Fleming, BOP
Julie A. Florence, GAC
Rev. William Forbes, BOP