VATICAN CITY (UCAN) -- Pope John Paul told visiting Myanmar bishops that he understands the sufferings of Catholics in the country.

When the Myanmar bishops visited the Vatican, the Holy Father acknowledged "the joys and sorrows, hopes and disappointments" of the people they serve.

As successors of the Apostles, every five years bishops go on "ad limina" visit to Saint Peter's tomb in Rome. This includes a visit with the pope and reporting to the various departments of the Vatican.

The pope said he recognizes "limits placed on fundamental rights and freedoms" and also "the widespread poverty" of the country, "despite the abundant resources of the land." The country is currently ruled by a military-led State Peace and Development Council.

He also mentioned that difficulties have been aggravated by isolation, which in the era of globalization and complex interaction among nations, becomes all the more harmful.

However, the pope commended Myanmar's "reassuring number of vocations to both the priestly and consecrated life, coupled with peoples' devotion and enthusiasm."

He urged the bishops to provide proper training for Catholics at every level, "especially for your priests" who are the key to success in the future of the Church in Myanmar.

Catechists also deserve special attention, he said, as they play an indispensable role in transmitting the faith and sustaining the vigor of communities.

The Holy Father also asked the bishops to take "initiatives to provide spiritual, intellectual and pastoral training, including formation in the Church's social teaching."

Myanmar has 580,000 Catholics. The vast majority of the country's 42 million population are Buddhists. A sizable Islamic community also exists.

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