More than 70 former seminarians from three dioceses of Myitkyina, Lashio and Banmaw gathered at St. Luke’s College in Edin, Myitkyina, for the 32nd Retreat and Discussion Meeting of the Society of Alumina Seminarians (JJU). The two-day retreat was held on November 6-7, 2026.

The JJU community was founded on November 23, 1978, by the late Archbishop Emeritus Paul Zinghtung Grawng (then Bishop Paul Zinghtung Grawng), Fr. Selvant, Fr. Paul Lasang La, Fr. Peter Malang Nawng Maw, and other alumni members. Its purpose was to help and support the Church.

Over the past 48 years, JJU has been visiting seminarians and priests, the sick, minor seminaries, and Pre-Major Seminaries. The group has also published the Manap Jan Pru (Sunrise) Magazine to support the faith. JJU members have taken part in major Church events, including bishop’s ordinations, priestly ordinations, Jubilee celebrations, and funeral celebrations for bishops and priests.

The retreat aimed to strengthen former seminarians physically and spiritually for the future. It also gave them a chance to gain spiritual strength and renew their commitment to the Church.

This year’s meeting focused on preparations for the 50th Anniversary of JJU in 2028 and the needs of the community. The purpose of the Jubilee is thanksgiving, reconciliation, and a special Mass for deceased bishops, priests, and former seminarians.

Former Rector of the St. Columban Minor Seminary, Fr. Leo Gopal, offered advice at the retreat a scholarship program to study abroad.

JJU President Thomas Nwawt Mung Dan invited all former seminarians to attend the 50th Anniversary celebration. The Jubilee is open to all ex-seminarians who have attended the seminary, as well as bishops and priests.

The retreat served as a time of renewal and fellowship for the JJU community. Participants shared stories, prayed together, and discussed ways to continue supporting the Church in Kachin State.

As JJU looks ahead to its 50th year, the retreat reminded members of their shared history and their calling to serve. The gathering concluded with hope and commitment to the mission that began nearly five decades ago.

All former seminarians are invited to join the 50th Anniversary celebration in 2028, a milestone that will honor the past and look forward to the future of JJU and the Church in Kachin State.

By RVA Jinghpaw Service