On July 16, 2025, at 8:00 AM, in Mayanchaung, Pathein, the opening ceremony for a significant Community Development (CD) training course commenced, an initiative spearheaded by National Caritas Myanmar.

His Excellency Bishop Henry Eikhlein warmly received the assembly, 23 individuals present in person, joined by one dedicated participant connecting online.

They represented a tapestry of commitment from across Myanmar: Lashio, Taungngu, Mandalay, Myitkyina, Kalay, Hakha, Mindat, Taunggyi, Phekon, Loikaw, Pathein, and the Episcopal Commission for OSC Lashio and National Youth. Pyay Diocese, though physically distant, added its presence through the digital connection.

Bishop Eikhlein set the profound tone for the gathering during the opening Mass. His homily, drawn from the Book of Exodus (3:2-6,9-12), centered on the essence of Vocation and Mission.

He recounted the story of Moses at the burning bush – an ordinary shepherd confronted by an extraordinary call.

“Moses saw the impossible, heard the divine voice, and received a daunting mission: to liberate God’s people,” the Bishop reflected.

“His fear, ‘How can I? The mission is too heavy!’ was met with God’s unwavering assurance: ‘I will be with you.'”

“This,” Bishop Eikhlein emphasized, his voice resonating in the chapel, “is the pattern of God’s call.

He calls, He gives a mission, and He gives His promise: ‘I am with you.’ Jesus sent His disciples with the same assurance, charging them with the Church’s mission: proclamation, celebration, and service. Caritas is that service. You are here to learn how to serve God’s people, joining 160 Caritas nations worldwide. Remember, God is with us.”

Turning to the Gospel of St. Matthew, the Bishop spoke of Revealing the Secret.

“God reveals hidden truths to the humble,” he said, referencing the disciples on the road to Emmaus.

“Their hearts burned as Jesus explained the Scriptures, yet their eyes were only opened at the breaking of the bread. We, too, need God to open our understanding, to send His Holy Spirit, as He did at Pentecost, filling the apostles with courage to proclaim the Good News. For this course, we pray: Jesus, teach us, guide us, open us. Holy Spirit, enlighten our minds and hearts. Without your guidance, our efforts falter.”

He reminded them of Caritas Myanmar’s upcoming Silver Jubilee in 2026, a milestone achieved by grace and Spirit, urging them to maintain spiritual zeal alongside physical presence.

Following the spiritually nourishing Mass, the formal opening ceremony commenced, led by Saya Min Han Htoo.

Caritas Pathein lifted their voices in an opening song. Bishop Eikhlein then delivered his opening remarks.

“It is with deep gratitude to God that we gather here in Mayanchaung,” he began. “I am proud that Pathein Diocese can host this vital training. We remember the practical learning forged in disaster areas back in 2008. My thanks extend to Saya James and Saya Claudia for meticulously arranging this course.”

He highlighted the significance of Caritas: “Being part of Caritas is a gift of God to the Church in Myanmar. Representing 160 nations within Caritas Internationalis, we stand in a global mission.”

His words carried weight as he addressed the participants directly: “Caritas is not merely an NGO; it is a Mission, a Vocation. It is preaching through action – through your deeds, your attitude, your very disposition. You become witnesses.”

Monsignor Pius Win Than echoed this sentiment, reinforcing that “Caritas is the Church, and the Church is Mission,” recalling Pope Francis’s words: “The Church without charity does not exist.”

He spoke of Caritas’s dual dimensions: tangible action and the divine dimension of sharing and witnessing.

Father Peter Myat Thu Ya added a personal touch, welcoming everyone warmly and sharing encouraging insights drawn from his own life experiences in service.

Finally, Saya James, the National Director, took the floor. “Though you’ve stepped away from your regular duties, this is a precious time of learning for your mission,” he encouraged.

“The readings today are profoundly relevant. Like Moses, God calls you and entrusts you with a mission. Embrace this time. Ask questions freely, seek understanding. May your journey be filled with happiness and success in your service.”

As the ceremony drew towards its close, voices united once more, singing the hopeful anthem, “We Are All United.”

At precisely 10:00 AM, Bishop Henry Eikhlein bestowed his blessing upon the participants and their undertaking.

The shared commitment and newfound fellowship were captured in a group photograph – a moment marking the official beginning of a journey dedicated to community, development, and faithful service across Myanmar.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service