A 30-member delegation from Myanmar finalized preparations for the Asian Mission Congress 2025 during an orientation meeting at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar (CBCM) on Tuesday, November 25.

The diverse delegation, including 6 bishops, 6 priests, 6 religious sisters, 6 laymen, and 6 lay women—with His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo, the President of CBCM, among the participating bishops, will depart for Penang, Malaysia, to join the regional gathering themed “The Great Pilgrimage of Hope.”

The afternoon meeting served as a strategic launchpad, where delegates were briefed on the congress program and divided into smaller discussion groups based on their chosen topics. Adding a touch of home, the group plans to perform a traditional Water Festival (Thingyan) cultural dance during the event’s cultural night.

To ensure coordinated communication, one delegate was appointed as the official media spokesperson. Participants were also tasked with submitting post-event reports to the CBCM within a week of their return, a move that highlights the intention to bring the congress’s lessons back to local dioceses.

The delegates shared their hopes for the congress, emphasizing its relevance to Myanmar’s unique context. Bishop Peter Tin Wai of Pyay Diocese noted the importance for a “multi-cultural and multi-religious society.”

“We will reflect on how the Church can evangelize in such a society,” he said. “Through exchanging viewpoints, we hope to strengthen coexistence and mutual respect.”

The delegation’s lay members bring specific personal goals. Cecilia Si Si Win, President of the Yangon Archdiocese Women’s Association, shared that after initial hesitation, she accepted the invitation with encouragement from her spiritual guide. She will focus on sessions about feminine genius and gender identity.

“I prayed to the Holy Spirit to guide me so I can contribute something beneficial for all women,” she said.

Bishop Maurice Nyunt Wai of Mawlamyine Diocese expressed his hope that the congress would strengthen the spirit of synodality—walking together—within the Church.

CBCM Executive Secretary Fr. Dominic Savio Thang Suan Lang framed the journey as more than just a conference. He described it as a “fruitful pilgrimage” where Church members from across Asia will gather to share experiences for the benefit of their home communities.

Bishop Noel Saw Naw Aye also encouraged local media partners to follow the event closely and share updates widely on websites and social media platforms.

The Asian Mission Congress 2025 will be held from November 27 to 30, featuring seminars on a range of topics, including digital media and youth engagement to integral ecology, all aimed at deepening the evangelization mission across the continent.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service