The Servite Sisters of Mary (Mother of Sorrows, Servants of Mary OSM) celebrated a rare gathering of grace on Thursday as one sister marked 50 years of religious life, and seven others celebrated 25 years in a joyful Jubilee Mass at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Yangon.

The January 8 celebration honored Sr. Antonia Mary MSSM for her Golden Jubilee and seven sisters for their Silver Jubilees: Sr. Pathi Mary, Sr. Pancras Mary, Sr. Lily Ann Mary, Sr. Rosaline Mary, Sr. Savarie Mary, Sr. Lourthu Rani Mary, and Sr. Mara Xavier MSSM.

Bishop Raymond Wai Lin Htun presided over the Mass, attended by numerous priests, religious, family members, and parishioners. In his homily, he reflected on the profound witness of long-term commitment. Noting that Sr. Antonia’s five decades of consecrated life exceeded his own age, he praised the sisters’ perseverance through challenges.

“Honoring those who are worthy of honor is a form of goodness,” the bishop said, highlighting their service in cities, towns, and remote villages as a sign of “God’s abundant grace at work.”

He framed the jubilee as a time for thanksgiving, reconciliation, and renewal, emphasizing that in an age where sustained commitment is difficult, the sisters stand as living proof that lifelong dedication is possible.

Sr. Savarie Mary delivered a word of thanks on behalf of the jubilarians, expressing gratitude to God, their parents, formators, and the broader church community for supporting their vocations.

A greeting from the Mother General, Sr. Decla Mary MSSM, was read, entrusting the sisters to the guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The celebration particularly highlighted the life of Sr. Antonia Mary. Born in 1952, she joined the novitiate in 1973. After a period of vocational uncertainty, a profound spiritual experience involving the Virgin Mary strengthened her calling. For over 50 years, she has served in numerous missions, known for her joyful spirit and dedication to the poor, the sick, and pastoral outreach.

The jubilee concluded with a grand shared lunch, a fitting end to a day of gratitude for lives wholeheartedly given to faith and service.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service