Myanmar Bishop Confirms 164 on Feast of St. Don Bosco, Warns Against ‘Educated Monsters’
Bishop John Mung Ngawn La Sam administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 164 faithful at St. Michael Parish in Myitkyina on January 31, the feast day of the parish’s patron, St. Don Bosco.
The confirmands ranged from children to the elderly, all receiving the sacrament during a Mass that emphasized moral integrity and truthfulness. In his homily, Bishop John of Myitkyina Diocese urged the congregation to follow the example of St. Don Bosco, who guided youth “with love rather than punishment.”
He stressed the critical need for moral formation from a young age, cautioning that without it, society risks creating “educated monsters.” The bishop also called on the faithful to reject a culture of falsehood, even when lying might seem expedient. “It is more important to speak what is truly good than to be merely eloquent,” he said.
The parish itself embodies the Salesian saint’s spirit. Established three years ago when it was separated from Myitkyina Parish and entrusted to Salesian priests, St. Michael’s has long been home to a vocational training school. Founded even before the parish was officially created, the school offers two-year programs in mechanics, carpentry, and auto repair for boys, and sewing for girls.
“We teach here not only professional skills, but also faith, hope, and love,” said Fr. Joseph La Htoi, Assistant Salesian Priest at the parish. He noted that the 60-80 students who attend annually, some of whom are not Catholic, leave with both job skills and a foundation in Christian values.
Currently served by four Salesian priests, St. Michael Parish comprises over 200 Catholic households. The vocational school continues to operate alongside pastoral duties, with over 50 students enrolled this academic year.
Following the Mass, nearly 1,000 people, including 14 priests, shared a grand lunch and participated in social games honoring St. Don Bosco—a fittingly joyful conclusion to a day that celebrated spiritual strengthening and the practical, values-driven education championed by the parish’s patron saint.
By RVA Lisu Service
