Approximately 250 religious brothers and sisters from across the Archdiocese of Mandalay gathered on Sunday to celebrate the World Day for Consecrated Life, a global observance honoring those who have dedicated their lives to religious vows.

The event was held on February 2 at St. Padre Pio Church in Sin Lan Village, coinciding with the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas.

The day began with spiritual preparations, including reflection, Eucharistic Adoration, and the traditional blessing of candles. The main celebration was a Holy Mass presided over by Fr. Bosco Zeya Aung (SDB), Superior of the Salesian Vice-Province of Myanmar.

In his homily, Fr. Bosco emphasized the need for integrity between prayer and action. “When we are zealous to preach God’s Word, we must first preach to ourselves and strive to live that Word in our own lives before sharing it with others,” he told the congregation. He urged a return to the Gospel as the foundation for living the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.

For the attendees, the day was a valuable opportunity for communal support and self-reflection. “Meeting and praying with members of different congregations strengthens our bonds and helps us support one another,” said Sr. Regina Khaing (SJA).

Fr. David Yan Naing (SDB) compared the diverse religious orders to a “garden of diverse flowers,” each serving the Church in unique ways.

The World Day for Consecrated Life was established by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1997. It is celebrated on February 2 to align with the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, symbolizing how consecrated persons are called to reflect Christ’s light through their lives of service.

The day aims to thank God for the gift of religious life, promote understanding of it among the laity, and allow religious to renew their commitments.

By RVA Myanmar Service