More than one hundred priests of the Archdiocese of Yangon gathered at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Holy Thursday morning, April 2, to celebrate the Chrism Mass and renew their priestly vows before His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo of the Yangon Archdiocese.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration began at 7:00 a.m., highlighting the unity of the clergy and the blessing of the holy oils used throughout the year in sacramental life.

‘This Is Your Day’

In his homily, the Myanmar Cardinal greeted the bishops and priests, saying, “Happy Feast. This is your day.”

He emphasized that the Chrism Mass is a powerful sign of unity within the Church. Reflecting on the importance of communion, he reminded the faithful that no one is meant to serve alone.

“Priest needs priest. Bishop needs priests. Religious need the laity, and the laity need the priests,” he said. “When we walk together, we find strength. When we isolate ourselves, we feel loneliness and discouragement.”

The Cardinal highlighted that unity is especially vital for Myanmar at this time, as the country continues to face suffering, division, and instability.

The Anointing and the Oils

Referring to the Gospel of Luke, Cardinal Bo recalled Jesus’ proclamation: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because I was anointed.”

He explained that all the faithful share in this anointing through Baptism, Confirmation, and, for priests, Holy Orders. The holy oils—Oil of Catechumens, Oil of the Sick, and Sacred Chrism—serve as visible signs of healing, hope, and unity.

“These oils remind us that our identity is not division but holiness and unity,” he said.

Addressing the priests, Cardinal Bo invited them to renew their vows with renewed fervor, not as a mere tradition but as a return to their “first love.”

“We are called not for authority, but for responsibility,” he said. “Not for personal gain, but for the good of all.”

He also urged the faithful to pray for their priests, acknowledging the heavy responsibilities they carry.

Witnesses of Peace

The Cardinal called on all believers to be witnesses of peace and reconciliation in their daily lives.

“We are not spectators but active participants in the mission of the Church,” he said. “We are called to be salt and light in our families, workplaces, and communities.”

He noted that the blessed oils would be brought to remote and difficult areas, reminding the faithful that God never forgets His people.

Following the homily, priests renewed their commitment to priestly service, pledging to faithfully celebrate the sacraments and serve the people entrusted to them.

Papal Representative’s Message

Msgr. Andrea Ferrante, Papal Representative to Myanmar, expressed gratitude for the gift of priesthood and encouraged continued unity and collaboration.

Echoing the teachings of Pope Leo XIV, he stressed the importance of synodality, fraternity, and peace.

“Fraternity is not merely a human effort, but a gift of grace,” he said. “We are called to work together in communion, especially in these difficult times.”

He urged prayers for priests serving in challenging areas, the elderly and sick, those experiencing crises, and those imprisoned, while also encouraging young people to respond generously to God’s call.

Msgr. Ferrante emphasized the Pope’s call to become builders of peace and dialogue in a world marked by conflict.

“Violence and war bring only death and destruction,” he said. “Christ reveals the gentle face of God who rejects violence.”

He concluded by entrusting all priests and faithful to the Blessed Virgin Mary as a model of unity, service, and hope.

Before the final blessing, the congregation was invited to pray for two critically ill priests currently receiving medical care.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service