Two seminarians were ordained to the diaconate during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral on April 8, with His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon Archdiocese conferring the order.

The 7:00 a.m. Mass marked a significant step for John Paul Nicholas Thant Zin Naing and Noel Paul Raj Thet Paing Soe, who have completed their philosophical and theological formation in seminaries across Myanmar.

During the rite, the two candidates professed vows of chastity and obedience. They were entrusted with proclaiming the Word of God and assisting bishops and priests in liturgical and pastoral services.

Family Backgrounds

Deacon John Paul Nicholas Thant Zin Naing is the son of U A. J. Nicholas and Veronica Nicholas from St. Jude Parish in Yankin Township. Deacon Noel Paul Raj Thet Paing Soe is the son of U K. S. Selvaraj and Arokiamary from St. Sebastian Parish in Daydaye Town.

Homily: A Call to Faithfulness

In his homily, Cardinal Bo expressed gratitude to God for the gift of the two new deacons. He acknowledged the parents, formators, and educators who guided them in their vocational journey.

The Cardinal highlighted the generosity of Deacon Noel’s family, noting that several of his siblings have dedicated their lives to the Church. He also thanked the family members of Deacon John Paul, who traveled from abroad to attend the celebration.

The Cardinal reminded the faithful that priestly life requires continuous prayer and perseverance. He shared that even after ordination, the need for prayer increases as responsibilities grow.

Celibacy, Prayer, and Service

Reflecting on the meaning of the diaconate, the Cardinal emphasized three essential aspects of the ministry: celibacy, prayer, and service.

He described celibacy as a “gift of love,” a sign of total dedication to Christ and the people. He encouraged the deacons to embrace it joyfully as a witness of God’s Kingdom and a life of universal love, especially for the poor and marginalized.

He also underlined the importance of prayer, particularly the Liturgy of the Hours, calling it “the breath of life.” Faithful prayer unites them with the whole Church and sustains their ministry even in moments of difficulty and fatigue.

Cardinal Bo further called the newly ordained to model their lives on Christ the Servant, marked by humility, obedience, and sacrificial love. He urged them to proclaim the Gospel, serve at the altar, and carry out their responsibilities with compassion and dedication.

He also invited the faithful to support the deacons through prayer and encouragement so that they may remain faithful and joyful in their vocation.

Words of Gratitude

In their message of thanks, the newly ordained deacons expressed deep gratitude to the Holy Trinity for their vocation and to Cardinal Bo for ordaining them.

They also thanked bishops, priests, religious, family members, benefactors, and all the faithful who supported them throughout their formation. Special appreciation was extended to seminary formators, parish communities, and those who contributed to the successful celebration, including media teams and volunteers.

The deacons concluded by asking for continued prayers as they prepare for their future priestly ministry.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service