As the nation observed the traditional Thingyan Water Festival, the Archdiocese of Mandalay’s Verbum Domini (Word of God) group convened a major spiritual formation program to deepen the sacramental life of the Catholic faithful.

The five-day seminar, titled “A Life of Faith Rooted in the Holy Eucharist,” was held from April 13 to 17 at St. Aloysius Catholic Minor Seminary in the scenic hill station of Pyin Oo Lwin. The event combined intensive biblical study with communal praise and worship, drawing participants from both the Mandalay and Yangon Archdioceses.

A Multigenerational Approach to Faith

In a departure from traditional age-segregated retreats, the program welcomed a diverse demographic, ranging from young children to the elderly. Rev. Fr. Augustine Win Myint led the coordination of the event, which featured prominent guest speakers, including Bishop Francis Than Htun and Rev. Fr. Marcian Thet Kyaw from the Yangon Archdiocese.

During his keynote address, Bishop Francis emphasized the necessity of a “spiritual hunger” for the Word of God as a prerequisite for understanding the liturgy.

“Sometimes, we Catholics fail to grasp the profound depth of the Holy Mass because we do not sufficiently hunger for God’s Word,” the Bishop stated. “The essence of this gathering is to foster a deeper understanding of the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Our faith must not only be preserved but must grow actively under the guidance of the Church’s teachings.”

Healing and Unity

For many attendees, the training served as a spiritual sanctuary during the noisy public holidays. Participants expressed that the inclusive nature of the event fostered a unique sense of community.

“In many dioceses, we see separate camps for youth or adults. Seeing all generations praising God together here in Mandalay is a powerful witness,” said Bosco Yan Naing Soe, a worship leader from Yangon.

Lucia, a parishioner from St. Peter and St. Paul Church in Yangon, noted the personal impact of the teachings. “I came here to find healing for inner wounds and to hear the Word of God. Deepening my knowledge of the Sacraments has made these five days truly beneficial for my life,” she said.

Strengthening the Sacramental Bond

The Verbum Domini group’s initiative reflects a broader effort within the Myanmar Church to move beyond “routine” worship toward a more “integral” faith experience. By integrating the charismatic elements of praise and worship with the traditional gravity of the Sacraments, organizers hope to equip the laity with a resilient faith capable of navigating contemporary challenges.

The seminar concluded with a renewed call for the faithful to live out the “Eucharistic life” in their daily interactions, transforming the knowledge gained in the classroom into active service within their respective parishes.

By RVA Myanmar Service