His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon Archdiocese celebrated his 50th priestly ordination Golden Jubilee on April 25, joined by six brothers of the Missionaries of St. Paul (MSP) who made their first religious profession in a solemn Eucharist at Myatto, in Pathein.

The 6:30 a.m. Mass drew numerous priests, religious, and lay faithful. The occasion held special significance as Cardinal Bo is the founder of the Missionaries of St. Paul Fathers and Brothers, as well as the Missionary Sisters of St. Paul.

Six Brothers Profess First Vows

The candidates who professed their first vows came from five dioceses: Brother Raymond Saw Sa Gae Htoo (Yangon), Brother Lawrence Naw Kham (Lashio), Brother Steven Ja Seng Dwe (Bhamo), Brother John (Pyay), Brother Anthony Ain Aung (Pyay), and Brother Charles Hou Khaung (Lashio).

‘A Day of Grace’

In his homily, Cardinal Bo described the occasion as “a day of grace,” emphasizing that the newly professed brothers had responded to God’s personal call to holiness.

“You did not choose this vocation—God has chosen you,” he said, echoing the Gospel reminder that “the harvest is rich, but the laborers are few.”

Reflecting on the religious habit, the Cardinal explained that “putting on the robe is putting on Christ.” It is a visible sign of belonging to Christ and a commitment to simplicity, humility, and total dedication to God.

Quoting St. Paul, he reminded the brothers: “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.”

Evangelical Counsels as Freedom

He described poverty, chastity, and obedience not as limitations but as a path to authentic freedom. Poverty expresses complete reliance on God; chastity opens the heart to love all people; and obedience conforms one’s life to God’s will.

Called to Be Instruments of Peace

Cardinal Bo called the brothers to embody the missionary zeal of St. Paul: “Let your hearts burn for God. Wherever you go, proclaim the Good News. Be courageous in difficulties, patient in trials, joyful in suffering, and faithful to the end.”

Addressing a world marked by division, conflict, and inequality, he urged them to become instruments of peace and hope. “We spend vast resources on weapons and destruction, but you are called to build peace, to encourage others, and to witness to God’s love,” he said.

He acknowledged that religious life would include moments of weakness and discouragement, yet reassured them that Christ, the Church, and the community would always accompany them. He also expressed gratitude to the parents who offered their sons in service.

A Witness to Continuity of Faith

The dual celebration—honoring a lifetime of faithful service while welcoming new laborers—served as a powerful witness to the continuity of faith. The celebration concluded with prayers for the perseverance of the newly professed brothers, that they may remain steadfast in their vocation and dedicate their lives fully to the mission of the Gospel.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service