More than 50 priests, brothers, and religious sisters gathered for the Monthly Recollection of the Catholic Religious Conference of Kalay Diocese (CRCK) on July 3 at the Convent of the Servite Sisters, reflecting on holiness, community life, and faithful witness.

The recollection brought together members of ten religious congregations serving in various ministries in Kalaymyo.

Rev. Fr. Camillus Ngin Ngo Suan, SDB, Director of the CRCK, delivered the spiritual conference on the theme of holiness. He described holiness as “willing the good of others” and invited participants to examine their lives through the lens of the “Four Ps”—Possession, Pleasure, Power, and Prestige.

Fr. Camillus explained that these four realities can either become obstacles to religious life when pursued for self-interest or serve as instruments for God’s mission when used with humility and charity. He encouraged participants to embrace the positive use of these gifts and to grow continually in holiness through faithful service.

A Day of Prayer and Renewal

The conference was followed by Eucharistic Adoration, silent meditation, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, offering participants time for prayer and spiritual renewal. The atmosphere was one of quiet reflection, as religious from various congregations set aside their daily duties to focus on their relationship with God and their vocation.

Eucharist and Reflection on Community

The recollection concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Joseph Thang Nen Zo Mung, President of the CRCK and Coordinator of RVA Tedim Chin Service, with Fr. Camillus concelebrating.

Preaching on the Gospel of the day (John 20:24–29), which recounts the encounter of the Risen Christ with the Apostle Thomas, Fr. Joseph reflected on the importance of community life in religious vocation. Noting that the recollection coincided with the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle, he observed that Thomas’ absence from the community of disciples delayed his encounter with the risen Lord.

Drawing a parallel with consecrated life today, Fr. Joseph said that active participation in community life strengthens faith, nurtures mutual trust, and deepens communion. He encouraged the religious to remain united in faith, overcome doubt through shared witness, and cultivate genuine communion while respecting each person’s unique gifts.

Ten Congregations United in Mission

The Catholic Religious Conference of the Diocese of Kalay comprises ten religious congregations serving throughout the diocese: the St. Joseph of the Apparitions Sisters, the Franciscan Sisters, the St. Aloysius Sisters, the Servite Sisters, the Little Way Sisters of St. Theresa, the Benedictine Sisters, the Mary Help of Christians Sisters, the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Sisters, the Poor Clare Sisters, and the Salesians of Don Bosco.

Approximately 50 members participated in the monthly recollection, which concluded with an agape meal that fostered fraternity, fellowship, and spiritual communion among the participants.

The monthly recollection serves as an important opportunity for religious in Kalay Diocese to pause, reflect, and renew their commitment to their vocation, especially in a time of ongoing challenges and humanitarian needs in the region.

By RVA Tedim Chin Service