Bishop and priests of Myitkyina Diocese gathered for a three-day program from August 12 to 15 at St. Columban’s Center House in Myitkyina, combining spiritual recollection, a seminar on the canonical form of marriage, and a general meeting.

The program began with a day of recollection on August 12, providing priests with an opportunity for spiritual renewal and reflection.

On the second day, Fr. Andrew Aung Kyaw Oo from Yangon Archdiocese led a seminar on the Sacrament of Marriage. He explained how to practice the sacrament in accordance with local situations in one’s mission and how to follow the Church’s rules and regulations. The session provided practical guidance for priests serving in diverse pastoral contexts.

The remaining two days were dedicated to the general meeting of the Bishop and priests, where they discussed pastoral matters and the future direction of the diocese.

Feast of St. Maximilian Kolbe

On August 14, 2026, at 6:30 am, the Feast of St. Maximilian Kolbe was celebrated at Columban’s Cathedral. The Bishop and priests, together with parishioners, celebrated Mass and observed the special feast day for the sanctification of priests.

Bishop’s Homily

In his homily, Bishop John Mung Ngawn La Sam reflected on the words of the Lord Jesus: “As I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”

The Bishop reminded the congregation that they did not choose the Lord Jesus; rather, the Lord Jesus chose them. Therefore, he said, they must know that success and everything they receive comes from God.

“We want success in our lives, we don’t want difficulties,” the Bishop said. “But if we really love the Lord Jesus, we can overcome difficulties with our love for the Lord Jesus.”

He noted that everyone who works for the sake of the world chooses only what is right and best. But God calls and chooses people who love Him to serve Him and follow Him.

The Bishop reflected on how the Lord Jesus chose the Apostle Peter to be the head of the Church. He did not ask him once, “Peter, do you love me?” He asked three times.

“God’s servants may have weaknesses in the world’s wisdom and abilities,” the Bishop said. “However, God’s servants—Bishops, priests, brothers, and sisters—are doing this work with God’s blessing and God’s love.”

He emphasized that God gives graces to anyone who loves Him, follows Him, and asks in His name.

“Among these many priests, there may be priests who are wise and outstanding,” he said. “When we see this happening, let us praise God’s grace. When we see priests who are discouraged, let us pray for them.”

The Bishop reminded the priests that even if they have weaknesses, they must remember that they are not following God with the strength of the world. Because God loved them, the Lord Jesus blessed them with His grace.

Fellowship and Celebration

In the afternoon, a fellowship football match was held, bringing together the priests for recreation and camaraderie. The day concluded with a grand dinner, providing an opportunity for fraternal fellowship and celebration.

The three-day gathering in Myitkyina Diocese served as an important moment for spiritual renewal, practical formation, and pastoral planning. The priests left with renewed commitment to their vocation and strengthened bonds of brotherhood.

By RVA Kachin Jinghpaw Service