Thirty-eight priests serving in the apostolic ministries and pastoral responsibilities of the 25 parishes and diocesan offices within the Kengtung Catholic Diocese gathered at the Diocesan Pastoral Center from August 12 to 14 for a three-day renewal program.

The program, themed “Praying Together, Learning Together, Renewing Together,” provided an opportunity for the priests to refresh their knowledge and experiences. It also allowed them to encourage, meet, and renew one another in a spirit of brotherhood.

Day One: Safeguarding Children and Vulnerable Adults

On the first day of the program, Bishop John Saw Yaw Han led a detailed session on the Safeguarding Policy for children and vulnerable adults.

Together, the priests reflected on and discussed the fundamental principles and responsibilities required to protect the dignity, safety, and well-being of vulnerable people, especially children, within the Church. Necessary policies and measures were also discussed and established.

The session followed the diocesan approval of the Safeguarding Policy on August 12, marking an important step toward strengthening safeguarding structures and practices throughout the diocese.

Day Two: Emotional Well-being

On the second day, Sr. Elisabeth Su Su Htwe, SFX, shared valuable insights on the emotional well-being of priests. Her presentation included healthy practices, things to do and avoid, recognizing and understanding one’s own emotions, and maintaining emotional health in a healthy way.

The session reminded everyone that, in pastoral ministry, caring not only for physical health but also for one’s emotional and inner well-being is essential. The priests were encouraged to pay attention to their emotional needs as they serve their communities.

Day Three: Caring for Ourselves and Others

On the third day, the priests reflected on and shared about self-care and caring for others.

The session emphasized that, in order to serve others effectively, one must also take care of oneself and remain physically, emotionally, and spiritually renewed. It is equally important to understand the struggles and needs of fellow ministers and to support and care for one another.

Praying Together and Renewing Together

Throughout the three-day program, the priests not only participated in learning and discussions but also prayed together, spent time in fellowship, and shared and reflected on the challenges and difficulties they encounter in their pastoral ministries.

After the daily sessions, the priests enjoyed fellowship and renewed themselves through activities such as playing football and other recreational activities. These moments of recreation provided a welcome break from the demands of pastoral ministry.

A Time of Renewal

Although the daily responsibilities of pastoral ministry can sometimes bring fatigue and challenges, gathering together once again at the Diocesan Pastoral Center provided the priests with a meaningful opportunity to renew themselves both physically and spiritually.

Through praying together, their faith was strengthened. Through fellowship, their bonds of brotherhood grew stronger. And through learning together and sharing experiences, they received renewed strength to continue serving the Church and carrying out their pastoral mission more effectively.

“Bear one another’s burdens, and so you will fulfill the law of Christ,” the priests were reminded, reflecting on Galatians 6:2.

The three-day renewal program in Kengtung Diocese stands as a testament to the importance of ongoing formation and fraternal support for priests serving in challenging pastoral contexts.

By RVA Akha Service