Catechist Matthias Thang Suan Lian celebrated the Silver Jubilee of his 25 years of service as a catechist with a thanksgiving Mass at Sacred Heart Parish, Phai Hlaitaryar in Kalay, on August 22, 2026.

Bishop Felix Lian Khen Thang of Kalay Diocese presided over the Jubilee celebration, with 12 priests concelebrating, along with two deacons, religious sisters, and approximately 800 faithful. The parish priest, Rev. Fr. Damian Zam Sian Dal, welcomed the Bishop, clergy, religious, and faithful who gathered to give thanks to God for the catechist’s 25 years of dedicated service to the Church.

A Life of Catechetical Service

Originally from Lailui Village, Tedim Township, Catechist Matthias Thang Suan Lian began his catechetical ministry in his home area and served the Catholic community there for many years. As he approached his Silver Jubilee, he moved to Sacred Heart Parish in Phai Hlaitaryar, Kalaymyo, where he continued his ministry and prepared to celebrate 25 years of service to the Church.

Bishop’s Homily on the Role of Catechists

In his homily, Bishop Felix emphasized the important role of catechists in the life and mission of the Catholic Church. He shared his own personal experience, recalling that when he was a child in his village, he himself was taught and formed in the faith by a catechist. He noted that, through God’s grace and the service of those who taught him the faith, he eventually became a bishop.

Bishop Felix described catechists as “real missionaries,” particularly in remote villages and places where priests are unable to reach regularly. He said that catechists often become the presence of the Church among the people, teaching the faith, accompanying families, and helping communities remain rooted in Christian life.

The Bishop also acknowledged the difficulties catechists have faced throughout their ministry. In places where different Christian denominations live side by side, catechists have sometimes had to defend and explain the Catholic faith through discussions and debates. Despite these challenges, he encouraged catechists to remain faithful and courageous in their service.

Reflecting on the 25 years of Catechist Matthias’ ministry, Bishop Felix said that his vocation to serve the Church has also involved responsibility toward his own family. Such a commitment, he noted, can bring both hardship and joy, requiring sacrifice, perseverance, and trust in God. The Silver Jubilee, therefore, was an opportunity not only to celebrate the years that have passed but also to give thanks for God’s grace throughout the journey.

Jubilee Program and Presentations

Following the Mass, a short jubilee program was held in honor of Catechist Matthias Thang Suan Lian and his wife. During the program, Bishop Felix presented him with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of his 25 years of faithful service to the Church.

The jubilee catechist also received gifts from various groups within the parish, including the St. Monica Group, the children’s group, the youth group, as well as personal gifts from individual members of the faithful. The presentations expressed the parish community’s gratitude for his long-standing contribution to the formation and spiritual life of the Catholic community.

Words of Thanksgiving

In his words of thanksgiving, Catechist Matthias Thang Suan Lian expressed his gratitude first to God for the grace and strength given to him throughout his 25 years of ministry. He also thanked Bishop Felix Lian Khen Thang, Rev. Fr. Damian Zam Sian Dal, the concelebrating priests, deacons, religious sisters, and all the faithful for their support and prayers.

The celebration concluded with a grand jubilee lunch offered by Catechist Matthias and his family for all those who participated in the celebration.

The Silver Jubilee celebration served as a joyful thanksgiving for 25 years of catechetical ministry and highlighted the vital contribution of lay catechists to the Church’s mission, especially in communities where the presence of priests is limited. It was also a celebration of faith, perseverance, and service shared by Catechist Matthias, his family, and the Catholic communities he has served throughout his 25-year journey.

By RVA Tedim Chin Service