The Holy Mass commemorating the 3rd Episcopal Anniversary of Bishop Henry Eikhlein of Pathein Diocese, and the 25th Silver Jubilee of KMSS Pathein was celebrated at 7:00 a.m. on August 25, 2026, at Mayanchaung in the Pathein Catholic Diocese.

The Holy Mass was presided over by Bishop Henry Eikhlein, together with Bishop Maurice Nyunt Wai of Mawlamyine Diocese and Bishop Bernardino Ne Ne of Taungngu Diocese. Priests, Brothers, Sisters, and lay faithful gathered to give thanks to God and offer prayers on this joyful and significant occasion.

Homily by Bishop Maurice Nyunt Wai

The Meaning of Jubilee

Bishop Maurice described Jubilee as a spiritual journey of “Stop, Look, and Go.” He explained that we stop in the present to reflect on our lives and all that we have done. We look back on the past with gratitude for the blessings we have received. Then, we move forward into the future with faith and hope.

“Jubilee therefore connects the past, present, and future,” he said. “It is a time to give thanks for the past, serve with love in the present, and pray for God’s guidance and blessings for the future. Through this journey, we are strengthened in faith, hope, and love as we continue moving forward.”

Looking Back on the Past

The past, he noted, is the history of the journey we have travelled. We are called to give thanks to God for all the blessings we have received throughout these many years. Remembering Christ’s words, “Apart from me you can do nothing,” we also give thanks to the bishops, priests, and all those who have guided, supported, and dedicated themselves to the ministry of charity.

He also expressed gratitude to all those who have received assistance through the charitable works, because their needs remind us of the meaning and value of this ministry. “Difficulties may strengthen the body and deepen the spirit,” he said. As St. Paul teaches, “Give thanks in all circumstances.” It is important to thank God not only for successes but also for failures and challenges.

Looking to the Future and Serving in the Present

The second aspect of Jubilee is to pray and give thanks for the future. Although the future is uncertain, we are called to place our trust in the faithful and unchanging God. As KMSS Pathein, we pray for the grace to continue our mission united in the spirit, values, and commitment of charity.

The third aspect is to serve and do good in the present. By living out love and compassion today, we can help build a better path toward the future.

KMSS Pathein’s 25-Year Journey

Under the guidance of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar (CBCM), Karuna Myanmar Social Services (KMSS) was established in 2001. In the same year, KMSS Pathein was established as the social service organization of the Catholic Diocese of Pathein under the leadership of His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo (then Bishop Charles Bo of Pathein Diocese).

Fr. Justin Saw Lwin, the first Director of KMSS Pathein, began the ministry with just two staff members. Since its establishment in 2001, the organization has been led by several priests: Fr. Justin, Fr. Michael Myo Myint, Msgr. Pius Win Than (then Fr. Pius Win Than), Bishop Henry Eikhlein (then Fr. Henry Eikhlein), and Fr. Peter Myat Thura. Since 2026, Fr. Justin Min Thit Lwin has been serving as the Director, continuing the mission with dedication and compassion.

Over the past 25 years, KMSS Pathein has continued its journey of compassion and service, supporting and caring for people in need despite numerous challenges. With a staff of more than 50 members, the organization has implemented various development and humanitarian programs in selected townships across the Ayeyarwady Region. Its areas of work have included livelihoods, education, health, social protection, disaster risk reduction, and emergency response.

Looking Ahead

KMSS Pathein is a social service organization under the Diocese of Pathein. Guided by the Social Teachings of the Catholic Church, it serves people in need without discrimination based on race, religion, or gender.

As KMSS Pathein looks back on its 25-year journey, it expresses sincere gratitude to all those who established the organization, provided leadership and guidance, offered support, and journeyed alongside it throughout the years.

Looking ahead, KMSS Pathein is committed to continuing its mission as a stronger, more united, and more capable organization, always ready to serve people in need, to work selflessly, and to promote the common good with compassion and dedication.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service