The Archdiocesan Commission for Education marked its Jubilee of Education with a solemn Eucharistic celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral on Saturday, November 22, gathering bishops, clergy, religious, educators, and students.

The Jubilee Mass, presided over by Bishop Noel Saw Naw Aye, Chairman of the national Catholic education commission, served as a moment of thanksgiving and renewal for the local Church’s educational mission. The ceremony began symbolically with a procession and prayer at the Cathedral’s Jubilee Door before the congregation entered for the liturgy.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Abraham Shwe Win, Chairman of the Yangon Archdiocesan Education Commission, set a tone of resilience and hope, acknowledging past challenges but emphasizing a forward-looking commitment. “The family is the first teacher; the teachers are the second home. We must work together for our future generation,” he stated, framing education as a core mission of the Church.

He urged educators to guide youth with Gospel values, clarifying that the goal of Catholic education “is not to be rich but to create a prosperous future for all.” He also offered a direct message of encouragement to families, assuring them that the Church stands with them and that learning opportunities are within reach.

Following the Mass, Br. Joseph Than Htaik Aung, FSC, expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the Education Commission. He specifically thanked His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo for his leadership and the bishops for their guidance, anchoring the event in its broader theme. “You are truly the heart of this Jubilee,” he said, addressing the students. “You are our pilgrims of hope.”

A key takeaway from the day came from Bishop Noel Saw Naw Aye, who championed the power of reading. Recalling the words of the late UN Secretary-General U Thant, he noted that “every reading people is developed and advanced.” He personally encouraged the habit of reading at least one book a year, sharing his own practice of finishing one book per month, while cautioning the audience to discern quality content.

Bishop Noel recommended reading the same story written by several authors to broaden understanding and form sound personal viewpoints.

The spiritual ceremony transitioned into a lively community festival. Educational exhibitions lined the cathedral grounds, cultural dances performed by schoolchildren filled the parish hall, and awards were presented to outstanding students. The Jubilee culminated in a grand fellowship lunch, reinforcing the bonds of community and shared purpose among all who dedicate their lives to nurturing Myanmar’s future.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service