Thousands of pilgrims gathered at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes at Nyaunglebin from February 6 to 15 for the 124th National Marian Pilgrimage, receiving a powerful call to become peacebuilders in a nation wounded by conflict and division.

The nine-day celebration culminated on February 15 with a Solemn Thanksgiving Mass presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo, who delivered a homily linking the healing waters of Lourdes to Myanmar’s deep need for reconciliation.

“It is very pleasing to see that in the midst of different difficulties and hardships, many of the faithful come to Nyaunglebin Marian Shrine with much devotion and faith,” the Cardinal said, acknowledging the trials facing those who made the journey.

Drawing a parallel between Nyaunglebin and Lourdes, Cardinal Bo noted that Mary appeared not to the powerful but to a poor, sickly girl, St. Bernadette, just as she chooses humble places marked by suffering. Nyaunglebin, he observed, is not a place of wealth but a region of displacement, broken families, and uncertainty.

“Mary did not bring weapons or anger,” he said. “She brought accompaniment, prayer, and healing. She let the water flow to heal the suffering world.”

The Cardinal’s central message was direct: genuine peace cannot be imposed from above. “Peace does not begin with the government. Peace begins from our hearts,” he emphasized. “Mary invites us to be builders of peace.” He urged the faithful to choose forgiveness and understanding over hatred, allowing the “water of peace” to flow regardless of ethnicity or status.

Msgr. Andrea Ferrante conveyed greetings from Pope Leo XIV, describing the shrine as a place of encounter with God. Speaking to young people, he reminded them that Mary herself was young when she said “Yes” to God’s call. “Do not be afraid to say ‘Yes’ to the Lord,” he urged.

The pilgrimage began on February 6 with the hoisting of the Marian flag and nine days of novena Masses. At its conclusion, Bishop Francis Than Htun, chairman of the pilgrimage committee, expressed gratitude to all who contributed.

As the Marian flag was lowered, symbolizing the pilgrimage’s end, the faithful were strengthened by a message of hope, healing, and the conviction that peace—like grace must flow first from within.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service