Bishop Henry Eikhlein of Pathein Diocese celebrated his feast day on July 13 with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Bruno Orphanage School, where he delivered a heartfelt message to students: “Without education, there can be no bright future.”

The 6:00 a.m. Holy Mass was presided over by Bishop Henry and concelebrated by two priests in the chapel of St. Bruno Orphanage School. Religious brothers, sisters, and students of St. Bruno Boarding School gathered in prayer to celebrate the Bishop’s feast day and to thank God for his faithful ministry and pastoral leadership.

Homily: The Condition of Our Hearts

In his homily, Bishop Henry reflected on the Word of God and its power to bring life to those who receive it with faith.

“The Word of God creates a distinction between those who receive it and those who reject it,” he said. “However, this difference does not come from the Word itself, but from the attitude and openness of the hearts that receive it.”

He invited the congregation to reflect on the condition of their own hearts. “The Word of God is life and truth. Those who hear the Word with faith and accept it receive true life, while those who refuse to accept it cannot grow in spiritual life.”

The bishop emphasized that every day offers an opportunity to hear God’s teachings. “The important question is: How do we receive, understand, and put into practice what we hear?”

Education as a Blessing and Responsibility

Following the Mass, Bishop Henry offered a heartfelt message to the students of St. Bruno Orphanage School. He reminded them that having the opportunity to study at a young age is a great blessing and a gift from God.

“Today, many children, especially those living in areas affected by conflict, are unable to attend school because of difficult circumstances,” he said. “When children lose access to education, they also lose important opportunities for their growth and future.”

The bishop urged the students to value their education, study with dedication, and make the best use of the opportunities given to them. “Your efforts today will help build a better future for yourselves, your families, and society,” he said.

A Reflection on Gratitude and Compassion

Bishop Henry shared a personal reflection that moved the students deeply. He recalled how, after the heavy rain the previous night, a thought came to his heart: “I was able to sleep safely and comfortably in a warm place. But at this very moment, there are many people who, because of war and natural disasters, are forced to flee through the rain, facing difficulties without a safe place to sleep.”

He expressed his sadness and compassion for those experiencing such hardships. “True gratitude is shown through love, kindness, and concern for others,” he said, encouraging the students to develop compassionate hearts by caring for and helping those who are suffering.

A School of Hope

St. Bruno Orphanage School is home to more than 30 boys, all of whom are under the dedicated care and guidance of Brother Alexi, SFX, with Fr. Pascal Ko Ko Aung serving as their Spiritual Director. The children come from different parts of Myanmar, mostly from Mindat, Taungngu, and Pathein.

Together, the caregivers provide the students with care, education, and spiritual formation, helping them grow in faith, knowledge, and character in a loving and faith-filled environment.

As the celebration concluded, the message was clear: education is not merely a path to a better life—it is a sacred responsibility, a gift from God, and a foundation upon which a brighter future can be built.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service