Two pioneering online Catholic groups celebrated a decade of digital ministry and faith-building for the Kachin community with a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Columban’s Cathedral in Myitkyina on October 25, 2025.

The ceremony, which drew over 200 faithful from nearby parishes, marked the 10th anniversary of St. Peter’s Catholic Online Prayer Group and the RVA Kachin Service WeChat Group. The Holy Mass was presided over by Bishop John Mung Ngawn La Sam and concelebrated by ten priests, with staff from RVA’s Kachin, Lisu, and Rawang language services in attendance.

In his homily, Bishop John Mung Ngawn La Sam commended the initiative and encouraged the media to continue its vital missionary work. His message underscored the groups’ founding mission: to harness digital tools for evangelization and community support.

Following the Mass, attendees gathered to honor the history and impact of the two groups. Both were established in 2015 by Miss Mary Hkawn Hkawn to serve Kachin Catholics worldwide, particularly those in remote areas and along the China border.

St. Peter’s Catholic Online Prayer Group, founded on July 24, 2015, was created to provide spiritual nourishment for those unable to attend physical churches. Its purposes include facilitating group prayer, offering youth guidance, promoting valuable internet use, and educating members on church holidays.

The RVA Kachin Service WeChat Group, launched on October 25, 2015, serves as a crucial information channel. It ensures access to RVA news in regions where Facebook is restricted, delivers daily Bible readings, and provides a direct line to the RVA office, as well as a platform for locating missing family members.

Former Coordinator of RVA Kachin Service and former Program Director of Manila Office, Rev. Father Bernard Dashi Tang Ji, addressed the gathering. “Kachin Service WeChat groups are opened for missionary work and other knowledge, and they are sharing their efforts. Therefore, we are able to express our gratitude for 10 years,” he stated.

The celebration concluded with the presentation of thanksgiving gifts to former staff members of the RVA Kachin Service, recognizing their contributions to a decade of faith-based service and community connection.

By RVA Kachin Service