The historic Kanazogone Parish Church celebrated with hymns of praise and deep devotion on August 16, 2025, as the community gathered to solemnly celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Despite the official feast day falling on August 15th, the vibrant 7:00 AM Eucharistic celebration on Sunday drew parishioners, religious, and faithful from neighboring communities, united in honoring Mary’s glorious Assumption into Heaven.

Three priests concelebrated the Mass, presiding over a congregation filling the century-old church, a building itself steeped in a narrative of unwavering faith.

The celebration held special significance within the context of the Jubilee Year 2025, proclaimed by Pope Francis as a year of “thanksgiving and renewal.”

Bishop’s Homily: Jubilee Joy, Enduring Faith, and the Power of Prayer

In his homily, Bishop Henry Eikhlein of Pathein Diocese underscored the profound meaning of the Assumption.

He expressed particular joy at marking this feast with the Kanazogone faithful during the extraordinary Jubilee Year.

“The Jubilee Year is a year of great blessings,” Bishop Eikhlein reminded the attentive congregation.

Turning his gaze to the venerable walls surrounding them, the Bishop reflected on the parish church itself – now over 100 years old – as a powerful “testimony of the faith and sacrifices of past generations.”

He drew a direct line from the perseverance of the community’s ancestors, who preserved the church through trials, to the present day, urging the faithful to “remain strong in faith and united.”

Bishop Eikhlein placed paramount emphasis on the vital role of prayer in sustaining Christian life.

“Without prayer, the soul cannot survive, just as we cannot live without air,” he stated compellingly.

Holding up the Blessed Virgin Mary as the ultimate model, he passionately advocated for the daily prayer of the Rosary.

“Follow her example,” he urged, specifically encouraging everyone to pray the Rosary “at least once in the morning and once in the evening,” entrusting themselves daily to Mary’s maternal love.

A Church Forged in Faith and Resilience

The Bishop’s reflections on endurance found deep resonance in Kanazogone Parish’s own storied history.

The church’s origins trace back to a modest wooden structure built by French missionaries Fr. Cartreau and Fr. Noël Petrus Sadoux.

As the Catholic community flourished, the need for a larger church arose. Under the leadership of Fr. J. Mourier and Fr. Sadoux, and constructed by skilled Chinese and Indian masons, a stronger church was completed in 1908.

This building was solemnly consecrated in 1924 by Bishop Alexander Cardot, MEP.

The parish’s faith faced a fiery trial on May 31, 1942, when ethnic conflict led to the church being burned and severely damaged. Yet, the community’s spirit remained unbroken.

With the return of peace, dedicated parishioners undertook the task of rebuilding. The church that stands today is not merely brick and mortar; it is a potent symbol of unwavering faith, profound unity, and indomitable resilience.

Joy, Gratitude, and Renewed Hope

This morning’s celebration of the Assumption concluded amidst an atmosphere palpable with joy, deep gratitude, and a spirit of renewal.

Parishioners departed having honored the Mother of God, while also giving profound thanks for the enduring witness of their historic church. This beacon continues to inspire faith, foster unity, and offer steadfast hope for generations yet to come.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service