Members of the Catholic Religious Conference of Kalay Diocese (CRCK) gathered for their monthly recollection at the Convent of the Benedictine Sisters in Mainuai village, near Kalaymyo, on November 9, 2026.

The recollection began with a spiritual talk by Rev. Fr. Andrew Gutu, SDB, who reflected on the life of religious men and women. He focused on the challenges of religious life, perseverance in vocation, and the importance of continually renewing one’s commitment to God’s mission.

Fr. Gutu encouraged the participants not to become complacent with past achievements. He reminded them that religious life is not measured merely by what one has accomplished, but by one’s continuing willingness to serve God and others in the present and future.

“The important thing is not what you have done in the past, but how many things are still left to do. It is more important to focus on what we are going to do,” he said.

He urged the religious not to lose enthusiasm or become discouraged by difficulties, but to remain faithful to their vocation and persevere in doing good. His message invited them to look forward with renewed commitment, recognizing that their mission of service is an ongoing journey.

Following the talk, Rev. Fr. Paul Pau Kim Tuang, LWMT, led the Benediction. Participants then had the opportunity for Confession and personal reflection, allowing them to renew their spiritual lives and deepen their relationship with God.

The recollection concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Camillus Ngin Ngo Suan, SDB. The homily was delivered by Rev. Fr. Joseph Thang Nen Zo Mung, Director of Diocesan Social Communication and RVA Tedim Chin Service. He reflected on the importance of preparing for eternal life through responsible stewardship, drawing from the Gospel of Luke 16:1–8.

In his homily, Fr. Joseph emphasized that all material possessions, personal talents, opportunities, and time are gifts entrusted to human beings by God. He reminded the religious that these gifts should not be used merely for personal interests or worldly satisfaction, but should become instruments of love, service, and generosity.

“Many times, we spend the possessions entrusted to us by our Master, Jesus Christ, but we fail to use them in ways that will help us be welcomed into the Kingdom of God,” he said.

Reflecting on the parable of the dishonest steward, he invited the participants to examine how faithfully and wisely they manage the gifts entrusted to them. He stressed that Christians, particularly those in religious life, are called to be responsible stewards who use their resources, abilities, and time for the service of God and their neighbors.

He further encouraged the religious to consider not only how they live their present lives but also how they are preparing for eternal life. True stewardship, he emphasized, means using earthly blessings with wisdom, generosity, and a spirit of service so that they may bear lasting spiritual fruit.

Mainuai village holds particular significance for the Diocese of Kalay. Known as the place of Mary, Queen of Peace, it is an important diocesan pilgrimage destination where the faithful gather annually to celebrate her feast. The village is located about 40 kilometers from the center of Kalay Diocese.

The Benedictine Sisters’ convent is especially significant as the only Benedictine religious community in the Diocese of Kalay. Through their presence, prayer, and religious witness, the sisters contribute to the spiritual life and mission of the local Church.

At the conclusion of the recollection, the Benedictine Sisters generously hosted a meal for all the participants—around 50 people—providing an opportunity for fellowship, fraternity, and joyful sharing among the religious communities.

Kalay Diocese is home to ten religious congregations and communities serving the local Church. They include the Sisters of St. Joseph, Franciscan Sisters, Sisters of St. Teresa, Sisters of St. Aloysius, Servite Sisters, Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Handmaids of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Benedictine Sisters, Poor Clare Sisters, and the Salesians of Don Bosco.

For those who attended, the day was a gentle reminder that religious life is not about resting on past achievements. It is about looking forward—to what still needs to be done, to the gifts yet to be shared, and to the God who calls them each day to begin again.

By RVA Tedim Chin Service