In a landmark gathering of faith, tradition, and community solidarity, nearly 800 members of the Myanmar Catholic Community in Melbourne (MCCM) assembled at MacKillop College in Werribee to celebrate their inaugural Parents’ Day Mass and cultural fellowship.

The historic event, held on the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne—the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and traditional patrons of parents and grandparents—marks the first time Victoria’s Myanmar Catholic diaspora has organized a unified, large-scale Parents’ Day celebration.

Archbishop Comensoli Leads Eucharistic Celebration

The solemn Eucharistic liturgy was presided over by Archbishop Peter A. Comensoli of the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne. Joining him in concelebration were MCCM Chaplain Fr. Lucas Kyaw Myint, Fr. Simeon Anthony, Fr. Jude Albert Johnson, Fr. Peter Lal Zin Thang, and several visiting parish priests from across the region.

In his homily, Archbishop Comensoli reflected on the wisdom and discernment of King Solomon, contrasting temporal worldly status with the quiet, steadfast witness of Saints Joachim and Anne. He drew a poignant connection between these biblical figures and the lived experiences of the Myanmar diaspora in Victoria.

“You carry the story of Myanmar with you—memories, both of pain and joy,” said Archbishop Comensoli. “You are called to bring out into your lives, here and now, that which is good to carry forward. It is by drawing from both old and new—from teachable memory and creative initiative, from tradition and grace—that we will find our way to God.”

Honoring Elders Across Diverse Ethnic Traditions

Following the Holy Mass, the event transitioned into a vibrant fellowship program that reflected a rich tapestry of Myanmar’s ethnic diversity—bringing together families from Karen, Kayah, Kayan, Kachin, Chin, and Bamar communities residing across Greater Melbourne and regional Victoria, including Werribee, Sunshine, Hoppers Crossing, Ringwood, and Geelong.

A central milestone of the program was the formal honoring of community elders. Special tribute gifts were presented to parents and grandparents aged 60 and older in recognition of their unconditional love, personal sacrifices, and enduring dedication to passing down the Catholic faith to younger generations.

A Collaborative Community Effort

The cultural celebration showcased significant community craftsmanship and collaboration. Cultural artwork was contributed by U Thant Zin, while bespoke altar vestments and choir dresses were hand-sewn by local community member Aunty Nan. Floral arrangements were curated by Sr. Patricia Ji Jan, the MCCM Executive Committee, and MCCM Life Teen Youth, with liturgical accompaniment provided by the St. Matthew’s Combined Choir.

Expressions of Gratitude and Unity

In a formal address, Fr. Simeon Anthony expressed deep appreciation on behalf of Fr. Lucas Kyaw Myint and the MCCM leadership team. He extended formal thanks to Archbishop Comensoli, the visiting clergy, executive members, ethnic group leaders, and MacKillop College Principal Mr. Chris Caldow for opening the school’s facilities to the community.

“Our beloved parents and grandparents—this Parents’ Day celebration is dedicated to you,” Fr. Simeon stated. “You are the heartbeat and treasure of our families and our community. May the Holy Family of Nazareth and St. Joachim and St. Ann guide us, bless our homes, and keep our community strong in faith, love, and unity.”

The success of this inaugural event underscores the growing strength and unity of the Myanmar Catholic diaspora as an integral part of the broader Archdiocese of Melbourne.

By RVA Myanmar Service