A two-day seminar on the Synodal Church and Safeguarding Policy Awareness Program was held on October 27–28, 2026, at St. Joseph Parish in Rezua, Diocese of Hakha, bringing together 13 priests, one deacon, 50 catechists, and five parish community elders from Rezua and Hnaring Zones.

The seminar aimed to deepen understanding of synodality, strengthen collaboration in the Church, and promote the protection and well-being of minors. It was organized by Fr. James Kai Khaw, parish priest of St. Joseph Parish.

‘Journey Together Toward the Kingdom of God’

On the opening day, Bishop Lucius Hre Kung delivered the opening message and encouraged participants to remain united and steadfast in their pastoral mission.

Reflecting on the biblical accounts of Genesis, the Bishop recalled how humanity’s disobedience brought suffering into creation and led Adam and Eve to be expelled from the Garden of Eden. He also referred to the Tower of Babel, where people sought to build a city through their own plans.

Bishop Lucius highlighted how God called His people to live according to His image and worship Him through offerings, prayers, and songs of praise. He observed that people have traditionally helped one another in building houses and communal work, demonstrating love and solidarity.

“This spirit of cooperation reflects the vision of a Synodal Church, which calls the faithful to journey together toward the Kingdom of God without leaving anyone behind,” Bishop Lucius said.

Drawing from St. Paul’s letters to Timothy, he encouraged priests and catechists to remain faithful despite difficulties.

“There will be many difficulties in the work of God. Do not be discouraged. God is our Saviour and the promise of life,” he reminded them.

Communion, Participation, and Mission

Fr. Lucas Tha Ling Sum presented the session on the Synodal Church, focusing on its three fundamental dimensions: Communion, Participation, and Mission.

He explained that the Diocese of Hakha had conducted workshops on synodality and that the outcomes were submitted to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar, helping convey the voices of the faithful to the wider Church.

Fr. Lucas stressed that sincerity and transparency are essential for building unity and cooperation within parish communities.

“If a priest is not sincere enough, there will be chaos and disunity in the community. It will be very difficult to work together with the faithful,” he said.

Safeguarding: ‘We Need to Make Sure They Are All Safe’

Fr. James Kai Khaw led the session on Safeguarding Policy Awareness, emphasizing the Church’s responsibility to protect minors and uphold their dignity, safety, and well-being.

He noted that the Diocese of Hakha had already developed and implemented a safeguarding policy, which had been submitted to the CBCM. He encouraged participants to take the policy seriously and apply it responsibly.

Fr. James acknowledged the challenges of communicating safeguarding standards in communities where local customs may differ from contemporary practices. He explained that introducing these standards could sometimes cause surprise or discomfort, making patient education essential.

“If there are people, there is a problem,” Fr. James remarked, emphasizing that difficulties must be addressed through careful listening and responsible leadership.

Referring to Jesus’ warning about leading a child into sin, he underscored the grave responsibility of protecting children. He explained that anyone under 18 is considered a minor and must receive appropriate protection.

“We need to make sure they are all safe,” he stressed.

Fr. James reaffirmed the Catholic Church’s zero-tolerance policy toward the abuse of minors and called for more safeguarding awareness programs at the parish level. He urged participants to become instruments of protection and healing rather than causing further harm.

The seminar concluded with a renewed call for priests, catechists, and parish leaders to strengthen cooperation, promote synodal participation, and ensure the Church remains a safe and welcoming place for everyone, especially children and vulnerable people.

By RVA Falam Service