Over 160 Karen Catholics from across the United States gathered at St. Pius X Parish this past weekend, uniting for the 8th Annual Karen American Catholic Community (KACC) Conference.

Held from July 4th to 6th under the theme “Rooted in Christ, Growing in Christ” (Colossians 2:6-7), the event served as a powerful hub for spiritual renewal, cultural connection, and leadership development for the growing diaspora community.

Attendees, representing 10 U.S. states, participated in a rich program centered on deepening their Catholic faith while nurturing their unique Karen heritage.

The weekend featured daily Eucharistic Celebrations, opportunities for Confession, and profound periods of Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, including a reverent Eucharistic procession.

A significant highlight for many was participating in the Holy Mass celebrated entirely in the Karen language, presided over by visiting priests from their homeland.

Faith Formation and Testimony
Founder Fr. Seraphim Wirth and President Emelda Thein delivered key addresses, setting the tone for the conference.

Substantial catechetical sessions explored core topics like “Who is God?”, “Identity and Growing in Christ,” and other foundational teachings.

Priests recently returned from studies in Rome played vital roles: Fr. Issa Shwe Oo (Taungoo Diocese) and Fr. Augustine Shwe (Mawlamyine Diocese) not only assisted liturgically but also explained KACC’s Mission and Vision to participants. 

Fr. Paul Lin Htut (Yangon Archdiocese, ministering in Chicago/Colorado) led a session on “Cultivating a Relationship with God,” followed by small group discussions.

Inspiration flowed from personal stories as well. Sr. Scholastica Wea and Sr. Monica Darrichon of the Holy Spirit Congregation (SSPS), alongside Fr. Duc Le SVD from Vietnam, shared their vocation journeys, aiming to inspire youth toward religious life.

Testimonies from community members further enriched the faith-sharing experience. Dedicated talks on the Blessed Virgin Mary and the power of the Rosary provided additional spiritual nourishment.

Building for the Future
Beyond spiritual enrichment, the conference focused on community structure and future mission. The KACC Committee held meetings resulting in the formation of a new KACC Youth Leadership Team for 2026/2027, ensuring continuity and youth engagement.

An evaluation of KACC’s past activities provided insights for future growth.

A dedicated session featured Fr. Seraphim, Emelda Thein, and KACC council members Dah Po and Ka Paw Law speaking on KACC’s ongoing mission work, particularly along the Thailand-Myanmar border, highlighting the community’s connection to and support for their brethren still facing challenges in Southeast Asia.

Entertainment each evening fostered fellowship and cultural celebration.

A Beacon of Faith and Culture
Founded in 2016 by Fr. Seraphim Wirth to address the specific needs of Karen Catholics navigating life in America, KACC has grown from a regional gathering in Minnesota to a vital national network.

Based in St. Paul, MN, with ties to St. Casimir Catholic Church, KACC fulfills its vision to “unite and support all Karen-American Catholics” and its mission to strengthen faith through culturally resonant catechesis (in Karen, Burmese, and English), preserve Karen heritage for younger generations, and support Karen Catholic communities abroad.

This year’s conference in Indianapolis underscored KACC’s crucial role: providing a sacred space where faith, deeply rooted in Catholic tradition, flourishes alongside the vibrant cultural identity of the Karen people in their American home.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service