The Legion of Mary in Ywegone Parish, Pathein Diocese, celebrated its 25th anniversary with a Silver Jubilee Mass on Monday, December 8, uniting members in gratitude and setting an ambitious goal for future growth in the region.

The celebration, held on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, was presided over by Bishop Henry Eikhlein of Pathein Diocese. He was joined by 17 priests and a congregation filled with Legion members and parishioners from surrounding villages.

In his opening message, Bishop Henry issued a call for unity and expansion. He urged prayer and diligent work “so that by the year 2030, we may have at least 5,000 committed members serving under the Marian banner” across the Pathein, Myaungmya, and Hinthada zones.

In his homily, Msgr. Pius Win Than expressed the Church’s pride in the Legion’s work and reflected on the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. He emphasized the family’s role in faith formation, reminding parents that they are “the first preachers in the family” with a duty to guide their children spiritually.

The jubilee also honored the organization’s local history. The Ywegone Curia was formally recognized on December 7, 2000. Today, it oversees eight senior groups and two junior groups, known as Praesidiums, with names like “Our Lady of Peace” and “Our Lady of the Assumption.”

The curia currently comprises 89 total members: 40 active pioneers, 8 auxiliary members, and 41 junior members. The anniversary served as both a thanksgiving for a quarter-century of Marian apostolate and a recommitment to expanding its mission of prayer and service in the years ahead.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service