The Mandalay Archdiocese in Myanmar celebrated the Diocesan Families Jubilee and the Fifth World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly with a solemn Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, Lafon, on Saturday, July 26, 2025.

Archbishop Marco Tin Win of Mandalay Archdiocese presided over the Jubilee Mass, which commenced at 7:00 a.m., uniting parishioners from across Mandalay city.

The celebration focused on the sanctity of family life and the indispensable role of grandparents within both the Church and society.

In his homily, Archbishop Marco centered on the Christian virtues of hope and moral example.

“Blessed are those who do not give up their hope,” he proclaimed, identifying hope as the antidote to faithlessness, corruption, and despair.

He urged the congregation to actively pray for and support the elderly, while also encouraging older members to remain steadfast in providing positive examples, avoiding scandal.

Drawing inspiration from Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus, the Archbishop emphasized the power of intergenerational witness: “As Mary learned virtue and strength from her parents, so must our elders guide the young by their good example.”

Mr. John Soe Naing, Diocesan Director of the Laity and Family Commission, outlined the event’s importance, noting it is part of a global observance instituted by the late Pope Francis in 2021.

While this marked the fifth global anniversary, it was only the third time the Mandalay Archdiocese could locally celebrate it.

U Soe Naing cited ongoing political instability and the devastating earthquake of March 28, 2025, followed by flash floods, as significant obstacles to Jubilee Year programs.

“We could not organize events in every parish this year, but we are grateful to celebrate within Mandalay city,” U Soe Naing stated.

He explained the choice of July 26th, the liturgical feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, was deliberate: “Holding it on Sunday would prevent many priests from attending due to their pastoral duties.”

He expressed profound gratitude despite setbacks: “We thank God that we are able to hold this celebration today.”

Fr. Paul Thet Khaing, parish priest of St. Joseph’s Church, addressed parents directly in his speech, emphasizing their crucial role.

“You shall reap what you sow,” he said. “Parents must shape their children with love, prayer, and example. If we fulfill our duties as parents, orphanages would not be needed.”

He cautioned against harmful language, urging, “Be a parent who strengthens and encourages. Never belittle your children or poison their hearts.”

Fr. Paul also stressed the duty of children to express gratitude for their grandparents’ sacrifices and legacy.

This call for intergenerational respect was reinforced by Fr. Augustine Tin Maung Htun, who appealed to the youth to honor and appreciate their elders.

The celebration culminated with the reading of Pope Francis’ message for the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly.

In a poignant gesture, gifts were presented to all elderly persons over the age of 70, followed by the community paying homage to them.

The event concluded on a joyful note with a fellowship lunch shared by all attendees.

More than just a spiritual gathering, the Jubilee celebration served as a powerful reminder of the family’s central place in the life of the Church, particularly in the face of ongoing challenges.

It underscored a collective commitment to hope, mutual support, and honoring the wisdom of elders within the Mandalay Catholic community.

By RVA Myanmar Service