A four-day Media Biblical Catechesis Teachers Training Workshop concluded this week, aiming to revitalize religious education through modern, creative methods. The event, held from October 21 to 24 at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Myanmar (CBCM), gathered 58 participants from across the country.

Organized by the National Biblical Pastoral Ministry, the workshop sought to empower catechists and religious teachers with new skills for the digital age. Attendees included 41 religious sisters from various congregations, 14 catechists from the Archdiocese of Yangon, one priest from Kengtung Diocese, one religious brother, and 15 lay persons.

The primary resource person, Fr. Bosco Saw Lah Htoo, a National Core Team member, emphasized that effective teaching must be rooted in personal faith. “The heart is the soil for the Bible,” Fr. Bosco told participants. “Personal experience and personal feeling are the most effective means to convey the message to the people. Evangelizers should let the message of the Word of God grow in their hearts first.”

The workshop combined lectures with intensive practical exercises. Participants were divided into six groups for discussions and collaborative projects, which they later presented to the full assembly. This structure was designed to foster the sharing of talents and innovative approaches.

Acknowledging the diverse learning curves of participants, Fr. Bosco added, “Some can grasp quickly, some need more time, and some may struggle. But we have to accept our capacity and situation.”

Further enriching the program, Fr. George Shwe Htun, National Coordinator of the Biblical Ministry, introduced creative techniques to help memorize Scripture. In an interview with Radio Veritas Asia, he explained that the workshop’s goal was specifically to support those teaching young children and post-confirmation youth.

“All teachings and methods are based on Scripture. Videos, pictures, and dramatizations can make classes more attractive and engaging for children and young people,” Fr. George said.

A key focus was on the power of biblical storytelling. Fr. Bosco encouraged catechists to leverage stories as fundamental tools, noting the modern “weakness in the love for literature.” He reminded attendees that sharing faith is an act of love and that growth comes from learning from mistakes.

The workshop concluded on a note of gratitude and mission. Sr. Helen Hmwe Hmwe Lay (MSP) offered thanks to the organizers and Fr. Bosco for his “attractive and powerful presentations.”

Echoing the workshop’s spirit, Fr. George Shwe Htun sent participants forth with a clear charge: “We are to give light and love.” The event concluded with the distribution of Gospel songs for children, providing new resources for future catechism classes.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service