Myanmar Cardinal encouraged the use of media to extend the mission at the first profession of three Missionary Sisters of St. Paul at St. Martin Church in Pyin Oo Lwin, on May 23, 2025.

“According to the signs of the times, I encourage the use of media to extend your mission. Where your feet cannot go, let your message reach through digital platforms,” His Eminence Charles Cardinal Bo said.

Cardinal Bo urged the Missionary Sisters of St. Paul (MSP sisters) to embrace modern tools in their evangelization efforts.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration for the profession was presided over by His Eminence Charles Cardinal Bo, founder of the Missionary Society of St. Paul.

In his homily, Cardinal Bo reflected deeply on the challenges and mission of religious life, emphasizing the virtues of humility, faithfulness, and obedience to God’s Will even in the face of oppression, criticism, and adversity.

“Religious life is not easy,” Cardinal Bo said. “Missionaries are called to die for the Word of God. They are called to suffer, to grow weary, to endure for many years—yet they continue to radiate joy and bring happiness to others. Though Christ did not ask us to suffer or die exactly as He did, He calls us to offer our daily struggles as a sacrifice.”

The cardinal also took the opportunity to recount the origin and growth of the Missionary Society of St. Paul.

He shared that the seed of the congregation was first planted in 1982–83 during his pastoral ministry in Lashio Diocese, where he began a group called “Witnesses of Christ.” Though the group’s activities waned after his transfer, Cardinal Bo remained committed to the vision. In 1990, after becoming a bishop, he officially established the MSP with ten young women and one young man.

“From Lashio to Pathein and Yangon, we journeyed with a mission to form dedicated missionaries,” he said, “After obtaining the approval of Pope John Paul II, MSP was recognized as a religious order. Our purpose has always been clear: to bring the Gospel to remote and unreached areas, even in the most difficult conditions.”

The newly professed sisters are Sr. Martina Nant May Oo Khin, Sr. Justa A Zar Ni of Pathein Diocese, and Sr. Cecilia Seng San of Myitkyina Diocese.

Sr. Cecilia Seng San expressed her deep enthusiasm for her future mission: “MSP is about preaching the Gospel. I will learn and carry out this mission with all my heart. I love teaching, especially little children, and I believe I can also share the Good News through music, which I truly enjoy.”

Sr. Justa A Zar Ni recalled her early inspiration to join the MSP. “As a child, I only knew two religious orders: St. Francis Xavier and St. Paul missionaries. I admired the way St. Paul missionaries lived and served. Despite facing many challenges, I have remained faithful to this call and the footsteps of St. Paul’s mission.”

The event marked a historic milestone for the young congregation, which continues growing in numbers and impact. With increasing involvement in remote areas such as Mawlamyine and Myitkyina, and a renewed focus on media-based evangelization, the Missionary Sisters of St. Paul remain committed to their founder’s vision—bringing Christ to the margins and serving with compassion and courage.

By RVA Myanmar Service