The legacy of Fr. Justin Saw Lwin, a priest remembered for his profound service and the founding of the Nazareth Boarding House, was honored on Friday, the 12th anniversary of his death.

A solemn Holy Mass was celebrated at 8:00 AM on August 30 at the Nazareth Boarding House in Kyone Pyaw Township.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Bishop Henry Eikhlein, with five concelebrating priests.

The event drew a large congregation of faithful, teachers, volunteers, and children from the boarding house, now led by Saya Raju under Bishop Henry’s guidance.

In his homily, Bishop Henry framed the occasion as a moment of gratitude and renewal. He reflected on the humble beginnings of the Nazareth Boarding House, established by Fr. Justin in 1995 during a “time of uncertainty.”

“Looking back, we see the hand of God guiding this mission from its very beginning,” stated Bishop Henry.

He likened Fr. Justin’s work to the words of St. Paul: “‘I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.’ Over 30 years, many teachers, catechists, volunteers, and benefactors have continued this mission, making Nazareth a seed that God has abundantly blessed.”

The bishop said that 2025 is a “Jubilee of Grace” for the institution, marking three decades of service and calling for a renewal of its mission.

Drawing from the Gospel of Matthew, Bishop Henry highlighted Fr. Justin’s life as a testament to faithful stewardship.

“Fr. Justin did not bury his talent but faithfully offered it to God in service to children in need. His life is a living witness of Christ’s words: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant,’” he said.

Within 30 years, the Nazareth boarding house has nourished 964 children, among whom were one diocesan priest, two religious sisters, one Xaverian Brother, and now one seminarian at the Theologate Major Seminary in Yangon.

Fr. Justin Saw Lwin was born on July 6, 1950, and ordained a priest on March 12, 1976. His 37-year ministry was marked by diverse and dedicated service across Myanmar and abroad. His assignments included pastoral roles in Hinthada, Pauksin Pe, and Sharge parishes, studies in Italy, mission work, as diocesan Karuna Director, CBCM’s procurator, and serving as diocesan and National Youth Director.

In 1995, he founded the Nazareth Boarding House at Kyone Pyaw, Ayeyarwaddy Division, a project dedicated to the education and care of children, which stands as his enduring legacy.

He passed away peacefully on August 29, 2013, at the age of 64.

Friday’s mass served not only as a remembrance but as a reaffirmation of the mission he began—a mission that continues to shape lives three decades after its founding.

By RVA Pwo Karen Service