Parents’ Day was celebrated at St. Padre Pio Seminary on July 27, bringing together Bishop Lucius Hre Kung, 12 priests, 13 religious sisters, seminarians, and guests for a day of prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the gift of parents.

During the Holy Mass, Bishop Lucius delivered a homily based on Deuteronomy 6:4–7, encouraging parents, teachers, and fathers to teach children according to the law of the Lord faithfully. He said Christian parents have a special mission in raising their children in the faith.

“Christians are agents of blessing to the world, and Christian parents are ambassadors of blessing to their children in the Church,” the Bishop said.

Honoring Parents and Their Sacrifices

Speaking on the importance of honouring parents, Bishop Lucius said that the Bible teaches children to respect their parents, and it is true that children should love and respect their parents because of the sacrifices they make. He recalled how many parents in local villages cannot afford new clothes and instead repeatedly mend old ones, putting the needs of their children before their own.

“These sacrifices are a reminder that honouring and caring for parents is a responsibility of every child,” he said.

The Bishop also referred to St. Paul’s teaching in the Letter to the Colossians, reminding parents to listen to their children and not discourage them. He said parents should become good examples for their children through their words and actions.

He noted that while parents are usually devoted to their children, many children today fail to care for their ageing parents and grandparents. Bishop Lucius encouraged families to restore love, respect, and care for one another.

Remaining Faithful Amid Challenges

Reflecting on the life of the Prophet Jeremiah, the Bishop said Jeremiah remained faithful to God’s mission despite rejection and suffering. He encouraged priests, religious, and seminarians to follow Jeremiah’s example by remaining faithful even when they are not appreciated by the world.

“Religious life may not always be valued by society, but it is always valued by God. We do not serve the world; we serve the Lord and work for His Kingdom,” he said. Quoting St. Paul to Timothy, he urged them to endure hardships with faith and perseverance.

A Message of Hope

Despite the many challenges facing the Church, Bishop Lucius expressed hope by announcing that four seminarians are expected to be ordained as deacons in the diocese in the near future. Two are from the Little Way Missionary of St. Thérèse, and two are diocesan seminarians.

Addressing the seminarians, the Bishop said he wished all their parents could have been present to witness the celebration. He praised parents for their courage in sending their sons to the seminary, saying that such commitment is increasingly rare today.

He encouraged the seminarians not to lose hope, even when facing difficulties in their families or vocation. “God is the one who calls, protects, and strengthens you,” he said, reminding them that they are preparing to become future leaders who will bring healing, comfort, and hope to the Church and society.

A Seed of Hope

Using the image of a small seed, Bishop Lucius urged the seminarians to remain patient and allow themselves to be formed through prayer, study, and discipline. He encouraged them to develop their talents in academics, literature, and music, saying that their future ministry, writings, and voices could one day reach far beyond their local community and become a blessing to many people around the world.

He concluded by reminding the seminarians that even though they are not yet priests, their decision to enter the seminary has already brought joy and hope to their families, villages, and communities. He encouraged them to treasure their vocation and remain faithful to God’s call.

Seminary Achievements

In February 2026, six seminarians from St. Padre Pio Seminary took the entrance examination conducted by Campion Institute. All six successfully passed the examination, with the seminary securing first and fourth places.

Established in 2016, St. Padre Pio Seminary in Hakha currently has 61 seminarians pursuing their studies, a testament to the enduring faith and hope of the Catholic community in the Diocese of Hakha.

By RVA Hakha Chin Service