More than 50 catechists gathered at Saint Paul Catechist Training School in Saint Joseph’s Parish, Diocese of Kengtung, from September 13 to 19 for a transformative week of spiritual renewal and media training designed to equip them for the challenges of sharing the Gospel in an increasingly digital world.

The program combined a three-day retreat with a three-day media training course, bringing together current catechist trainees and active catechist graduates from across the diocese.

A Week of Spiritual Renewal

Father Bosco Han Zin Htoo, Rector of the Catechist Training School, explained that the purpose of bringing the catechists together was threefold: to spiritually renew them, to refresh their minds and bodies through joint worship, prayer, and games, and to help them understand the Pope’s encyclical regarding Artificial Intelligence. He noted that the retreat aimed to educate participants on the do’s and don’ts of using media to share the Good News correctly.

During the retreat, Father Joseph A Mu, former Rector of the Catechist Training School, delivered a sermon encouraging catechists to always remember that they are servants of God and to live accordingly.

As those entrusted with passing on the seeds of faith of the Holy Catholic Church, they were called to be witnesses through action rather than mere words; to practice compassion and uphold human dignity; to keep their minds and bodies healthy; and to maintain good relationships with the faithful in their ministry areas while properly leading their own families.

He also urged them to live harmoniously with village and community leaders, preserve public respect by avoiding alcoholism, and—in times of disagreement—put pride aside, remember their dignity as God’s servants, and resolve all matters through love and faith.

Throughout the retreat, participants received the Sacrament of Reconciliation and gained mutual strength by sharing their pastoral experiences.

Equipping Catechists for the Digital Age

Father Nicholas Nicoshinn, head of OSC Kengtung Diocese, shared insights on the Pope’s document regarding AI, helping catechists understand the Church’s perspective on emerging technologies.

Daw Elizabeth presented on protecting oneself through digital literacy, guiding and protecting future communities digitally, and offering social and religious leadership at the community level. She emphasized understanding the digital world to guide rural youth properly, producing community-level media content to promote peace and harmony among people of different faiths, and engaging in online ministry grounded in respect, responsibility, and Christian values.

Additionally, RVA-Akha shared practical lessons on conducting interviews, giving participants hands-on skills for media production and storytelling.

A Week of Growth and Fellowship

Participants shared that attending the retreat and training replenished their spiritual and physical strength, broadened their awareness of areas requiring preparation, and highlighted key best practices to remember.

They expressed that sharing meals, laughter, and games revived their spirits, while gaining new knowledge about media made it a deeply valuable week. The combination of spiritual renewal and practical skills training created a holistic experience that addressed both the interior life of the catechist and the external tools needed for effective ministry.

During the program, the mothers of the parish’s Saint Anne Association actively contributed by serving through cooking, ensuring that participants were well-nourished throughout the week. Their quiet service exemplified the spirit of collaboration that sustains the Church’s mission at the local level.

A Mission Renewed

As the week concluded, the catechists departed with renewed spirits, expanded knowledge, and a deeper understanding of their calling as servants of God. They carried with them not only the spiritual graces received during the retreat but also practical skills for navigating the digital landscape in their ministry.

The Kengtung Diocese’s investment in its catechists reflects a broader recognition within the Catholic Church in Myanmar that effective evangelization requires both spiritual depth and engagement with modern means of communication. As catechists return to their communities, they are better equipped to guide the faithful, accompany young people in the digital world, and share the Gospel message with wisdom, respect, and authenticity.

By RVA Akha Service