The Catholic youth in Rezua, Hakha Diocese, have continued a long-standing Marian devotion by visiting the homes of Catholic faithful and praying with families in preparation for the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The annual tradition, observed at the beginning of August, has been preserved by Rezua Catholic youth for many years as an expression of devotion to Mary and commitment to the Catholic faith and heritage.

Before beginning the home visits, the youth sought permission from the parish priest and shared their plans with him. They gathered at the residence of the parish priest, received his blessing, and then began visiting Catholic families across the community.

Preserving Faith and Heritage

Fr. James Kai Khaw, parish priest of St. Joseph Parish in Rezua, said the home visits aim to deepen young people’s appreciation of their Catholic faith and heritage while preserving the tradition of Marian devotion.

“The purpose of visiting the faithful homes before the Assumption feast is to encourage young people to develop a deep appreciation for the Catholic faith and heritage, continue to preserve this noble tradition of Marian devotion, and make it known and appreciated by our surrounding communities,” he said.

Sr. Anna Awi Men (LWST) said the celebration also includes offering fresh produce to God on the Feast of the Assumption, with the produce later distributed among the community.

Visiting Homes with Our Lady

During the visitation, the young people carried a statue of Our Lady from one home to another and prayed for the families and the wider Catholic community. They were accompanied by two catechists throughout the visits.

Although the tradition has normally been carried out during the daytime, the youth changed the schedule this year to accommodate farming families. Most families are occupied with agricultural work during the day, making it difficult for all family members to participate in the prayers.

Adapting to Community Needs

Joseph Pa Lian, leader of the Rezua Catholic youth, said the decision to hold the visits at night was made so that more families could take part.

“Since this is a busy time, every family works on its own farm during the daytime. So this year we are doing it at nighttime so that it will be better for the families,” he said.

Because of the large number of Catholic families in Rezua, the youth were divided into two groups to visit and pray with families in different parts of the community.

Seeking Blessings Through Mary

Pa Lian said the home visits are intended to seek God’s blessings for the community and Catholic families, while also helping young people receive God’s blessings through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He added that the faithful believe strongly in Mary’s intercession.

The Marian devotion also provides an opportunity to strengthen knowledge and appreciation of Mary in Chin State, where Protestant Christians form the majority and understanding of Catholic Marian devotion remains limited among many people.

Through the annual tradition, Rezua Catholic youth hope to preserve their religious heritage, strengthen the faith of Catholic families, and introduce the Marian devotion more widely to people in their surrounding communities.

By RVA Falam Chin Service