The Diocese of Pathein joyfully marked the 78th anniversary of Sacred Heart Minor Seminary, a cornerstone of priestly formation in Myanmar, with a jubilant celebration held at its founding site in Mayangchaung, Pathein Diocese.

His Excellency Bishop Henry Eikhlein presided over the jubilee Mass at 7:00 A.M, and the clergy of the diocese concelebrated.

Bishop Henry of Pathein Diocese said, “When we celebrate Jubilee, we should remember these three things: remember the past, focus on today, and plan for the future.”

The bishop underlined that the seminary is the heart of the Diocese to cultivate more priests who are leading the Church. What is a missionary? A missionary is in communion with God and is based on prayer and relation with God.

The prelate encouraged the seminarians, “Dear seminarians, you must try to be happy in prayer and be rooted in prayer.”

The liturgy brought together priests, religious brothers and sisters, seminarians, and lay faithful in a heartfelt expression of gratitude for the seminary’s enduring legacy.

The jubilee celebration also coincided with the Diocesan jubilee of the seminarians, making the occasion even more meaningful. “It’s a joyous and grace-filled coincidence,” noted many in attendance.

Fr. James Ei Shu read out the history of the seminary.

Founded on August 15, 1945, Sacred Heart Seminary was established on land once used as a rest stop and hunting ground.

The land was generously donated to the diocese, and over time, it was transformed into a house of priestly formation.

Speaking on the occasion, the seminary rector, Rev. Fr. Albert Nyan Soe Nyein, recalled the humble beginnings of the institution and the hardships faced by its early formators and students.

“Those early seminarians were pioneers who planted the seeds that we now harvest. Their spirit of sacrifice continues to inspire us,” Fr. Albert said, “Today’s challenges are far easier to overcome, especially through unity and shared vision.”

Since its founding, Sacred Heart Seminary has produced 120 priests and five bishops. Its influence extends beyond the Diocese of Pathein, contributing significantly to the missions of the Church both within Myanmar and abroad.

Currently, 42 young boys are enrolled in the seminary, with 12 having passed their matriculation exams and preparing for major seminary studies in Pyin Oo Lwin.

Additionally, 15 seminarians from Sacred Heart are continuing their formation at St. Joseph’s Major Seminary in Yangon.

Fr. Albert told RVA Pwo Karen Service, “I encouraged the youth to join the seminary to do God’s mission and to find the goodness of God. Those who are working in God’s vineyard will see the beauty of God.”

Priests who returned for the event shared a deep sense of homecoming. “Whenever we come back to Sacred Heart Seminary, it feels like we are coming home to our mother,” one priest remarked.

The celebration underscored not only the seminary’s historic role in nurturing vocations but also its continued vitality in shaping future priests.

As Bishop Henry and the gathered faithful gave thanks, the day stood as a testament to the enduring mission and spiritual legacy of Sacred Heart Seminary — truly the mother house of clergy for the Diocese of Pathein and beyond.

By RVA Pwo Karen and Myanmar Services