In a proactive move to strengthen institutional integrity and community safety, the Catholic Archdiocese of Mandalay recently concluded a week-long Safeguarding Awareness Training for its clergy, religious sisters, and lay personnel.

The intensive workshop, held from March 2 to 8, 2026, at the Don Bosco Retreat House in Anisakhan, Pyin Oo Lwin, was facilitated by Fr. Henry Brang Mai and a specialized training team. The initiative brought together parish priests, educators, and administrative staff from across the Archdiocese to formalize protection protocols for children and vulnerable adults.

A Global Mandate for Local Action

In his keynote address, Archbishop Mark Tin Win of Mandalay Archdiocese framed the training as both a local necessity and a response to the global call for reform within the Church.

“This training is not only for our Archdiocese but is a vital contribution to the global Catholic Church,” the archbishop stated. He noted that in an era dominated by rapid media influence, vulnerable populations face unprecedented risks. “As clergy and religious, we have a duty to strengthen the weak and correct what is wrong. This training only becomes meaningful when we act as ‘candles,’ spreading this light of awareness throughout our respective communities.”

Establishing an ‘Abuse-Free Zone’

Fr. Henry Brang Mai, the program coordinator, emphasized that the primary objective was to modernize existing safeguarding policies. By integrating the field experiences of priests and staff, the Archdiocese aims to create a more robust and comprehensive safety framework.

Sr. Jane Nway Nway Ei (RGS), who led several sessions, spoke candidly about the cultural shifts required to implement these standards. “Our vision is to transform the Archdiocese of Mandalay into an Abuse-Free Zone,” she said. “While these safeguarding concepts may have originated in the West, they are essential to our mission. We must ensure that a ‘Safeguarding DNA’ is embedded in our daily operations through annual reflections and renewals.”

Voices from the Field: Participant Impact

The training resonated deeply with attendees, ranging from parish priests to specialized educators:

• Clerical Reflection: Fr. John Kyaw Thu Ya noted that the sessions provided a sobering opportunity for self-reflection. “It alerted me to unintentional actions that could be misinterpreted. I am now better equipped to interact safely with the children and parishioners in my mission area.”

• Preventative Strategy: Fr. Peter Sein Hlaing Oo highlighted the importance of early intervention, stating, “We are fortunate to receive this training as a preventive measure before issues arise. The success of this initiative now depends on how diligently we apply these methods on the ground.”
• Specialized Protection: Catherine, a teacher for children with disabilities, emphasized the practical benefits. “Working with children who have special needs requires a high degree of physical and mental safety. I now have a clearer roadmap for providing that protection.”
• Institutional Security: Sr. Olivia Nu Nu Khaing of the Safeguarding Team concluded that the ultimate goal is twofold: ensuring the safety of the staff while fostering a secure environment for the community they serve.

Looking Ahead

The Archdiocese plans to use the feedback and data gathered during this week to finalize an updated, diocese-wide Safeguarding Policy. Church leaders expressed confidence that these systematic changes will ensure a safer, more transparent future for the Catholic community in Mandalay.

By RVA Myanmar Service