Bishop Lucius Hre Kung called on catechists and the faithful to strengthen their commitment to evangelize through prayer, unity, service, and exemplary Christian lives during Mission Sunday at Sacred Heart Parish, Calthawng, Hakha Diocese, on October 18, 2026.

The Mass was attended by one bishop, five priests, one deacon, one religious sister, 30 catechists, and approximately 300 faithful from Calthawng and neighboring villages. The celebration coincided with a three-day recollection for catechists from the Rezua Zone, led by Fr. Pius Kei Lian Cung. Fr. Joseph Aung Lwin, parish priest of Sacred Heart Church in Calthawng, hosted and organized the program.

‘Today Is Mission Sunday’

In his homily, Bishop Lucius highlighted the essential role of catechists and the faithful in participating in God’s mission of salvation. He described the gathering as a blessing for Calthawng village, the parish, the zone, the diocese, and the wider world.

“Today is Mission Sunday, which our Mother Church celebrates for us,” the bishop said, emphasizing that the catechists’ recollection provided an opportunity to renew their faith and dedication to the Church’s mission.

Reflecting on his childhood, Bishop Lucius recalled how catechists visited his village to pray with Christians and organize activities that strengthened the community’s faith. Their visits brought encouragement, new initiatives, and opportunities for spiritual growth.

He encouraged parents, young people, catechists, and all members of the parish to work together in building up the Church through prayer, mutual support, and perseverance in faith.

A History of Faith Since 1959

The bishop recalled that Calthawng embraced Catholicism in 1959. Since then, the community’s places of worship have moved from one location to another, while the faithful have continued gathering for prayer. He described this history as a powerful spiritual witness to their enduring commitment to God.

He urged Christians to proclaim the Gospel not merely through words or public declarations but through peaceful, faithful, and exemplary lives, following the example of the early Christians.

Drawing on the day’s Scripture readings, Bishop Lucius reminded the congregation that God never abandons those who trust in Him. Referring to the biblical account of King Cyrus, whom God used to free the Israelites and enable them to rebuild their temple, he explained that God can work through anyone to fulfill His divine purpose.

‘Your Words Will Not Enter Hearts Without Actions’

Bishop Lucius stressed that effective evangelize requires catechists to live according to the message they preach. Referring to St. Paul’s teaching that the Gospel is proclaimed not through words alone but also through the power of the Holy Spirit, he urged catechists to demonstrate their faith through their actions.

“No matter how good your preaching is, if it cannot be shown through your actions, your words will not enter the hearts of believers,” he said. He encouraged catechists to trust in the Holy Spirit rather than their own abilities, especially when facing difficulties in their ministry.

The bishop also emphasized the responsibility of parents and catechists to become positive role models for children and young people. He noted that younger generations learn how to live by observing the example of adults, particularly those who guide them in faith.

Supporting Missionaries and Church Leaders

On Mission Sunday, the bishop invited the faithful to pray especially for missionaries and reflect on St. Paul’s teachings about faith, love, service, and hope in Jesus Christ. He encouraged Christians to support the Church through prayer, financial contributions for church-building efforts, and cooperation with one another.

“The Church is pleased with what you are doing. Both the bishops and the priests are pleased,” he said, recognizing the community’s contributions.

He also called on the faithful to respect and support their spiritual leaders, enabling them to carry out their pastoral responsibilities with joy. He warned against arguments, competition, and impatience, stressing the need for understanding, righteousness, goodness, and tolerance within the Church.

Concluding his homily, Bishop Lucius encouraged the faithful to remember how the Gospel first reached their country and to pray for those who continue dedicating their lives to spreading the faith. He described Mission Sunday as a time of spiritual renewal and renewed commitment to God’s mission.

As the celebration concluded, the faithful of Calthawng went back with a renewed sense of purpose—called to proclaim the Gospel not just with their lips, but with their lives.

By RVA Hakha Service