Sisters from various congregations gathered for their one-day spiritual retreat, held once every three months, on August 28, 2026, at the St. Mary Mercy Convent in Kengtung, where Sisters of Charity reside.

A total of 31 Sisters participated in the retreat. Bishop John Saw Yaw Han of Kengtung Diocese preached and shared spiritual reflections based on the Gospel according to St. Luke 4:38–44.

The Call to Awareness and Silence

During the preaching, the Bishop invited the Sisters to become more aware of their own existence and inner life through silence. After each reflection, the Sisters were encouraged to remain in silence for about two minutes, allowing them to reconnect with their inner selves and become more attentive to their spiritual lives.

He explained that the mind is like a sharp knife, while time is like a whetstone. The knife is tested by its ability to cut; its value is measured by its use and purpose. Similarly, the human mind is tested by its ability to discern and judge accurately. Each person, therefore, should learn to know themselves, to reflect on their own conscience, thoughts, and feelings.

The Bishop warned that we are often deceived by outward appearances and fail to carefully examine the true nature and direction of our own thoughts and intentions.

The Mission of Religious Sisters

The Bishop also reflected on the mission of consecrated religious women. Just as Christ proclaimed the Good News in the synagogue, the Sisters proclaim the Gospel through their way of life by dedicating themselves tirelessly, day and night, to serving the elderly, the abandoned, persons with disabilities, those wounded intellectually and emotionally, and children from both mountainous and lowland communities who lack basic necessities and need a safe environment in which to receive an education.

He emphasized that, amid their many ministries and responsibilities, the Sisters need to renew their strength through prayer and by spending time in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Just as they seek medical care when they become physically ill, they should also turn to God for healing whenever they experience spiritual weakness or illness.

Seeking Spiritual Guidance

The Bishop further encouraged the Sisters to consider carefully the limited time of their earthly lives carefully and to seek spiritual guidance and wise counsel. He emphasized that our lives are not things to be taken for granted.

He stressed the importance of seeking spiritual accompaniment and the sacraments of Reconciliation and the Eucharist. By maintaining healthy spiritual relationships and receiving proper guidance and encouragement, their consecrated lives and service will not be in vain but will bear lasting spiritual fruit.

He also warned that, at times, religious may become so occupied with ministry that they fail to make time to visit and adore the Blessed Sacrament, which may become a danger to their spiritual lives. Therefore, he encouraged the Sisters to manage their time wisely and to maintain a proper balance between ministry and their relationship with God.

The Example of St. Peter’s Mother-in-Law

Referring to the Gospel account of St. Peter’s mother-in-law, who was healed by Jesus and immediately began serving others, the Bishop reminded the Sisters that, after receiving healing and strength from God, they too are called to generously offer their physical and spiritual strength for the salvation and well-being of others.

He encouraged them not to become discouraged when they experience illness, pain, or difficulties. Instead, they should learn to recognize God, who continues to offer opportunities and grace even in the midst of suffering and challenges.

Cultivating Intimacy with God

The Bishop also reflected on how Jesus, after completing His daily ministry, withdrew to a quiet place on the mountain to speak with His Father and receive renewed strength. In the same way, religious men and women need to cultivate intimacy with God, drawing new strength and renewed ways of serving for each new day. Only then can their service bear good fruit worthy of the time and sacrifices they offer.

He shared a memorable teaching attributed to the mother of St. Augustine: rather than becoming overly attached to the place where the body that will eventually perish and be buried will rest, one should strive wholeheartedly for the eternal happiness of the soul in Heaven. This message, he said, is an important reminder for all of us.

Closing of the Retreat

Following the spiritual reflections, the Bishop listened to the Sisters as they shared their thoughts and raised matters they wished to discuss. The retreat concluded with a word of gratitude from the current president of the Sisters’ association on behalf of all the participating Sisters.

Afterward, the Sisters received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, participated in the Holy Mass, and shared lunch together before returning to their respective communities.

By RVA Akha Service