The Catholic Major Seminary in Yangon celebrated the graduation of its third cohort from the Diploma in Socio-Pastoral Studies program in a ceremony held on Saturday, August 30, 2025.

Thirty students completed the rigorous program, which blends social work principles with Catholic pastoral teaching.

Twenty-eight graduates were present to receive their certificates at the 9:00 a.m. event, which began with an opening prayer from Fr. Joseph Zarni Win Khaing.

In his address, the rector of the seminary, Fr. Cyprian Aung Win, extended his gratitude to the faculty and supporters.

He emphasized the program’s unique value, stating it is “not just for knowledge” but serves as “a bridge that connects their faith and their profession.”

He challenged the graduates to let Christian values be the invisible but essential foundation of all their future service.

The ceremony was attended by Bishop Raymond Wai Lin Htun, Auxiliary bishop of Yangon Archdiocese, a former professor of Major Seminary before his Episcopal ordination, who was instrumental in the program’s inception.

He recalled initial discussions highlighting the need to prevent Church organizations from operating like secular NGOs by ensuring workers are grounded in both social and pastoral principles.

“Wherever we are, we cannot compromise our Christian values,” Bishop Raymond stated. He also shared aspirations for the program to gain international accreditation in the future.

The program’s academic coordinator, Dr. Win Htun Kyi, praised the graduates for their perseverance, noting the significant challenge of completing over 300 hours of online instruction.

He framed the program as a practical response to Pope Francis’s call for a “Synodal Church,” calling it a “foundation of journeying together.”

A highlight of the event was the singing of a specially composed song by Mr. Joseph Vung Khan Kap, which called for love of creation and service to the needy.

The ceremony also featured an alumni oath led by graduate Ms. Rose Khaing Mye Thu and a word of thanks from representative Maria Meng (Vung Lam Cing), who expressed gratitude for the program’s blend of classroom learning and practical field exposure.

This third graduation marks the continued growth of the program. The first cohort of 24 students graduated on July 8, 2023, followed by a second cohort of 21 students on August 24, 2024.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service