Two members of the Missionary Servants of Mary (MSSM) made their perpetual profession of religious vows on March 10 at St. Francis Xavier’s Church, with the Myanmar Cardinal describing their commitment as a sign of hope for a nation in pain.

Sr. Ananthi Cecilia Mary and Sr. Lourthu Sheila Mary dedicated their lives to God through the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. His Eminence Cardinal Charles Bo of Yangon Archdiocese presided over the solemn Eucharistic celebration and delivered the homily.

A Holy Day for Church and Nation

“Today is a holy day. Heaven rejoices, and the Church rejoices,” Cardinal Bo said. “In the midst of fears and uncertainty, God has called these two sisters to make their perpetual vows.”

He acknowledged that many young people today fear the word “perpetual,” especially in a country where insecurity affects families, the priesthood, and religious life. Yet the sisters have entrusted their entire lives to God with courage and faith.

Following Mary at the Foot of the Cross

Reflecting on the spirituality of the Missionary Servants of Mary, the cardinal said being “servants of Mary” means more than devotion. It means standing with Mary at the foot of the cross in times of suffering.

He connected this image with Myanmar’s current situation, where many families have been displaced, villages destroyed, and children separated from their parents.

“Our country is standing at the foot of the cross,” he said. “Many are weary and have lost their strength. Our call is to stand there with Mother Mary.”

Vows as Signs of Healing

The cardinal emphasized that the evangelical counsels are not burdens but signs of hope and healing in a wounded society.

“Our vow of poverty means to be with others in their difficulties and to proclaim that God alone is our refuge,” he explained. “Religious life is a sign of healing and love in a society damaged by distrust, violence, and suffering.”

He highlighted the deeper meaning of obedience as listening attentively to the voice of God, the Church, and the cries of the people amid the noise of conflict.

Cardinal Bo encouraged the sisters to live their vocation as a living witness for youth. He expressed hope that young people would be inspired by their dedication and service.

He reminded the newly professed that perpetual profession is not the end but a commitment that must be renewed daily through prayer, service, and perseverance.

Personal Testimonies

In her vocation testimony, Sr. Ananthi Cecilia Mary shared three inspirations that led her to religious life.

She was deeply moved by the missionary dedication of religious sisters serving alongside parish priests in remote areas. Her family’s strong prayer life, especially praying the rosary every night, nurtured her faith. Constant prayer for the wisdom of the Holy Spirit strengthened her trust in God’s grace.

She admitted experiencing doubts during her early formation and considered leaving. Reflecting on her mother’s joyful and faithful example renewed her determination.

“I always feel that the Virgin Mary is my true companion and the rosary is my true weapon,” she said. She encouraged parents to support children who feel called to serve the Church.

Words of Thanks

Sr. Lourthu Sheila Mary expressed gratitude to God for the blessings throughout her life. She thanked Cardinal Bo for presiding, the parish priest and community of St. Francis Xavier’s Church, the Mother General and formators of the congregation, and family members, relatives, and benefactors.

She extended special thanks to those who assisted with liturgical music, decorations, food preparation, and other services that made the celebration possible.

By RVA Sgaw Karen Service