The Salesian Congregation in Myanmar celebrated the priestly ordination of two deacons on Friday, August 14, 2026, at the Nazareth Salesian Novitiate in Anisakan, Pyin Oo Lwin.

The Solemn Mass of Ordination was presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, SDB, Archbishop of Yangon, beginning at 9:00 AM.

The two newly ordained priests are Fr. John Phyo Thura Aung, SDB, and Fr. Freymoe Win, SDB.

Fr. John Phyo Thura Aung was born on July 5, 1996, in Mandalay, to Mr. James Khin Maung Latt and Mrs. Catherine Khin Mya Aye. He is the second of four siblings.

Fr. Freymoe Win was born on October 11, 1995, in Lat-Hton Village, Pekhon Diocese, to Mr. Abraham and Mrs. Victoria Maria.

Cardinal’s Homily on Joy and Service

In his homily, Cardinal Bo outlined the pastoral expectations of the Catholic priesthood. He stressed that a sacred calling is a divine selection rather than a personal ambition.

“A priest must be a bearer of joy—not merely an officiant who conducts religious ceremonies, but one who brings the joy of Christ to the people,” Cardinal Bo stated.

Quoting Gospel scripture, he reminded the new priests of Jesus’ words: “You did not choose me, but I chose you.” He exhorted them to ground their ministry in humility and optimism.

The Cardinal urged the newly ordained priests to serve as “bridges, not walls.” He encouraged them to walk alongside the youth without hatred or judgment, reflecting the Salesian charism of accompanying young people with love and understanding.

Voices of the Newly Ordained

Fr. Freymoe Win reflected on his discernment process during retreats. He reaffirmed his decision to pursue the priesthood with zeal, emphasizing his goal to be a faithful Salesian and pastor devoted to accompanying young people.

Fr. John Phyo Thura Aung described the day as a milestone of divine grace. He noted that ordination marks the beginning of a lifelong commitment centered on prayer, community life, religious obedience, and youth service.

Family Members Express Gratitude

Family members expressed gratitude and reflected on years of spiritual encouragement.

Mrs. Victoria Maria and Mr. Abraham, parents of Fr. Freymoe Win, expressed joy over their son’s ordination. They attributed his vocation to early exposure to parish life, religious community encouragement, and sustained family prayer.

Daw Catherine Khin Mya Aye and Maria Daw Khin Yi, mother and aunt of Fr. John Phyo Thura Aung, recalled overcoming health obstacles during his childhood. They offered prayers for his ongoing strength, purity, and dedication in priestly service under the guidance of Our Lady and St. John Bosco.

A New Beginning

The liturgical celebration concluded with blessings for the newly ordained Salesian priests as they begin their sacerdotal ministry in Myanmar.

The ordination of Fr. John Phyo Thura Aung and Fr. Freymoe Win represents a significant moment for the Salesian Congregation in Myanmar. Both priests now embark on their mission of serving God’s people, with a particular focus on the youth to whom St. John Bosco dedicated his life.

The celebration in Pyin Oo Lwin was a day of joy, gratitude, and hope for the future of the Church in Myanmar.

By RVA Myanmar Service