Yangon Archdiocese’s 13 priests mark 27th ordination anniversary

Thirteen priests of the Yangon Archdiocese of Myanmar offered thanksgiving Mass on the day of their sacerdotal ordination anniversary on March 18.  

Among the 13 priests, John Saw Yaw Han and Noel Saw Naw Aye—two auxiliary bishops of Yangon archdiocese—were included. 

“We have arrived at our 27th anniversary and it is purely because of the divine mercy and love of God and the prayers of people. It is not because of our own efforts,” said Bishop John.  

“With the divine assistance, these priests have overcome their challenges and difficulties. They make use of their lives and abilities for the greater glory of God,” said Pius Win Than, a priest from Pathein Diocese, in his homily.  

It is visible that these priests are serving the Church like the Cornerstone according to the mission fields they are posted,” added Father Pius. 

Since some of the anniversary celebrants are occupied with different assignments, they celebrate their anniversary in different locations according to their own arrangements. 

“We are hoping to have a better situation in the near future and we will plan to have our anniversary celebration more festive and joyful in the coming year. The anniversary is a sort of gratitude towards God," said Father Abraham Shwe Win, Rector of Sacred Heart Education Center, Bago.

Six-anniversary celebrants received the special blessing from Cardinal Charles Bo, Archbishop of Yangon after the Mass. 

“Although we are not perfect, we will keep on serving God and the people in the coming days and years. We believe that the prayer and support of Catholics and others will accompany us always,” said Father Saw Hubert, one of the anniversary celebrants. 

The group planned to visit Holy Land in 2019 as they have arrived at their silver jubilee but it was successful due to Covid-19.