Br Dominic Aung Ko Myint & Br Michael En Lam Pau

By Fr Phil Gleeson, SDB

Melbourne, Australia -- On Sunday 13 August in the Salesian Parish of Our Lady of the Southern Cross in Clifton Hill, Br Dominic Aung Ko Myint and Br Michael En Lam Pau, committed themselves forever to God before the Provincial of the AUL Province, Fr Greg Chambers. Originally from Burma, the brothers are resident in Don Bosco House Melbourne, an International House of Formation in the EAO Region, and they are engaged in theological studies at the Catholic Theological College nearby.

Joined by many parishioners, university friends, family, fellow Religious, Salesians and Salesian Family members, and a large number of people from the different tribes of Burma, the brothers happily professed their vows in a vibrant liturgical celebration. With the Word of God celebrated and sung in different languages, all present were delighted to express their faith through song, dance, procession and prayer. The Offertory Procession was a highlight with a traditional Kachin Ma Naw dance involving excited participants in a creative presentation of gifts.

In his homily Fr Greg encouraged Br Dominic and Br Michael to be like Jesus the Good Shepherd who laid down his life for his friends. He also challenged them to be signs and bearers of God’s love for the young in their lives as poor, obedient and chaste Salesians.

In thank-you speeches to all who had prepared and participated in their memorable ceremony of commitment, the Brothers expressed particular gratitude to their families and the confreres of the Vice Province of Myanmar who had lovingly nurtured their vocations and provided models of life-long commitment. They were also grateful to the Parish Priest, Fr Peter Hoang, for his warm hospitality on this special occasion.

As the Eucharist ended the whole community retired into the Aikenhead Wing in the Parish School to continue the celebrations with food, dance, music and other festivities. It was a joyous and truly Salesian celebration and a special memory for Br Dominic and Br Michael as they continue their journey and return to the daily realities of student life!

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