Pyin Oo Lwin, Myanmar, 9 December 2024 -- The priestly ordination of two Salesian deacons (Francis Zau Din and Justine Aung Htet Zaw) and an OFM (Charles Hawng Khawng) began at 9.00 a.m. at the Marian Shrine of Nazareth, Anisakan, Pyin Oo Lwin township on 8 December 2024,. The Ordaining Prelate was His Eminence, Cardinal Charles Bo, SDB (the Archbishop of Yangon/Rangoon) helped by Archbishop Marco Tin Win (the Ordinary of Mandalay Archdiocese), Bishop Saw Noel (Auxiliary of Yangon) and Bishop Philip Zau Hawng (emeritus Bishop of Lashio).
There were 56 concelebrating priests (Salesians, Franciscans, Jesuits, MSP-Missionaries of St. Paul, and Diocesans), and over 1200 participants. A special presence of some OFM Formators from the Philippines was much appreciated. Since the Marian Hall was packed to capacity, some Faithful attended the ceremonies from the lawn adjacent to the Shrine. Many religious people from different congregations also graced the occasion.
In his homily, the Cardinal shared his experience of Synodality in Rome: the great importance of the feminine genius of Religious women and laywomen, and the necessity of listening and accepting the remarks and suggestions of the laity were stressed so that the Church may progress together with the Faithful whose contribution cannot be ignored or left unused.
The choir (made up of the Salesians, MSP, Servites of Mary, and the girls of the FMA Convents) inspired the whole Ceremony. The whole ceremony was live-streamed on Facebook by Don Bosco Media-Myanmar.
The Salesian Family is grateful to God and Mary, Immaculate Help of Christians for the grace of the New Levites to serve the Church and Society, and to all for their participation and contribution at all levels.