25 YEARS OF JOYFUL FIDELITY OF SR. MARIA THUZAR AUNG

Anisakan, Myanmar- On May 31, 2021 (Feast of the Visitation of Mary) the FMA communities joyfully celebrated the 25th anniversary of the loving fidelity of Sr. Maria Thu Zar Aung. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the political crisis in Myanmar, the celebration was done in a simple way yet in a serene and family atmosphere with some of the Salesian priests and brothers.

 

The Eucharistic celebration began at 9:30 am at the Nazareth Chapel which was presided by Archbishop Marco Tin Win (Mandalay Diocese) and Fr. Bosco Nyi Nyi Zeya Aung (Superior of the Vice Province of SDB Myanmar) and other Salesian Priests. Our Provincial Superior, Sr. Jessica Salvaña participated via online. The homily of Bishop Marco was very encouraging for Sr.Maria Goretti and for all those who were present in the celebration. He encouraged all to have the humble attitude of Mary who attributed all to God and to His mercy. He underscored that each one of us has to look back to our life experiences and God's blessings so as to move forward with gratitude. Before the end of the Holy Mass, Sr. Maria Goretti expressed her heartfelt gratitude by praying her 'Magnificat'. She thanked God for His loving fidelity and all the graces she has received during these 25 years of her religious life. As she thanked the Lord she also thanked and asked God's blessing for Mother General and all the Superiors, her departed parents, Archbishop Marco Tin Win, the Salesians and all those present in the Holy Mass. The well-prepared liturgy and songs made the atmosphere very prayerful and serene. After Mass, lunch was served to all the participants which was lovingly prepared by the family members of Sr. Maria Goretti Thu Zar Aung. After lunch the celebration continued with a simple program prepared by the 5 communities. At the end of the program Sr. Maria Goretti expressed her joy of being loved by God and her gratitude to God for His merciful love. And she, too, expressed her thanks to all who were present. Indeed, it was a simple celebration yet filled each one’s heart with joy and gratitude.