A parish in the Archdiocese of Mandalay, Myanmar, celebrated the Jubilee for Families in conjunction with the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly on July 26.
Archbishop Marco Tin Win of Mandalay presided over the solemn Mass at St. Joseph’s Church, located in Chanayethazan Township, Mandalay.
“We must not lose hope in life despite the many challenges we face,” said Archbishop Marco in his homily. “We must continue to pray for and support our grandparents and the elderly.”
He reminded the faithful of the example of Sts. Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary, calling on everyone to show respect, care, and gratitude to the elderly. “We need to be thankful for their love, support, and sacrifices,” the archbishop said. “Who we are today is because of what they have given us.”
Despite generational gaps, Archbishop Marco encouraged young people to listen to the wisdom of their elders, who serve as sources of moral and spiritual guidance.
The celebration was organized by the Archdiocesan Commission for the Laity and Families.
Ahead of the Mass, Fr. Paul Thek Khine gave a talk on the role and importance of families in society.
“If you reap what you sow, what will you sow and reap?” he asked. “Parents must raise their children with care, or they may reap consequences they never intended.”
He emphasized that children observe the attitudes of their parents and grandparents—especially their faith and gratitude. “If parents are devout and polite, there is a higher chance the children will follow the same path. But if there is no godliness in the home, it becomes difficult to pass it on,” he explained.
Reflected on the reality many parents face in old age, Fr. Thek Khine told the young people, “We must always be grateful. No one should disrespect their parents or grandparents. Care for them with love.”
He offered a moving reminder to the youth: “If you're walking slowly because you're with your elderly parents, don’t be upset. Remember, they were the ones who taught you to walk, clapping their hands in joy as you took your first steps.”
Fr. Augustine Tim Maung Tun also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the dignity of family life and intergenerational unity.
— With input from Paul
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