The visit began with a simple yet deeply moving liturgy in the community chapel, presided over by the local Superior, Mother Angela Ng. In a symbolic and heartfelt gesture, Mother Sandra lit the Candle of the Canossian Mission in Myanmar, a beacon of Hope. The prayers that followed called upon peace for a nation deeply marked by social tensions and political unrest—and for a world increasingly torn by division. The light of the Holy Spirit, brought to us through Mother Sandra, was a tangible sign of God’s loving presence, dwelling in our hearts and guiding our mission.
During the gathering, Mother Angela shared, with emotion and gratitude, the history of the Canossian Mission in Myanmar, which began between 1996 and 2007 thanks to the pioneering efforts of courageous Sisters. A key milestone came in January 2008 with the opening of the formation house in U Kyaw Hla, Yangon. Since then, a structured program for Educator Formation has prepared 365 young women to become Canossian Educators, now actively serving in boarding homes and educational centers supported by the local Church. It is a true work of evangelization through education—one that has given voice and dignity to new generations and continues to bear fruit in love and service.
Mother Sandra offered words of encouragement, recognizing and affirming the courage and resilience of the Sisters, who, despite the many challenges, continue to carry the mission forward with passionate hearts. “Making a difference in the lives of the poor is a concrete sign of our faithfulness to the Gospel,” she reminded us.
March 14 was a day of double celebration: the Golden Jubilee of Mother Angela, who joyfully renewed her 50-year “Yes” to the Lord. The Holy Mass, presided over by Father David Saw Tha Khu, Assistant Pastor of the Epiphany Parish, was a moment of deep communion and thanksgiving.
At 9:30 a.m., Mother Sandra and the community visited the Canossa Home, where they were warmly welcomed by the kindergarten children, their teachers, and staff. The little ones expressed their joy through song and gestures, while the older girls and educators performed traditional dances that highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the Burmese people.
The day concluded with a closing ceremony and a fraternal moment of sharing with Mother Sandra. Her final words were a heartfelt invitation to live as “Women of the Word”—able to love without limits, open to the Spirit, rooted in God’s Love, and always ready to rekindle the flame of Charity, so that it may burn brightly and embrace the world.
Though brief, this visit left a lasting imprint on all our hearts, renewing our commitment to the educational and spiritual mission in a land marked by suffering, yet rich in faith.
Article by Mother Anita Vallence (FdCC)
Current Affairs Note
Just a few days after the visit, Myanmar was struck by a powerful earthquake, resulting in casualties and severe damage across several regions. Our prayers have since deepened; now more than ever, we feel the urgent call to be a living and tangible presence of Christ’s Charity among those who suffer. May Mother Sandra’s visit—a sign of communion and hope—continue to light our path in these uncertain times.
