Members of the Magis community in Myanmar gathered in Taunggyi from 11 to 13 April with a shared purpose – to deepen their understanding of Ignatian Spirituality and put it into practice by serving the communities in Loi Long Monastery and Infant Jesus Convent, where they spent time with orphans and people with disabilities, lending a helping hand wherever they could.
Fr Benjamin Thein Tun SJ and Fr Buddy Haryadi SJ gave inputs on Ignatian Spirituality and companionship, while Fr Martin Phoe Nyo and Fr Arr Cho from the Diocese of Taunggyi discussed the topic of the youth and the church, and the issue of addiction among many young people, particularly to drugs and social media.
The programme featured team-building games and reflection sessions that gave the 80 or so participants an opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives. First-time participant Nandar Htoo Khaing expressed excitement and fear about meeting new people, but came to understand the meaning of Magis and Ignatian Spirituality, and appreciated the opportunity to serve at the orphanage by helping out in the kitchen.
“I felt tired but it was a memorable experience for me. What I liked most about the Magis programme was how we were taught to ‘do something more’. At first, I thought it was about doing something more for myself, but I realised that it was about doing more in the service of others. I will hold and apply this lesson in my life.”
Joseph Aung found the programme helpful in understanding the role of youth in the church and society, as well as the concept of a synod. He also learned about the value of compromise, respect, love, and care for others. He shared:
“Although I initially felt a bit isolated and gloomy on the first day, my mood changed completely. Everyone was enthusiastic and their smiling faces showed that we were all comfortable and happy. I was blessed with many new ideas, knowledge, and inspiration that will be useful in my future career as an English teacher.
“I learnt that a synod is the way of the church for gathering the perspectives of her different members to find the best solution that benefits all. I appreciated how the church listens to her members and allows them to ask questions. It suddenly made me wonder why our schools don’t gather together to improve the quality of our education and give us a platform to express our voice. To be honest, the vast majority of teachers I’ve encountered throughout my life didn’t listen to their students and believed that the instruction and learning environment they created was already perfect and no advancements were needed. Listening to Fr Martin deeply inspired me to know what I ought to do as a teacher in the near future.
“I was also touched by how we all are all equal in the eyes of God. Priests, nuns, religious, and lay people have the same value as one body of Christ, and we must help one another to grow in the love and grace of the Lord. Fr Arr’s personal testimony about overcoming addiction was also a source of inspiration for me. From him I learnt that addiction Top of Formdoes not refer to drugs, cigarettes, and alcohol only, but also an obsession with things and luxury.
“Although the Magis programme was only three days long, it gave deep insights into life. It taught me to focus on my present life, learn from my past mistakes, and to not be afraid to start over and over again.” [Saw Heandreas SJ]