NAY PYI TAW December 22
Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister Senior General Min Aung Hlaing attended the Christmas Thanksgiving and Fellowship Dinner organized by Christian Church Associations of Myanmar at St. Mary’s Cathedral Church in Botahtaung Township of Yangon Region this evening.
Also present at the dinner were Daw Kyu Kyu Hla, wife of the Senior General, Council Joint Secretary General Ye Win Oo and his wife, council members and their wives, Union ministers and their wives, senior military officers from the Office of the Commander-in-Chief and their wives, the Yangon Region Chief
Minister, the commander of Yangon Command, the mayor, bishops and reverends from Myanmar Council of Churches, Myanmar Catholic Dioceses, Myanmar Evangelical Christian Alliance and Myanmar Christian Missionary Cooperation Committee, officials from Interfaith Dialogue Group and guests, Christians, Catholic youths and Christian town elders.
The Chairman of the State Administration Council, the Prime Minister and his wife, along with the members, arrived at St. Mary’s Cathedral Church, where they were welcomed by the Catholic Archbishop, Cardinal Charles Bo, and senior clergies.
Following this, the ceremony began with a prayer of blessing led by Rev Myo Myint Oo, and then Archbishop Stephen Than Myint Oo delivered a welcoming speech.
They all sang the song of Choir titled “Prosperous Myanmar”.
In his Christmas greetings, the Senior General said that Christmas Day is celebrated as a day to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ.
It was stated that the Christmas season is a time that brings joy and happiness to people.
Regarding religion, every individual has the right to freely practice and believe in the religion or faith of their choice.
In the Constitution (2008), provisions are set forth regarding religion and faith, and legal guarantees are provided. Furthermore, the Constitution also explicitly ensures the right of every citizen to freely practice and adhere to their religion or faith.
The teaching of the religion is ultimately a path for achieving peace within human society.
It is also a form of wisdom, through which peace and harmony should be promoted. Only through inner peace can humanity experience the tranquility of the entire society. Although different religions may differ in their practices, the foundation of all religions is love, and it is essential to practice patience and forgiveness, which are core principles, while avoiding extremism and bigot.
It is well known that in Myanmar, people of various ethnicities, religions, and beliefs have lived together in harmony and coexistence.
Despite the differences among them, they have been able to build unity through mutual understanding, tolerance, and respect. Individuals must continue to protect and maintain this unity. In particular, religious leaders of each faith should encourage their followers to cultivate knowledge, wisdom, and virtuous attitudes.
Our government is striving to establish a solid multi-party democratic system that aligns with the desires of all citizens and to return to the correct democratic path. We have laid down plans and national political goals to achieve this.
We firmly believe that the challenges faced within any society living together can only be effectively resolved through democratic means—dialogue and negotiation. Political issues, or political demands, must be addressed through political processes, and they cannot be resolved through armed conflict.
Armed violence is not a path accepted by any society, and we, too, must stand united against such actions.
In Myanmar, the majority of the population practices Buddhism, with Christianity being the second most widely practiced religion. For our nation’s stability, peace, and prosperity, Christian organizations and followers play a vital role.
Therefore, we respectfully urge and encourage their participation in various sectors. Starting this Christmas season, we call on everyone to build a peaceful and harmonious society, not only in Myanmar but across the world, through mutual understanding and tolerance, guided by the teachings of the Lord. Let us extend Christmas blessings and work together to create a serene and beautiful community.
Following this, Naw L Syriwa led a hymn of praise, and Reverend Dr. Maurice Lennar guided the attendees in reading responses for the birthday celebration. Sister Mary Zinmar Swe conducted a Bible reading, and Cardinal Charles Bo, the Archbishop, delivered a sermon.
The Church of the Most Holy Redeemer Choir performed the Christmas hymn in joyful harmony. Later, Reverend Dr. Aye Min offered a special prayer for the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.
Then, Cardinal Charles Bo, Archbishop Stephen Than Myint Oo, and Reverend Dr. Aye Min presented Christmas commemorative gifts, a Christmas blessing letter, and a gem-studded painting to the Chairman of the State Administration Council Prime Minister, and wife.
In return, the Senior General and his wife presented Christmas commemorative gifts as well.
Next, Reverend Manparmastan delivered a message of gratitude, followed by Reverend Saw Sar Nay offering blessings for everyone who contributed to the success of the Christmas fellowship dinner.
Afterward, the audience joined together in singing the hymn “Hark! The Herald Angels Sing” in unison.
Following this, Cardinal Charles Bo delivered a Christmas blessing message, expressing his wish that during this joyful Christmas season, not only Christians but all humanity around the world be filled with the blessings and goodwill of Christmas.
He extended his blessings to the Chairman of the State Administration Council
Prime Minister and his family, government officials, military personnel and their families, and all the people of Myanmar.
The Senior General and wife, along with other officials and attendees, participated in the fellowship dinner hosted by the Myanmar Christian Churches Federation.
