In a region long recognized as the cradle of many of the world’s major spiritual traditions, the common denominator of human dignity took center stage as Caritas Myanmar celebrated its 25th anniversary.
A Convergence of Faith and Humanism
Asia’s diverse landscape has nurtured foundational faiths that guide billions of people, stretching from the Abrahamic traditions of Western Asia to the rich dharmic and philosophical lineages of South and East Asia.
While these traditions differ in their theological doctrines, they converge on a shared concern for the flourishing, welfare, and dignity of the human person.
This shared ethical core is evident across the continent’s major faith communities, where diverse populations live side by side.
Whether expressed through the Quranic teaching that saving one life is akin to saving all humanity, the Hindu ideal of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“the world is one family”), or the Buddhist pursuit of universal compassion, the underlying mandate remains the same: service to the vulnerable.
For Fr. Girish Santiago, SJ, regional superior of the Myanmar Jesuit Region, this interreligious harmony is not a theoretical concept but a lived reality.
Having spent years in mission work among Hindu and Muslim communities in the Indian states of Tamil Nadu and Gujarat, and the past decade among Myanmar’s Buddhist majority, he has observed a profound resonance between Christian charity and core Buddhist virtues.
“In Myanmar, one cannot help but admire the profound humanistic values of Buddhism,” Fr. Girish observed, pointing to the four noble attitudes of Metta (loving-kindness), Karuna (compassion), Mudita (sympathetic joy), and Upekkha (equanimity), which cultivate a balanced heart.
Twenty-Five Years of Love in Action
It is under the banner of Karuna that the Catholic Church in Myanmar has carried out its social and pastoral mission. Karuna Mission Social Solidarity (KMSS), the social service arm of the Catholic Church in Myanmar, has served vulnerable communities across the country for a quarter of a century.
To mark this milestone, KMSS convened its Silver Jubilee celebration on May 23–24, 2026, at the historic St. Mary’s Cathedral campus in Yangon. Gathering under the theme “Journey of Love in Action,” church leaders, humanitarian workers, and international delegates reflected on 25 years of relief work, development programs, and social solidarity.
An Unexpected Encounter of Ignatian Ideals
The celebration was distinguished by the presence of Mr. Alistair Dutton, secretary-general of Caritas Internationalis, based in Rome.
A Scottish humanitarian leader with decades of international relief experience, Dutton delivered the inaugural address on the morning of May 23, grounding the mission of Caritas in the Gospel.
“Jesus’ mission was to preach the Good News to the poor,” Dutton said, reminding the assembly that genuine humanitarian service, carried out with love (caritas), reflects the Gospel call to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and shelter the homeless.
“Caritas Myanmar has done such a service for the past 25 years. Continue doing all these humanitarian services with passion and compassion for the greater glory of God.”
The address struck a familiar chord with Fr. Girish, who serves as spiritual director of the organization.
Following the speech, a conversation revealed a shared spiritual lineage. When Fr. Girish remarked that the address sounded distinctly “Jesuitical,” Dutton smiled and confirmed his formative years with the British Province of the Society of Jesus, including a regency assignment with the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) in Damak, Nepal.
“It was there that I found another way and left the Society,” Dutton shared. “But I joined the Caritas organization immediately. Since then, for the past 30 years, I have held fast to what I learned as a Jesuit, and I continue to love and serve all through Caritas. Indeed, all for God’s greater glory.”
For the Jesuits present, the encounter served as a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of the Ignatian spirit, which continues to inspire humanitarian service across institutional boundaries, always directed toward ad majorem Dei gloriam—for the greater glory of God.
Footsteps Moving Forward
The jubilee was not only a time for reflection but also a celebration of culture and community.
The gathering featured a performance by Ms. Mu Angela, a celebrated Kayan singer and staff member of KMSS Pekhon Diocese, embodying the grassroots commitment that continues to sustain the organization’s mission.
As Caritas Myanmar enters its next chapter, the convergence of international solidarity, local dedication, and interfaith harmony strengthens its resolve.
In a country continually tested by complex socioeconomic realities, the Karuna mission remains a vital vehicle for unity, demonstrating that working together for the marginalized is both a spiritual responsibility and a pathway toward lasting peace.
