Bishop of Varanasi graces CAN convention

Jalukie, January 10 (MExN): The second day of the 5th Convention of the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) commenced with a Holy Mass at St Xavier College, Jalukie on Saturday.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Rev Eugene Joseph, Bishop of Varanasi and Chairman of the Commission for Laity, Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI). The liturgy was coordinated by St Xavier Parish, Meluri. 

In his address, Bishop Joseph highlighted the mission context of his diocese, describing Varanasi as a region with a nearly 99.99 per cent Hindu population and a growing Catholic community of about 22,000 faithful, “who are gradually growing in faith and presence.” 

Expressing hope and solidarity, he said that he looked forward to bringing leaders from his diocese to a future CAN Convention to experience the spirit of communion and faith lived by the Church in Nagaland.

Rev Joseph also lauded CAN and Most Rev James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima for the association's “sustained and fruitful work.”

He described CAN as a “God-blessed body of faith” that makes the mysteries of the Church tangible and enables Christ's love to be shared, particularly with those in need.

The day also featured sessions led by Fr Kokto Kurian, Diocesan Youth Director on “A Journey Through the History of the Catholic Church”; Fr Mhabemo Mathew, Parish Priest of St Francis de Sales Church, Kohima spoke on “Scripture and the Foundations of Catholic Practices”; and Sr Margaret Sekhose MSMHC, Provincial Superior of the Sacred Heart Province, Tinsukia, reflected on “The Rosary: Encountering Christ Through Mary.” 

The convention will hold its principal liturgical and cultural events on Sunday, including a Solemn Eucharistic Mass, Procession, and Cultural Night. The gathering is scheduled to conclude on Monday morning with a final Mass and closing ceremony.