Ceremonial drum being sounded during the inaugural day of the 5th Catholic Association of Nagaland triennial convention at St Xavier Parish, Jalukie, on January 9. (Photo Courtesy: CAN)
Kohima, January 9 (MExN): The 5th Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN) Convention formally got underway on January 9 at St Xavier Parish, Jalukie, with an opening ceremony led by Firhesie Nyuwi, Executive Member of CAN, as the Master of Ceremonies.
The ceremony featured a musical welcome by the St Xavier Brass Band, flag hoisting by Fr Jaison C J, Parish Priest of St Xavier Church, Jalukie, and the rendition of the convention theme song by the Zeliangrong Catholic Youth Association, Nagaland.
Elias T Lotha, Advisor and former President of CAN, delivered the welcome address, highlighting the importance of unity and committed lay participation in the life of the Church.
The opening programme culminated in the inaugural Mass, celebrated by Fr Carolus Neisalhou Kuotsu, Vicar General of the Diocese of Kohima and Ecclesiastical Assistant of CAN, as the principal celebrant. The Eucharistic celebration invoked God’s blessings on the Convention and its deliberations, marking a prayerful and dignified beginning to the proceedings. The liturgy was coordinated by the Mary Help of Christians Cathedral Parish, Kohima.
The triennial CAN Convention will conclude on January 12, a CAN press release informed.
Former executives remembered
Earlier at the opening, the CAN paid tribute to former association’s executives who passed away during the 2023–2026 tenure.
Those remembered included Fr Thettayil Joseph (TT), SDB (1954–2023), former Ecclesiastical Assistant of CAN (2000–2003), recalled for his pastoral zeal and commitment to education and lay leadership; and Lucy Nsü Rengma (1960–2024), former Joint Secretary of CAN, remembered as a pioneering leader whose faith and leadership helped shape the Association in its formative years
Mezhü-o Marcus Solo (1952–2025), former Treasurer of CAN (2016–2020), was also remembered for his integrity, humility and faithful stewardship.
The gathering observed a moment of silence, commending the departed souls to God’s eternal mercy. The association also remembered in prayer all members who passed away during the past three years.
