Catholic youths seen with Dr P J Anthony, Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, priests, nuns and others at Kapamodzü peak on April 24.
Zhavame, April 24 (MExN): The three-day 9th Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) Convention was formally inaugurated by Dr PJ Anthony, Commissioner & Secretary, Nagaland Legislative Assembly on April 24.
In his inaugural speech, a press note stated that Dr PJ Anthony told the Catholic youths from all over Nagaland that they are the future- the future of their individual families, diocese, communities and the country.
Relating real life stories, he said that “the tolerance level of today's young generation is low and they tend to give up easily, primarily because our understanding of the world is too shallow.”
One of the challenges faced by the youth, he also pointed out “is equipping yourself with your optimum potential.”
However, he said “when you are prepared spiritually, mentally, and physically, there is nothing to fear.”
He also told the congregation that there is a world beyond smart phones, social media, shopping malls, computers, etc while adding that another challenge is finding a place in the real world as opposed to the virtual world.
He further advised them to “never forget the road your parents travelled to build a life for themselves and for you” and called upon them to look beyond the beautiful state of Nagaland and beyond their own boundaries for their future.
To mark the inaugural, there was also flag hoisting by the special guest. Mhabeni Esther Yanthan was the host for the programme while Rev Fr Philip Magh read the Bible and President of NCYM, Anthony Veluhu Vero gave the welcome note. A special number was presented by the NCYM Choir and Keneisenü Caroline Vitsu, Treasurer NCYM proposed the vote of thanks while S John Krocha, Catechist of St. Xavier's Church, Zhavame said the concluding prayer.
Other highlights of the day two of the NCYM Convention included Holy Mass with Rev Fr Benjamin Chang, St Peter's Parish, Kiphire as the main celebrant. In the second session, Dn Ivan Fernandes, Director, Diocesan Youth Centre, Archdiocese, Mumbai was the main speaker. He could not be physically present because of the COVID-19 situation but a recorded video of his we speech was played during the session.
A question hour on Faith was also held with Rev Fr Dr Solomon Vizo, Rev Dr Jacob Charalel and Rev. Dr George Keduolhou as panelists.
Pilgrimage to Mt Kapamodzü
In a first, a pilgrimage walk to Mt Kapamodzü was also organised with the participation of delegates from different parishes across Nagaland.
Commenting on the Pilgrimage Walk, Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima said it was personally very enriching for him as well as spiritually nourishing.
Besides this experience of Pilgrimage, he said, “I believe in my heart that Zhavame Village has a treasure” pointing to the crucifix that was not damaged during the fire incident that completely destroyed the church in 2014. This, the Bishop, said “is a sign that God's presence is very much in this village.” He further suggested that “maybe we could make an annual procession with that cross” while stating that the cross on the crucifix has been a source of consolation for Christians all over the world. The Bishop and the host of priests present also blessed the youth and Zhavame village with a prayer.
