‘Young minds must be trained and disciplined’

KOHIMA, SEPTEMBER 9 (MExN): Commemorating the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) Day, Angami Catholic Youth Association (ACYA) of St. Francis de Sales (SFS) Parish, Kohima Town organised its ‘Talent Nite 2018’ under the theme ‘celebrating God's gifts’ at APO Hall on Saturday evening in Kohima.  

Showcasing their talents during the entertaining event, ACYA (SFS) Choir, NCYM Choir, Christ King Catholic Youth Association and Cathedral Angami Catholic Youth Association enthralled the capacity crowd with choral music songs as various aspiring artistes belted out popular numbers.  

Choreography, Dance and DJ performances, instrumentals, stand-up comedy and beatboxing also captivated the audience to ask for more.  

While speaking on the occasion as special guest, Rev. Fr. GL Khing, Director NCYN extended his appreciation to ACYA President of SFS Parish, Seyiekhrielie Carolus and his colleagues for organising the event to commemorate the NCYN Day. Khing said the "Youth of the Diocese" is kept alive by the constant prayers, support and guidance of the parish.  

The priest stated that the present generation is much excited to explore the world and what lies "beyond the sunrise and sunset.” He therefore, urged the young generation to equip themselves with the knowledge of the Church and wisdom of life to take the Church and society forward in a progressive manner.  

In order to bring changes for the good of the Naga Society, he told that one must have the knowledge of oneself and others and the wisdom to differentiate between good and evil. The goodness of the society depends on the goodness of the present generation, added Khing.  

He also pointed out that a vast chasm of thinking pattern has dawned between elders and young people as Khing called upon the parents to allow their children to grow in freedom - freedom towards right living and broader prospect of life. "Young minds must be trained and disciplined spiritually, physically and emotionally. By this the Church can truly be built upon the firm foundation of young people with Christ as its head," Khing said.  

The youth director also viewed that many parents today complain about their children as young people tend to get angry at small things, or refuse to be corrected or appear to know everything without knowing anything. Khing therefore, cautioned the youths not to be victims of self-righteousness as it could lose one's very self or even kill one's Christian enthusiasm of worship and prayer.  

While referring to St.Fracis de Sales, Kohima Town as an example of a church that continuously prospers despite differences and diversities, the priest was appreciative of the many tribes and people under her fold. Khing also expressed his happiness in mentioning about the love and care that the parishioners have for each other as Catholics. "You have created a mini-Nagaland in your church," he said.  

"Always be a Catholic both inside and outside the Church. This would vitalize and manure the growth of Catholic Church in Nagaland," Khing concluded.  

Earlier, Rev Fr Peter Pithungo, Assistant Parish Priest of SFS invoked God's blessings. Mary Meyase delivered the vote of thanks, while benediction was pronounced by Vilasalie James, Catechist of SFS. Christina Yhome and Paul Belho were the hosts during the event.