Section of the congregation in prayer during the Eucharistic procession at Sechii Zubza on January 21.
Our Correspondent
Kohima | January 21
The Angami Catholic Youth Association (ACYA) marked the third day of the ongoing golden jubilee celebrations with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and a Eucharistic procession on Sunday at Don Bosco Higher Secondary School (DBHSS) Ground, Sechü Zubza in Kohima district.
The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by the Bishop of Kohima, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil.
During the celebration, which coincided with the 33rd Triennial convention, the Bishop said that the Bible reveals about God's infinite love and man's constant refusal to accept and live God's love.
He encouraged the youth to be 'march on courageously' and to live the commandments of God.
"As Catholic youth, we have a big responsibility to be catalyst of change and harbinger of peace and harmony in the society," the Bishop said.
Discussing the gospel reading's context, Thoppil emphasized on living and spreading universality by being united with the "true vine".
Reflecting on Charismatic Conventions, Most Rev Dr Thoppil recalled witnessing individuals giving up worldly pursuits for joy in following Christ while sharing an inspiring story of an IAS officer who, despite numerous transfers, upheld principles of honesty, finding fulfillment in God's providence for his family.
‘March courageously’
Highlighting the impactful role of sincere Catholic officers, the Bishop of Kohima encouraged marching courageously without counting the cost, trusting in God's reward and concluded by extending heartfelt wishes to the ACYA for a happy and grace-filled jubilee, imploring blessings for the future.
Later, the Bishop led the Eucharistic procession with thousands of faithful walking in prayer and song, starting from the DBHSS ground to the highway and back to the venue.
The Mass was chaired by ACYA advisor Zeneikho-o Benedict Pfukha, with the first reading by Dr Noraho Nobert and second was read by Vikisienuo Ivy.
In the afternoon session, Professor, Christian Institute for Theological Engagement (CHRISTE) Malaysia, Rev. Dn. Dr. Sherman Kuek OFS, shared his journey of embracing the Catholic church from the Protestant church.
The day concluded with the jubilee night with performances from guest artists including musicians Keneisenuo Sorhie, LC Sekhose, and Mhasheve Tetseo, and comedian Aseno Ayemi.
The four-day event will culminate on January 22 with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist by Rev. Fr. Thomas Megorieto, Assistant Priest, Mary Help of Christians Cathedral Kohima. The convention is hosted by St. Maria Goretti Church Sechü-Zubza.
ACYA new office bearers
The new office bearers of the ACYA for the tenure 2024-2027 were blessed by the Bishop during the golden jubilee celebrations.
The team is led by Beituo Cyril as president. The other members include: vice president - Letuozo Patrick; General Secretary - Menuotuonuo Monica Kera; Joint Secretary - Metevinü Lucy Kikhi; Music Secretary - Mhasivilie Mathew; Treasurer - Zhomeyienu Marina; Representatives to NCYM - Keneilezo Cyril and Neingutuo Dominic; Northern ACYA (NACYA) President - Kelhouneizo Kenneth and GS- Keneiü Mary; Kohima town ACYA President - Kevinguto James Meyase and GS- Pelesanuo Julie Pienyü; Chakhro ACYA President - Ruokuo John and GS- Keneilenu Sophia; Western ACYA President -Thepfulhubi Thomas and GS - Seyievino Sophi; Southern ACYA GS- Kenongunu Cynthia Soleho.
