Kohima, December 23 (MExN): Catholic Youth Association Jakhama (CYAJ) celebrated its golden jubilee on December 22 at St. Mary Catholic Church at Jakhama Village.
Earlier, the CYAJ flag was unfurled by Rev. Fr. Charles D' Souza SJ.
Speaking at the inaugural function of the 50th anniversary of CYAJ, Rev. Fr. D'Souza said golden jubilee is a time where cultivation of land requires rest and sacrificing to God while no grudges, anger, enmity or wherever any negative thing is not to be kept, a press release from Max Khieya, CYAJ member stated.
He also advised the youths to be grateful to God for their parents, well-being, healthy and wealthy lives and uncountable blessings given by God.
Stating that youths are the middle link between the children and older people, the priest urged the youths to go to church, the home of one's soul and house of God at least once a week while reminding them of the commandment to observe the Lord’s Day. “Our church is healthy when young ones are present," he said.
Rev. Fr. D' Souza referred to the crucifix at the altar while reminding the hanging Jesus wants to bless everyone. He also said that youths are the future of the church while further urging them to bring their parent and younger brothers and sisters to church.
Meanwhile, the golden jubilee Eucharist December 23 was held under the theme, " As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God," ( 1 Peter 4:10 ) on Sunday.
Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, the bishop of Kohima Diocese presided over the Holy Mass as the main celebrant. In his homily, he urged the gathering to rededicate and renew the church.
It is also a time to look to the past with gratitude, to live the present with passion and look to the future with hope, the bishop added.
Reminding the congregation that without belittling or depreciating one's tradition and identity, Christians must go beyond the limited and closed up world of tribe, creed or cast, the bishop further reminded the gathering to celebrate the golden jubilee of their faith as an occasion to commit one's life to the faith as one have received without paying."
Along with Dr. James, Fr. Charles D'Souza SJ and Fr. Arul SJ also released five pigeons as symbols of peace with the tag "CYAJ Golden Jubilee" on each on them.
Meanwhile, former CYAJ presidents from 1968 to the present president lit the jubilee candles and a minute silence was observed in honour and remembrance of the departed souls of the parish before the Eucharist commenced.
