Dimapur, October 2 (MExN): A three-day Diocesan Vocation Camp was held at St. Joseph’s Parish, Chumukedima from September 29 to October 2 for the students of Class 7 to 12. A total of 92 participants from 16 parishes of Kohima diocese attended the camp.
In the inaugural function, James Thoppil, the Bishop of Kohima addressed the campers. He exhorted the young boys and girls to be generous and fervent in prayer and recommended them to pray, reflect and discern the will of God, according to a press release.
The first day started with a reflection on the theme ‘Prayer’ by Rev. Fr. Sajan Joseph, Parish Priest, St. Joseph Church, Chumukedima. He enlightened the gathering quoting the significance of praying always and all ways. Rev. Fr. Sajan emphasized on the importance of prayer by elaborating the Lord’s Prayer.
Rev. Fr. John Nchumbemo, SDB, addressed the campers on the topic ‘Vocations, the gift of the Love of God’. He encouraged the participants by sharing his life experiences. Being a priest in the church, he said, gives him joy and satisfaction.
Rev. Sr. Rita Miasalhou, SCCG, the Superior of Holy Redeemer Health Centre, elaborated on the topic ‘Vocation to Service’. Stressing on the church in the service of humanity, she listed the works of Jesus Christ such as preaching, teaching, healing, and acts of charity and justice.
Stephen Angami in his address on ‘A consecrated life brings joy to the family’ said wherever there are consecrated people, seminarians, men and women religious, young people, there is always joy. Worldly things and its attractions are short lived and will perish sooner or later, but doing God’s will bring true happiness and joy to all, he stated.
Rev. Fr. John Poji, Vice Principal of NEISSR (MSW), Dimapur officiated the Holy Mass on September 30. In his homily, Fr. John enlightened the boys and girls to answer the call of God. “We need to keep in mind that religious life is not a way to escape family life or problems of this world but to live totally for the Lord,” he exhorted.
Deliberating on ‘Vocation in the Local Church,’ Rev. Fr. Marius Zachamo Patton told the children that following Christ is so rich in meaning, is capable of engaging one’s whole life. Therefore, he urged the children to pray continuously to find that inner desire.
On October 1, Rev. Fr. Carolus Neisalhou, Vicar General, Diocese of Kohima in his homily said God respects our freedom of choice. “He gives us opportunity to do go in life. He said only people with total commitment and willingness to sacrifice their lives can win the world for Him. He said that our words are to be corresponded with our deed,” Rev. Fr. Carolus added.
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