5th Regional Youth Convention concludes

DIMAPUR — The 5th Regional Youth Convention (RYC), organised by the North Eastern Regional Youth Commission (NERYC), concluded on Monday.

According to an update, the closing day was marked by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, with Rev. Benny Varghese, Bishop of the Itanagar Diocese, as the main celebrant.

In his address, Bishop Varghese recalled his long pastoral journey, including 36 years of service as a priest in the Diocese of Kohima before his transfer to Tripura.

Addressing the youth, he spoke of the pivotal role they play in shaping the future, urging them to seek and follow God’s unique will for each of their lives.

He recounted the early presence of the Catholic Church in Arunachal Pradesh during a period when many Indian states had enacted anti-conversion laws.

The bishop also evoked a historical moment during the inauguration of the Cathedral in Kohima, where Japanese and British individuals—former adversaries in the Second World War—shook hands in a gesture of peace and reconciliation at the Cathedral, Kohima.

Also read: Archbishop of Guwahati leads Holy Eucharist at Regional Youth Convention

Bishop Varghese emphasised the importance of building a personal relationship with God and encouraged the young delegates to return to their parishes with a renewed sense of service and compassion.

The convention officially drew to a close with the ceremonial lowering of the convention flag by Nagaland Transport Commissioner Elias T Lotha.

Hosted by the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima, the 5th RYC brought together over 2,000 youth from 15 dioceses across the Northeast.

Earlier, on day 3, the Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, as the main celebrant.

Delivering the homily, the bishop reflected on the significance of the gathering, rooted in a shared Catholic identity. He emphasised that the day coincided with the feast of St Peter and St Paul, pillars of the Church.

Former Arunachal CM Nabam Tuki attended the award ceremony as the special guest.