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KOHIMA — The much awaited two-day golden celebration of the Angami Catholic Women Association (ACWA) got underway on Saturday at Christ the King Church in Kohima village on the theme "Lord, let me be a channel of grace."
Adorned in exquisite traditional attires, the women, many of whom are mothers, immersed in song, prayer and reflection to honour fifty years of dedication and service.
In her address during the inaugural session, Rev. Sr. Rita Miasalhou, SCCG, spoke on the jubilee theme and reflected on the significance of Mary, the mother of Jesus, as a model of grace and obedience to God's will. Drawing from biblical teachings, Sister Rita emphasised the transformative power of a mother's prayer and urged the assembly of women to fortify their families and communities through steadfast devotion.
The women were encouraged to extend their prayers beyond their immediate circles to encompass those in need, particularly in regions affected by conflict and natural disasters.
The inaugural session, presided over by former ACWA president, Ahieno Janet, began with the ceremonial lighting of the jubilee candle by Rev. Fr. Vemedo Joseph, ACWA spiritual director, and parish priest of Mary Help of Christians Cathedral Church. Executive members and former office bearers of ACWA also joined in lighting the symbolic candles, signifying continuity and unity across generations.
The jubilee choir, comprising 132 mothers from five churches, presented jubilee anthem and other songs accompanied by pianist Medotseinuo Joan.
Dr. Kiyasetuo Stephen Vizo delivered the welcome address on behalf of Christ the King Church, while a moment of silent prayer was observed to honour the of past ACWA president, Alhouü Albina, and other members.
Kikrusonuo Clara, convenor of the golden jubilee organising committee, highlighted about the meticulous preparations for the jubilee during the session and concluded with a prayer led by Rokono Rita.
In the second session, Fr. Vemedo Joseph and Rev. Fr. Vimedo Joseph Kezo emphasised the significance of the golden jubilee celebration for women, noting that God grants jubilee to carry forward His blessings to others.
Fr. Kezo encouraged the participants to rejoice and praise the Almighty during such occasions. Reflecting on the biblical significance, he recounted how God pardoned the Israelites after 40 years of slavery and underscored the importance of rest, rejoicing and rededication to God during jubilees.
He reminded the faithful that humanity, made in God's image, cannot find peace without remembering their creator. He added that jubilee is a time not only for socialisation and physical rest but also for spiritual renewal to lead a meaningful and successful life.
He urged the Catholic women to fast through the Rosary, receive communion and re-evangelise their families as acts of reconciliation with God.
Kezhasezo Kenneth, president of the Angami Catholic Union, conveyed greetings and urged women to be not only physical mothers but also spiritual mothers, bringing blessings to others wherever they go. He highlighted the role of women in uniting people and communities and also emphasised their potential as channels of peace for the church and society.
During the celebration, the president of ACWA received a certificate from the Pope. An apostolic blessing to Visazhünuo Carmila, ACWA president, and all members was also administered on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.
The session, chaired by co-convenor Khrieneinuo Angela, featured a special performance by the jubilee choir accompanied by pianist Khriesetuonuo Cynthia and followed with a closing prayer by Neichürieno Bridget.
The first day came to a close with a solemn adoration, rosary, and reconciliation session led by Rev. Dr. Fr. Solomon Vizo, parish priest of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Khonoma. Asatuoü Christina presided over the session, while the Legion of Mary, St. Francis De Sales Kohima town, led the rosary prayer.
The jubilee celebrations will culminate on Sunday with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist to be celebrated by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, at 10 am.
Scores of women delegates from northern, southern, western, Kohima town and Chakhro are attending the jubilee.