Archbishop of Guwahati leads Holy Eucharist at Regional Youth Convention

DIMAPUR — The second day of the 5th Regional Youth Convention (RYC) at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima, witnessed the Holy Eucharist led by Rev. Fr. John Moolachira, Archbishop of Guwahati.

According to an update, the first session of the day was led by Rev. Fr. Vekupa George, parish priest of Sacred Heart Parish, Chizami, as the speaker, dwelling on the topic “Identity and purpose of youth in Christ through Holy Sacraments”.

Addressing a gathering, Fr. Vekupa emphasised that the sacraments are not mere rituals but life-giving channels of God’s grace. He explained the meaning of sacraments as comprising three elements—an external sign, inward grace, and institution by Christ—distinguishing them from sacramentals.

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With a reminder of the story of a man from the Garo Hills who composed the hymn “I Have Decided to Follow Jesus” after the tragic martyrdom of his family, Fr. Vekupa invited the youth to reflect on their own commitment to Christ.

He stressed the importance of the Holy Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, encouraging the youth to deepen their love for the Eucharist and the grace of confession.

The second session was led by Rev. Fr. Joseph M Thohrii, who addressed the youth on the theme “Pilgrims of hope, moving forward in synodality”.

With 65% of the Indian population under the age of 35, he noted the immense potential for youth to become agents of transformation within the Church and society.

Touching on the post-COVID return of many youth to their home states, he framed it as a moment of renewed possibility for the Church. Referring to the over 2,000 delegates attending the convention, he urged these youth to become creative contributors to the Church.

The day concluded with a choreography competition. Third place was jointly awarded to the Diphu and Aizawl (Barak Valley) dioceses; second place went to Dibrugarh Diocese, while first position was jointly clinched by the dioceses of Itanagar and Aizawl.

The prizes were handed over by the former Commissioner of Nagaland, Rovilatuo Mor.