EMN
Dimapur, January 9
The Catholic Youth Association of Khonoma in Kohima celebrated its golden jubilee with Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima as the main celebrant on January 9 with many priests concelebrating the mass. The Jubilee theme was “The Capacity we have comes from God.” 2Cor. 3:5
Rev. Fr. Paul Thungbemo, principal of Queen Mary Higher Secondary School of Mokokchung, unfurled the “jubilee flag” and the jubilee choir sang the jubilee anthem., a press release from the organizers on Saturday, January 9.
The Eucharist began with the lighting of the Jubilee lamb by Krusalie Petrus Sophi, the Catechist. Mr. Megokolie George Pier accorded the words of welcome and delivered the Jubilee greetings.
Bishop in his homily said that the youth today are also confronted with movements that promote spirituality apart from the Church, the sacraments and worship. New forms of youth group are being created which place emphasis on the individual, one’s emotions and social conditions, rather than on Jesus Christ and the means he left us for experiencing intimately his mercy, grace and love. “The temptation to follow such movements and communities is on the rise. Today it is the culture of death that is overpowering the youth of today. Yet, amidst all these confusions, the youth are searching for truth and meaning in life,” bishop said.
“It is Christ and the Christian faith that give true meaning and purpose in life. We have accepted Christ on the day our baptism. On the day of our baptism, as St. John Paul II explains, ‘we were anointed with the oil of catechumens, the sign of Christ’s gentle strength, given to us to fight against evil’.”
The speaker also said that the “Blessed water was poured over us and effective sign of interior purification thorough the gift of the Holy Spirit. We were then anointed with chrism to show that we were thus consecrated in the image of Jesus the Father’s anointed one.”
The press release stated further the speaker’s sermon: ‘The candle lighted from the Paschal candle was a symbol of the light of faith which our parents and godparents must have continually safeguarded and nourished with the life-giving grace of the Spirit. This is also a day to renew our baptismal vows by consecrating ourselves to the Holy Trinity and “by rejecting Satan and all his empty promises,” which our profane world is constantly offering us. Our prayer should be to make us ever faithful to our Baptismal promises. The celebration of the Golden Jubilee be an occasion to spur you on once again to real Catholic Christian life. Bishop urged to rediscover the content of faith and lead into a radical new life in Christ, withstanding all the worldly attractions.’
Vihulie Victus, translated the Bishop’s homily. The Jubilee Choir of Catholic Youth Association, Khonoma sang songs during the Holy Mass. They also presented a special song during the felicitation programme. Bishop released the Jubilee Souvenir. Keviseto Kenneth and Cakholie Christopher proposed vote of thanks in different programmes.
Mhiesinguto Mark and Medozevi Christopher were the anchors for different programmes. There was also a session in the afternoon during which Rokosekho Ronald Meru was the resource person. Baptist Khriesarüü Krotho (BKK), Khonoma presented the special item. The programme ended with the jubilee meal served to all.
