St. Peter’s Parish, Kiphire, organised a Catholic Youth Seminar for 200 young people to strengthen faith and unity
DIMAPUR — St. Peter’s Parish, Kiphire, organised a day-long Catholic Youth Seminar on October 17, bringing together around 200 young people from eight villages on the theme, “Stand Firm in Your Faith, Be Courageous and Strong.”
The seminar aimed to deepen the spiritual understanding of young Catholics, strengthen their commitment to Christian values and encourage them to become courageous witnesses of Christ in society, an update stated.
Three resource persons delivered sessions on key teachings of the Catholic Church.
Rev. Fr. Vemedo Joseph Kezo, Parish Priest of St. Paul Church, Pungro town, spoke on “Bible and Traditions of the Church,” explaining the inseparable relationship between sacred scripture and sacred tradition and their complementary roles in preserving and transmitting the teachings of the Church.
Rev. Fr. Luke Nagahoto, Assistant Priest of St. Peter’s Parish, Kiphire, spoke on the sacrament of baptism, highlighting its meaning, different types and significance as the foundation of Christian life.
Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu reflected on the sacrament of marriage, emphasising its sacredness, lifelong commitment, mutual love, fidelity and responsibilities within Christian family life.
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Relating his message to the seminar’s theme, he urged the youth to remain steadfast in faith, face life’s challenges courageously and become living witnesses of the Gospel.
An interactive question-and-answer session allowed participants to submit written questions and seek clarification from the resource persons.
The session encouraged active participation and made the discussions more engaging and spiritually enriching.
The programme began with an opening prayer led by Rev. Sr. Tresa Kochumuriyil, followed by a welcome address by Paul, president of the Catholic Youth Movement (CYM).
The sessions were compered by Ato David, Tessy Eathsi, Nyison Justin, Totsala Sharon and Rev. Sr. Martha.
Solo songs, trio presentations, and praise and worship performances by youth from different villages added vibrancy to the gathering.
The Parish Council and women leaders of the parish prepared lunch for the participants.
The seminar concluded with a solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Luke Nagahoto.
In his homily, he encouraged the youth to remain strong in faith and bear witness to Christ through their daily lives.
Participants expressed their appreciation for the seminar, saying it had strengthened their faith, promoted unity and renewed their commitment to Christian living.