The second Young Catholic Students Convention begins in Kohima, focusing on holistic life and a sustainable world.
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DIMAPUR — The second edition of the Young Catholic Students (YCS) Convention commenced at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima, on April 10, with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima.
The three-day event is being held on the theme “Gen-Z for a self-sustaining world”.
In his message, Bishop Thoppil reminded the congregation that while human beings are prone to mistakes and weakness, the presence of Jesus restores rather than condemns. He further stated that the sharing of bread and fish reflects the Eucharist, where relationships are restored and communion renewed.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the inaugural session was held at Jubilee Hall. Addressing the gathering, Bishop Thoppil expressed joy at being with the young participants and described them as “Gen Z pilgrims of hope for a holistic life and a sustainable world".
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He reminded the youth that they are not just the future but the present of the Church. He encouraged them to recognise the value of ordinary life, noting that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary individuals but is found in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love.
Highlighting the mission of the YCS movement, he said it aims to evangelise and transform the student community by fostering leadership, social responsibility, and a commitment to justice, peace, and global solidarity.
He also introduced the YCS methodology of “see, judge, act, evaluate", which, he said, helps students reflect on life, understand realities, and take meaningful action for societal change.
He pointed out that holiness can be lived in everyday settings such as classrooms, playgrounds, and social spaces. He urged the youth to remain authentic, cultivate moments of silence to listen to God, and serve others with compassion.
Delivering a motivational message, Dr. Rosou Ronald Pohena, President of the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM), urged the participants to seek God’s approval rather than worldly recognition. He highlighted valuing God’s blessings over social media validation and encouraged the youth to integrate faith into their daily lives.
Rev. Sr. Mariyam Chothe Khiyang, YCS Coordinator for Kohima Diocese, informed that YCS is a movement for students aged 13 to 18 under the banner of NCYM, Diocese of Kohima. She stated that over 200 students from seven parishes are participating in the convention.
The participating parishes include St. Dominic Savio, Chiephobozou; St. Joseph’s Parish, Tseminyu; St. Peter’s Parish, Tesophenyu; St. Francis de Sales Parish, Kohima; Mary Help of Christians Cathedral; Holy Cross Parish, Dimapur; and St. Anthony’s Centre, Tenyiphe.