Clergy urges faithful to worship the ‘True living God’

LAZAMI — Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese Edathattel, the second bishop of Itanagar Diocese, has called upon the faithful to worship the ‘true living God’ in the person of Christ.

Fr. Varghese stated this at the 10th convention of Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) 2024 held at St. Francis of Assisi Parish at Lazami in Zunheboto district on Sunday on the theme 'You are the now of God.'

Fr. Varghese urged the Catholic youth of Nagaland to be committed to Christ, emphasising the resilience of two lakh Catholics in Arunachal Pradesh, who have committed to embrace Christianity in their lives.

Drawing from his three decades of service in Nagaland, he encouraged the congregation to bringing people closer to Jesus and spread the good news.

The event also saw declaration of new executives of NCYM by Rev. Fr. Vekupa George Rhakho, youth director of NCYM, and blessings by the bishop of Kohima.

An eucharistic procession and a message from Rev. Fr. Philip Magh, president of Diocesan Fraternity and parish priest of St. Peter's Parish Kiphire, was part of the ceremony.

In the second session, Rev. Dr. Sherman Kuek, conveyed greetings from Malaysia and shared his journey to Catholicism. He recounted his journey to Christianity, detailing his initial affiliation with a Protestant church.

"Your commitment to the church is truly inspiring," he remarked and acknowledged the significant impact of their faith.

He praised the commitment of Catholics and apprised them of carry daily Rosary prayers.

Rev. Fr. John Barman, regional youth director of NERYC, spoke on the convention's theme.

The cultural night included captivating folk dances by various parishes and folk fusion performances.

The event would conclude with a holy mass presided over by Rev. Fr. Paul Inashe, parish priest of St. Francis of Assisi Lazami followed with lowering of NCYM flag by Rev. Fr. Vekupa George Rhakho on Monday.