Pilgrims of Hope: A Symphony of Faith, Culture, and Youthful Zeal at the
5th ICYM North East Regional Youth Convention The city of Kohima in Nagaland witnessed a vibrant explosion of
faith, culture, and youthful enthusiasm from June 27–30, 2025, as the
5th ICYM North East Regional Youth Convention was hosted at Mary Help of
Christians Cathedral. Over 3000 youth delegates from the 15 dioceses of
Northeast India converged for this historic event, united under the
theme: “Pilgrims of Hope.”
From colorful traditional attires and dances to deeply spiritual moments
and thought-provoking sessions, the convention stood as a living
testimony to unity in diversity, showcasing the richness of Northeast
Indian cultures interwoven with the fabric of the Catholic faith.
THEME & PURPOSE: Walking Together in Faith The theme “Pilgrims of Hope” was more than just a slogan — it was a
reality lived out over four transformative days. Inspired by Isaiah
40:31, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength,” the event
aimed to renew the spirit of young Catholics to be radiant witnesses of
Christ in today’s world — within their cultural, social, and digital
spheres.
The purpose of the convention was threefold:
• To revitalize the spiritual identity of youth in Northeast India.
• To build bridges across cultural and linguistic divides.
• To empower youth as the “Now” of the Church with knowledge,
leadership, and mission.
From Eucharistic celebrations to engaging workshops and vibrant cultural
evenings, every moment was crafted to foster faith, fraternity, and
formation.
Sessions and Resource Persons The convention’s schedule was a masterclass in organization and
substance. A lineup of resource persons shared deep reflections on
topics close to the heart of today’s youth:
• Fr. Vekupa George addressed “Identity and Purpose of Youth in Christ,”
emphasizing sacraments as anchors in life.
• Fr. Joseph M. Thohrii guided the youth on “Pilgrims of Hope: Moving
Forward in Synodality.”
• Ms. Edlina Kerketta, psychiatric social worker and PhD scholar,
offered insights on mental health and peer pressure.
• Fr. Michael Makri SDB provided a roadmap for young digital Catholics
through “Christian Apologetics and Social Media Navigation.”
A Panel Discussion on Day 3 addressed critical issues such as drug
abuse, youth relationships, and digital evangelization, featuring
panelists like Dr. Johnny Raungmei, Mr. Ketholelie Basil, and Ms.
Jeremai Krong.
DIVERSE YET ONE: Northeast in Full Bloom The cultural evenings were among the most captivating highlights,
offering a kaleidoscope of Northeast India’s ethnic and artistic
diversity. Each diocese brought to life their indigenous heritage
through dance, attire, and music:
• Naga shawls and bamboo headgear,
• Mizo and Khasi folk songs,
• Garo and Ao traditional dances,
• Assamese mekhela chador and Tiwa art forms.
Despite such rich diversity, the message was clear: “We are one Church,
one body in Christ.” The Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM), as the
gracious host, provided a platform where every culture was honoured and
celebrated in faith.
The setting at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, blending Gothic
architecture with Naga craftsmanship, symbolized the deep harmony
between culture and Catholicism.
ROOTED IN CHRIST: Prayer, Eucharist, and Reflection Each day began in prayer and ended with the celebration of the Holy
Eucharist, presided over by esteemed bishops:
• Most Rev. Dr. Linus Neli (Imphal) – Opening Mass
• Most Rev. John Moolachira (Guwahati)
• Most Rev. James Thoppil (Kohima)
• Most Rev. Benny Varghese (Itanagar) – Closing Mass
The Taizé prayer service, led by Shillong Archdiocese, invited profound
reflection and personal conversion, drawing many hearts to the Sacrament
of Reconciliation.
Each Eucharist carried a unique theme:
• “Pilgrims of Hope”
• “You are My Witnesses”
• “Path to Faith – Revelation”
• “Live His Life – Do His Will”
The liturgical celebrations were coordinated by different dioceses,
encouraging shared participation and ownership.
FRANCISCAN WITNESS: Presence of the Capuchins
An unforgettable aspect of the convention was the inspiring presence of
the Capuchin friars — Fr. Stephen D’Souza, Fr. Justin Sumi, and Fr.
Anthony Melwyn. Their simple yet powerful witness to the Franciscan way
of life deeply resonated with the youth.
Through their joyful presence, spiritual guidance, and authentic
brotherhood, the Capuchins embodied the Gospel values of humility,
peace, and fraternity, drawing the attention of young minds toward a
life rooted in Christ and service.
Their contribution reminded the delegates that holiness is found in
simplicity, and that the Church needs joyful witnesses more than ever.
THE CHURCH: One Heart, Many Voices
The convention emphasized not just listening but also leading. During
the Annual General Body Meeting (AGBM), award ceremony, and election
sessions, youth were called to be responsible leaders, not just passive
participants.
In his message, Mr. Huimingam Jonah Chithung, Regional Youth President,
proclaimed:
“The courage and the hope that the Almighty empowers the youth is a
bright spark that ignites change – for self, for the Church, and for the
world.”
Rev. Fr. Kokto Kurian, the Diocesan Youth Director of Kohima, along with
NCYM, ensured a flawless organization — marked by hospitality,
discipline, punctuality, cleanliness, and spiritual depth.
A JOURNEY OF HOPE As the flags were lowered on June 30, emotions were high — not of
ending, but of new beginnings. The 5th ICYM NE Regional Youth Convention
was not merely a gathering; it was a pilgrimage of hearts, a symphony of
cultures, and a celebration of youthful faith.
It reminded every young Catholic that:
• Hope is alive in the Church,
• Faith and culture can walk hand in hand, and
• Youth are not just the future — they are the present of the Church.
The voice of the youth is powerful. May they continue to raise it for
truth, peace, and love as true Pilgrims of Hope.
