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Our Correspondent
Kohima, April 11 (EMN): The 32ndAngami Catholic Youth Association (ACYA) convention, which began on Friday, concluded at the Napo conference hall at Chiephobozou on Sunday evening with Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima celebrating the holy Eucharist.
In his homily, the Bishop hoped that the gathering of the Angami catholic youths from 59 villages would not be a mere social gathering but be a “school of Christian discipleship by community celebration of faith”.
Citing biblical references, he urged the youths not to separate themselves from the Christian fellowship. “Great things happen to us within the fellowship of Christ’s church, which will not happen when we are alone,” he said.
He added that the resurrection of Christ had brought the apostles together into one community of fellowship, and had also given a new life, a new relationship with God and one another. He therefore urged the youths to open up themselves and accept a new set of values, relationships and readiness to give rather than have the “determination to grab”.
The Bishop also encouraged the youths to practice the principles of Christ and to proudly profess their faith. He also urged them to be merciful to one another. In this regard, he said “the church is the body of Christ, and as the body of Christ, we must also become mercy personified”.
The celebration of the holy mass concluded with the blessing of the newly elected ACYA team led by Kelhouzasie Lawrence as its president. During the valedictory session, Lawrence assured that the new team of office bearers would work in unity and give its best for the community. He also thanked the elders for their blessings upon the new team.
Meanwhile, outgoing president Zeneikho-o Benedict expressed happiness while exuding confidence that the new team of officers led by its new president may lead the Angami catholic youth force to greater heights.
He also acknowledged the efforts of the host village--St Dominic Savio Church Chiephobozou -- and all who contributed to the success of the convention. He revealed that the next ACYA convention would be held at St. Maria Goretti Church Sechü Zubza.
The three-day long convention concluded with the handing over of the ACYA flag to the president of Western ACYA president Seyiekhotuo Silvanus by the Chiephobozou Catholic Youth Association president Patrick Kiewhuo. It may be noted that the 50 years celebration of the ACYA will coincide with the 33rd ACYA convention.