Parish priest outlines roles of catechists

KOHIMA — The assistant parish priest of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Kohima town, Rev. Fr. Vinod Varghese, underscored the need for catechists to understand that they are essentially signposts guiding people towards the destination called ‘Christ.’

Rev. Fr. Varghese stated this in his homily at the parish church on the occasion of Catechists Day on Sunday. He reminded the catechists and church leaders that people don’t expect silver, gold, or money from them but instead to encounter Christ above all else. In this context, he underscored the need for catechists to understand that they are essentially signposts guiding people towards the destination called Christ.

“We must be able to share Christ with others we meet and lead them to Him,” Rev. Fr. Varghese said. He also referred to the day’s scripture as a reminder for priests, catechists, and church leaders to embody sincerity and honesty, mirroring the qualities of Christ.

During the event, six dedicated catechists of St. Francis de Sales Parish were felicitated. They are Abel Lotha, who serves the Lotha community; Binacius Tigga representing the Adivasi community; Anthony Dukru for the Chakhesang community; Francis Ruangmei for the Rongmei community; Dominic Buni for the Poumai community; and Francis P Kiewhuo for the Angami community.

In an interview with Eastern Mirror after the Sunday service, Francis P Kiewhuo shared on his calling to become a catechist and dedicate his life to spreading the Gospel to those in need.

He said, “I became a catechist because it’s my vocation, which God had prepared for me. Additionally, my father is a catechist and I was raised in such an environment.”

“The work of spreading the Gospel itself inspires me to be who I am today. It’s a divine gift for me, made possible through the prayers of different people and the community,” Kiewhuo added.

Reflecting on the most rewarding aspect of being a catechist, Kiewhuo highlighted the peace and comfort he find in his work while connecting with individuals who love God, which automatically led to kind words and good deeds.

In his advice to those who aspire to become catechists, Kiewhuo said, “Being a catechist is a sure path to engaging in spiritual warfare for laypeople like me. We become channels of God’s grace for those who have strayed from the love of God and His church, bridging the gap between the laity and the clergy of the mother church.”

Ruokuovituo Robert Rutsa, a catechist at Christ The King Church in Kohima village, also shared his journey and motivation.

“I became a catechist at an early age, and witnessing the dedication of my seniors in service for the church and the people had a profound impact on my life,” he said.

He shared how he finds the most rewarding aspect of being a catechist in witnessing people grows in their faith and draw closer to the living God. He also encouraged others not to be afraid to spread the Good News.

“Working for the Lord is a beautiful and fulfilling service. One should not hesitate to share the Good News,” Rutsa concluded.

There are more than 300 catechists who are actively involved in taking care of the Catholic community under the Kohima diocese.

Catechist is a lay person specially appointed by the church in accordance with local needs to make Christ known, loved and followed by those who have not yet know Him.

In another programme, St. Francis De Sales Parish in Kohima town also observed World Sunday Day on the theme “Let the little children come to me” (Matthew 19:14).

Speaking at the event, Rev. Fr. Vinod Varghese, expressed gratitude to God for the precious gift of the children and the dedicated teachers who have nurtured and guided them throughout the year.

To mark the event, group song competition was organised for the children, wherein prizes were awarded to the winners. The event also saw recognition accorded to children who consistently attended the Catechism classes held on Sundays.

Altogether, 150 children attended the programme.

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