SZCYA celebrates golden jubilee

SECHU ZUBZA — Sechü Zubza Catholic Youth Association (SZCYA) on December 27 celebrated its golden jubilee on the theme “Setting an example for the believers” (1Timothy 4:12).

During the eucharistic celebration, Rev. Fr. Neisalhou Carolus Kuotsu, vicar general of the Diocese of Kohima, presided over the mass as the celebrant, who was joined by several priests at the picturesque St. Maria Goretti Church in Sechü Zubza.

While delivering a sermon, Fr. Carolus Kuotsu congratulated SZCYA on reaching the significant milestone. He has emphasised the concepts of liberation, restoration, and reconciliation associated with the jubilee.

The senior priest also expressed concerns about corruption within a Christian state like Nagaland, while questioning the alignment of such practices with Christian values.

Drawing parallels, Fr. Kuotsu likened the celebration to the Angami traditional shawl “Lohe” noting its three essential colours—red, black, and green. He conveyed that just like the missing colour affects the shawl’s identity, the absence of liberation, reconciliation, or restoration would diminish the essence of the jubilee.

Acknowledging the late arrival of Catholic faith in Nagaland and its prevalence among the socially least privileged, Fr. Kuotsu encouraged SZCYA not to be disheartened. He has encouraged spreading Catholicism among the marginalised and urged them to embrace their faith resolutely and be beacons for others to recognise the unity of their shared divine faith.

While commending SZCYA for achieving this significant milestone, he emphasised the challenges of maintaining an association amid life’s fluctuations. He also announced that the Angami Catholic Youth Association would celebrate its golden jubilee at St. Maria Goretti Church in the following month.

He encouraged SZCYA members to steadfastly strengthen their faith and to move forward with unwavering conviction. He further urged them to delve into the true significance of their golden jubilee and move forward with a profound understanding.

Medopra Lucas Rino lit the symbolic jubilee candle, while Rokoseno Christina Chase and Rüülhounuo Rita Pier read the Scriptures.

Kelhoulebi Charles Suokhrie administered the prayer of the faithful, while the jubilee choir presented songs.

After the mass, Rev. Fr. Joseph Nellisseril SDB, parish priest of St. Maria Goretti Church, released the jubilee souvenir.

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