The second edition of the Young Catholic Students (YCS) Convention commenced on Friday at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral in Kohima, with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil.
The three-day event is being held under the theme “Gen-Z for a Self-Sustaining World.”
In his homily, Bishop Thoppil reflected on the Gospel passage, noting that Peter, burdened by guilt after denying Jesus, may have returned to fishing in search of comfort or escape. However, after a fruitless night, the disciples encountered the Lord, who guided them to cast their nets again, leading to an abundant catch.
The Bishop highlighted three significant actions of Peter that symbolise his inner transformation. First, Peter clothes himself before approaching Jesus, signifying the restoration of dignity through grace after sin. Second, he jumps into the sea and swims toward Jesus, representing repentance, purification, and renewal, much like baptism. Third, Peter brings the catch to Jesus, symbolising the mission of the Church to bring people to God.
Drawing parallels to everyday life, the Bishop reminded the faithful that while human beings are prone to mistakes and weakness, the presence of Jesus restores rather than condemns. He further emphasised that the sharing of bread and fish reflects the Eucharist, where relationships are restored and communion renewed.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the inaugural session was held at Jubilee Hall. Addressing the gathering, Bishop Thoppil expressed joy at being with the young participants and described them as “Gen Z pilgrims of hope for a holistic life and a sustainable world.”
He reminded the youth that they are not just the future but the present of the Church. He encouraged them to recognise the value of ordinary life, noting that holiness is not reserved for extraordinary individuals but is found in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love.
Highlighting the mission of the YCS movement, he said it aims to evangelise and transform the student community by fostering leadership, social responsibility, and a commitment to justice, peace, and global solidarity. He also introduced the YCS methodology of “See, Judge, Act, Evaluate,” which helps students reflect on life, understand realities, and take meaningful action for societal change.
Referring to Carlo Acutis, the Bishop pointed out that holiness can be lived in everyday settings such as classrooms, playgrounds, and social spaces. He urged the youth to remain authentic, cultivate moments of silence to listen to God, and serve others with compassion.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by young people today, including social media pressure, peer influence, and mental health struggles, he encouraged them to remain steadfast as “pilgrims of hope,” trusting in God’s presence and guidance.
Delivering a motivational message, Rosou Ronald Pohena, President of the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM), urged the participants to seek God’s approval rather than worldly recognition. He emphasised valuing God’s blessings over social media validation and encouraged the youth to integrate faith into their daily lives.
Rev. Sr. Mariyam Chothe Khiyang, YCS Coordinator, Kohima Diocese, informed that YCS is a movement for students aged 13 to 18 under the banner of NCYM, Diocese of Kohima. She stated that over 200 students from seven parishes are participating in the convention.
The participating parishes include St. Dominic Savio, Chiephobozou; St. Joseph’s Parish, Tseminyu; St. Peter’s Parish, Tesophenyu; St. Francis de Sales Parish, Kohima; Mary Help of Christians Cathedral; Holy Cross Parish, Dimapur; and St. Anthony’s Centre, Tenyiphe.
