Kohima: The second edition of the Young Catholic Students (YCS) Convention began on Friday at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima, with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima.
The three-day convention is being held under the theme “Gen-Z for a Self-Sustaining World.”
In his homily, Bishop Thoppil reflected on the Gospel passage describing how Peter, burdened by guilt after denying Jesus, returned to fishing in search of comfort or escape. After a fruitless night, however, the disciples encountered the Lord, who guided them to cast their nets again, resulting in an abundant catch.
Highlighting Peter’s inner transformation, the Bishop pointed to three symbolic actions. First, Peter clothed himself before approaching Jesus, signifying the restoration of dignity through grace after sin. Second, he jumped into the sea and swam toward Jesus, representing repentance, purification and renewal, much like baptism. Third, he brought the catch to Jesus, symbolising the mission of the Church to bring people closer to God.
Drawing parallels with 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 added 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 only the future but also the present of the Church. He encouraged them to recognise the value of ordinary life, noting that holiness is found in doing ordinary things with extraordinary love.
Highlighting the mission of the YCS movement, he said it seeks 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 situations, understand realities and take meaningful action for societal change.
Referring to Blessed Carlo Acutis, the Bishop said 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 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.
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Delivering a motivational message, Dr. Rosou Ronald Pohena, president of the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM), urged 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 of Kohima Diocese, informed that the movement is meant for students aged 13 to 18 under the banner of NCYM, Diocese of Kohima. She added 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.
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