Officials along with the participants during the Kohima Diocese Youth Leaders Retreat-cum-CEC Meet 2026 held at Mount Tabor Retreat House, Kohima on February 15.
Kohima, February 15 (MExN): The Kohima Diocese Youth Leaders Retreat-cum-CEC Meet 2026 of the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) was held from February 13 to 15 at Mount Tabor Retreat House, Kohima, under the theme "Courageous Witness: Living Hope in Christ."
An update informed that the 3-day gathering brought together diocesan youth leaders and Central Executive Council (CEC) members from across the Diocese. The retreat was organised with the objective of fostering spiritual renewal, strengthening leadership commitment, and discerning the future direction of youth ministry within the Diocese.
The inaugural Holy Eucharist was presided over by Rev Fr Kokto Kurian, Diocesan Youth Director (DYD). In his homily, Kurian emphasised that “we are called to lead our fellow youth, and leadership is fundamentally a mission of service.” He further reminded the gathering that a leader formed by Christ learns to pause, to listen attentively, and to discern before acting, allowing the Lord to guide every decision and action.
The retreat was animated by Rev Fr Thomas SDB, Novice Master, who reflected on Jesus' leadership, our response to emulate his servant leadership and the need for leaders to repent and convert like St. Peter did.
Dr Johnny Ruangmei, CAN President, Dr John Murry, Public Leader & Mhonbeni Florence addressed the Youth Leaders focusing on leadership rooted in faith, responsible stewardship, collaborative ministry, and the role of youth as courageous witnesses in today’s Church and society.
A significant highlight of the gathering was the presence and pastoral guidance of His Lordship, Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, who presided the Holy Eucharist and addressed the youth leaders. Thoppil encouraged them to remain steadfast in faith, united in mission, and committed to authentic Christian witness. He also called on the youth to resolve issues case by case with objective justice as the standard rather than pulling in groups and tribes.
The event witnessed the participation of representatives from 24 Parishes/Centres and 4 Tribal Associations across the Diocese. A total of 54 youth leaders attended the programme, demonstrating active engagement and a strong sense of responsibility towards the mission of youth ministry in the Diocese.
