Shillong: The North-East India Catechetical Association (NEICA) organised a three-day Regional Catechetical Congress (RCC) at Sacred Heart Theological College (SHTC) in Mawlai from May 17 to 19.
The event centered on the theme ‘Living as Missionary Disciples.’ Fr. Philip Barjo, Rector, SHTC welcomed the gathering followed by a short introduction on RCC by NEICA chairman, Barnes Mawrie.
There were 200 delegates and participants from different parts of North-East India including Shillong.
The inaugural gathering was graced by Fr. Paul Lyngkot Olphindro, the Salesian Provincial of Shillong, followed by session from Dr. Graviour Augustine, Treasurer, Oriens Theological College, Mawlai.
On the final day, the chief guest for the closing ceremony was Dominic Jala, S.D.B, Archbishop of Shillong. Around 600 youths from nearby schools and institutions attended the programme.
“The first regional catechetical congress is a reawakening call for me, especially to discuss, relook and examine the contribution of faith formation in the North East India,” said Maria K Lalhriatpuii one of the participants from Jowai.
Patrick Ngaihte another participant from Mizoram added, “It was a refreshing and rejuvenating occasion for me. Much more than gaining new knowledge it was a kind of reinforcement towards consolidating the faith in the North-East region.”
“The Programme was enriching one with the fitting topics. The topics were necessary and worth to ponder on,” said Kaini Julia from Assam.
A catechetical congress is an international, national, or regional gathering of people which aims to promote an awareness on the role and the importance of catechesis in the life and mission of the Catholic Church.
It helps to improve the understanding and praxis of catechetical ministry. It draws attention to social-cultural challenges which the church encounters and tries to respond to the problems. Besides these, it aims to spark zeal and reinvigorate the priests, religious and lay people in their ministry.