- 13 August, 2025
Imphal, August 13, 2025: The Manipur Catholic Youth Organisation (MCYO) marked National Youth Sunday with a vibrant celebration combining liturgy, animation, and sports, drawing over a hundred youths from parishes across Imphal. St. Paul’s Parish, Sangaiprou, warmly hosted the event, welcoming participants and parishioners alike. The theme for the celebration was: “You also are my witnesses, because you’ve been with me” – John 15:27.
The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Varghese Velickakam, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Imphal, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Ningmei Thomas, Rev. Fr. William Veilouni, and Rev. Fr. Jacob Darsongam. In his homily, Fr. Varghese urged the youth to be beacons of hope and change, living their Christian mission with courage and commitment.
Rev. Fr. Jacob Darsongam, MCYO Director, led a short animation session, assisted by Mr. Gopen Moses, a successful entrepreneur. Ms. Daina Leivon, MCYO Information Secretary, kicked off the session with an ice-breaking dance. Mr. Moses recounted his journey from selling water after leaving a prestigious job to becoming one of the state’s leading businessmen. Once called “mad” by others, he embraced the label as “Making A Difference,” demonstrating how vision and determination can turn challenges into triumphs. He encouraged youth to explore entrepreneurship, saying, “If you want to be an entrepreneur, get up early. Do things that can stand on their own and help people.”
Adding further motivation, Mr. Napoleon Rongmei, former MCYO President and current District Forest Officer of Kamjong, urged participants to break free from traditional limitations and actively pursue growth and service.
Friendly competitions in men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball kept the crowd cheering. Fr. Immanuel Kholi and Fr. William Veilouni energised the matches by playing for the MCYO volleyball and football teams. In the men’s events, Vianney Home Boys from St. Joseph’s School triumphed over CYF Chingmeirong in the volleyball final, while CYF Lamphel secured victory against the Vianney Hostel Boys in basketball.
Prizes were distributed, and gratitude was expressed to Rev. Fr. Joy Kurian, Parish Priest of St. Paul’s Parish, and Rev. Fr. Bonio Frederick, Principal of St. Joseph’s School, for their generous hospitality. Participants also enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by the host parish.
The celebration fostered fellowship, sportsmanship, and faith, uniting the youth in joy as witnesses for Christ and builders of God’s Kingdom.
By Maximillian Pamei,
General Secretary, MCYO
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