Tura Diocese Hosts 17th Zonal Youth Convention at Babadam, Meghalaya

Babadam, Meghalaya, May 15, 2025: The Diocese of Tura in Meghalaya successfully organised the 17th Zonal Youth Convention of the Tura Zone from 9 to 11 May 2025 at St. Mother Teresa Church, Babadam. The event witnessed the participation of 239 youths from 10 parishes of the zone, alongside a few members of the Diocesan and Zonal Executive Committees. The convention was organised with the aim of fostering spiritual growth, fellowship, and leadership among young Catholics in the region.

The convention commenced on May 9 with a ceremonial hoisting of the flag and lighting of the lamp by Fr. John Durei from Chennai. Fr. Lyndoh T. Sangma, Diocesan Youth Director; Fr. Vincent M. Sangma, Assistant Youth Director; Fr. Bilseng Ch. Sangma, Zonal Youth Animator; Fr. John Bosco, Parish Priest of Babadam; three Fathers from Chennai; and two Fathers from Kerala also participated in the lamp-lighting ceremony. The youths of Babadam parish presented a lively inaugural programme, followed by the celebration of Holy Mass led by Fr. John Kurian from Chennai.

The convention continued on May 10 with a morning Mass celebrated by Fr. John Bosco. This was followed by a series of engaging sessions led by various speakers, along with games and animations designed to energise and unite all the participants. Youth leaders of 10 parishes presented their respective Zonal Action Plans and Resolutions for 2024–2025. St. Anthony's Church, Jengjal Parish, received the Best Zonal Report Award in recognition of their outstanding contribution. The evening concluded with a vibrant Marian procession, during which participants reverently carried the statue of Mother Mary from the school campus to the church amidst the singing of hymns.

The final day of the convention began with an early morning prayer followed by a motivational session designed to inspire the youth. The spiritual highlight of the day was the Holy Mass, celebrated by Rt. Rev. Andrew R. Marak, Bishop of Tura, together with four accompanying priests.

The convention concluded with a closing ceremony, where Fr. Vincent M. Sangma delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks. He expressed deep gratitude to Bishop Andrew R. Marak, the visiting priests from Kerala and Chennai, and the local clergy, including Fr. John Bosco and Fr. Bilseng Ch. Sangma, for their contributions to the event. He also commended the dedication and enthusiasm of all participants, which made the event a resounding success.

By Arnitha