India: Imphal Men’s Seminar Highlights Men’s Roles as Husbands, Fathers and Catholics

About 200 men gathered at Xavier's Parish, Makhan, in northeastern India's Manipur state, for the Second Men's Seminar of the Archdiocese of Imphal, focusing on their roles as husbands, fathers and Catholics and their responsibilities toward the Church and society.

Held September 25-26 under the theme, "Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong" from 1 Corinthians 16:13, the seminar featured talks, group discussions and activities addressing family life, Christian faith, personal discipline and community responsibility.

SP Peter described men as pillars of the family and the Church and outlined four areas of responsibility: treating one's wife as an equal companion, guiding children with love, contributing to the Church and community, and maintaining personal integrity and dignity.

He also emphasized self-control and personal discipline as essential qualities for men seeking to fulfill their responsibilities within their families and communities.

Fr. Adaziio Jaochim, SDB, encouraged participants to listen to others with humility rather than assuming that their own views were always right. He urged them to look beyond social recognition and remain conscious of their accountability before God.

"What matters is the salvation and the accountability with the Creator," he said.

Group discussions followed the presentations, giving participants an opportunity to reflect on the topics and share their experiences.

Mr. Lohrii Nenuo Joseph focused on the role of fathers, highlighting stability, responsibility and dignity as important qualities of fatherhood. He said responsible fathers contribute to respectful and stable families, which in turn help build orderly and peaceful communities.

The seminar also called on the participants to strengthen their Catholic identity through Scripture, prayer and active participation in the life of the Church. Speakers encouraged the men to move beyond attending religious activities and allow their faith to shape their decisions, family relationships and service to others.

Reflecting on Christ's words to Peter, "You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church," the speakers encouraged the men to remain faithful to the Church and take an active role in its mission.

Family relationships were another focus of the seminar. Loli Athisii Moses spoke about forgiveness, particularly within families and toward parents, describing forgiveness as an important part of Christian life and personal growth.

The two-day program concluded with a singing competition and debate, providing opportunities for fellowship and interaction among the participants.

The Archdiocese of Imphal serves Catholics in Manipur, a northeastern Indian state bordering Myanmar. In the region's diverse communities, the Church's pastoral ministry includes strengthening family life and encouraging lay Catholics to participate actively in the life and mission of the Church.

Participants described the seminar as a timely opportunity to reflect on their responsibilities as husbands, fathers, Catholics and members of society.