India: Manipur Catholic Youth Celebrates National Youth Sunday with Eucharist, Animation, and Sports

The Manipur Catholic Youth Organisation (MCYO) marked National Youth Sunday with a vibrant day of Eucharistic celebration, animation sessions, and spirited sports competitions on Aug 10.

The event gathered over a hundred enthusiastic young people from various parishes in Imphal, warmly hosted by St. Paul’s Parish, Sangaiprou, and its parishioners. The theme for the celebration was “You also are my witnesses, because you’ve been with me” (John 15:27).

The day began with Holy Mass, 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. Their presence brought great encouragement to the gathering.

In his homily, Fr. Varghese urged the young faithful to be beacons of hope and change, living their Christian mission with courage and commitment.

After the Mass, an engaging animation session was conducted by Rev. Fr. Jacob Darsongam, Director of MCYO, with resource person Mr. Gopen Moses, a successful entrepreneur. The session began with an ice-breaking dance led by Ms. Daina Leivon, MCYO Information Secretary.

Mr. Moses shared his inspiring journey from selling water after leaving a prestigious job to becoming one of the leading businessmen in the state. Once called “mad” by others, he redefined it as Making A Difference, showing how vision and determination can turn challenges into triumphs. Encouraging the youth to embrace entrepreneurship, he advised, “If you want to be an entrepreneur, get up early. Do things that can stand on their own and help people.”

Adding to the day’s inspiration, Mr. Napoleon Rongmei, former MCYO President and current District Forest Officer of Kamjong District, urged the youth to break free from traditional limitations and pursue growth and service with purpose.

The atmosphere turned lively as friendly games and sports competitions began. Men’s and women’s basketball and volleyball matches drew cheers from the crowd, with even priests joining in. Fr. Immanuel Kholi and Fr. William Veilouni played alongside the MCYO volleyball and football teams.

In the men’s category, the Vianney Home Boys from St. Joseph’s School clinched the volleyball title against CYF Chingmeirong, while CYF Lamphel won the basketball final against the Vianney Hostel Boys.

The celebration concluded with the distribution of prizes and words of gratitude 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 enjoyed a delicious lunch sponsored by the host parish.

The day was a memorable blend of fellowship, sportsmanship, and faith, uniting the youth as witnesses for Christ and builders of God’s Kingdom.