On September 7, 2025, the capital witnessed the 33rd Freshers’ Social Meet of the North East Catholic Community of Delhi (NECCOD), bringing together representatives from all eight northeastern states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura.
Anchored on the theme “Chosen and Called,” the event featured Pu Lalduhoma, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, as chief guest, along with Lucas L. Kamsuan, Joint Secretary in the Department of Public Enterprise, Ministry of Finance, Government of India.
The solemn Holy Eucharist was presided over by Archbishop Anil J.T. Couto of Delhi and concelebrated by Fr. Vijay Baretto, Chaplain of NECCOD; Fr. Rajkumar, SJ, Principal of Vidya Jyoti College of Theology; Fr. Sanjiv Ekka of the Diocese of Dibrugarh; Fr. Boniface, SJ, Spiritual Father and Professor at Vidya Jyoti College of Theology; Fr. Hector, SJ, Treasurer of Vidya Jyoti Jesuit Residence; and Fr. Albert Leivon, former director of MCYO, Archdiocese of Imphal.
In his homily, Archbishop Couto emphasized the importance of being wise in preparing for life, drawing from Luke 14:25–33. He reminded the faithful that one must not begin a project without the intention to complete it, urging all to build their lives with Christ as the sure foundation that leads to eternal life.
Cultural performances showcased the vibrant traditions of each northeastern state, symbolizing peace, diversity, and unity.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma praised NECCOD for its mission since 1990, highlighting its vital role in providing spiritual nourishment and guidance to thousands in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). With over 2,000 members, he noted, NECCOD’s growth is a testament to its unity and commitment. He encouraged students to embrace honesty, hard work, humility, and respect.
He further reflected on the contributions of the Catholic Church in Mizoram and India, citing the establishment of St. Paul’s High School in 1953 as a landmark in education that has transformed countless lives.
“Despite a Catholic population of only around 20,000 in Mizoram, the Church has made remarkable contributions in education, healthcare, and social services,” he said. “Organizations like the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa, provide essential support to the vulnerable. The Catholic Church continues to set a high standard for education and social development in India.”
The celebration, held at the Millennium Hall of St. Xavier’s Sr. Secondary School in Raj Niwas Marg, Civil Lines, New Delhi, drew more than 700 participants, including priests, religious sisters, professionals, and students from Northeast Catholic communities across the city.
The Freshers’ Meet offered a colorful blend of newcomers and long-time members, many wearing traditional attire that expressed both cultural pride and the spirit of unity, reminding all that even far from home, a shared faith and fellowship create belonging.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
Latest News
