Gen-Z youth have been described as “pilgrims of hope for a holistic life and a sustainable world” as the second edition of the Young Catholic Students (YCS) Convention commenced April 10 at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima. The three-day event is being held under the theme “Gen-Z for a Self-Sustaining World.”
Presiding over the inaugural Holy Eucharist, Bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, reflected on Peter’s return to fishing after denying Jesus, noting that despite a fruitless night, the Lord guided the disciples to an abundant catch. He explained Peter’s actions—clothing himself as a sign of restored dignity through grace, jumping into the sea as repentance and renewal akin to baptism, and bringing the catch to Jesus as the mission of the Church to bring people to God.
Drawing parallels to daily life, the Bishop said that while people are prone to weakness, the presence of Jesus restores rather than condemns. He added that the sharing of bread and fish reflects the Eucharist, where relationships are renewed and communion restored.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the inaugural session was held at Jubilee Hall, where Bishop Thoppil described the young participants as “Gen Z pilgrims of hope for a holistic life and a sustainable world.” He reminded the youth that they are not just the future but the present of the Church, encouraging them to find holiness in ordinary life by doing ordinary things with extraordinary love.
Highlighting the mission of YCS, he said the movement seeks to evangelise and transform the student community by fostering leadership, social responsibility, and commitment to justice, peace and global solidarity. He introduced the YCS methodology of “See, Judge, Act, Evaluate” to help students reflect on life, understand realities, and take meaningful action for societal change.
Referring to Blessed Carlo Acutis, Bishop Thoppil said holiness can be lived in everyday settings and urged the youth to remain authentic, cultivate silence to listen to God, and serve others with compassion. Acknowledging challenges such as social media pressure, peer influence and mental health struggles, he encouraged them to remain steadfast as “pilgrims of hope,” trusting in God’s presence and guidance.
Over 200 students from seven parishes are participating in the convention, including St. Dominic Savio, Chiephobozou; St. Joseph’s Parish, Tseminyu; St. Peter’s Parish, Tesophenyu; St. Francis de Sales Parish, Kohima; Mary Help of Christians Cathedral; Holy Cross Parish, Dimapur; and St. Anthony’s Centre, Tenyiphe.
A motivational message was also delivered by NCYM president, Dr. Rosou Ronald Pohena.
