It was a moment of joy and triumph for the Catholic youths of St. Peter’s Parish, Kiphire and the teaching faculty of Loyola Higher Secondary School, Kiphire when they made it to the peak of Mount Saramati on October 22 and 23 respectively.
According to Rev. Fr. Loyola Antony, Kiphire, scaling the highest peak in Nagaland (12601 feet) was long cherished dream come true for all of them who trekked from October 21-23 overcoming each terrifying mountain with a single focus in mind – Mount Saramati.
There were 36 of them from St. Peter’s Parish, Kiphire and 35 from Loyola Higher Secondary School, Kiphire.
It was not the physical strength alone that enabled the trekkers to reach the top but it was the indomitable spirit with which everyone trailed the rocky cliffs as well as the slippery pathway, said Rev. Fr. Loyola Antony.
The experience as well as the mental framework of the trekkers varied from person to person, he said.
While climbing, he said some of them had the thoughts of giving up and were focusing more on the physical pains. However for a few, it was an occasion for them to prove their calibre, Reverend added.
Further, Rev. Fr. Antony said the greatest joy experienced by all the Catholic youths was not merely reaching the top of the mountain, but the privilege to celebrate the Holy Eucharist on top of the mountain.
Commenting on the experience of climbing the mountain, one of the youths said “It’s once in a life-time experience and I feel great to be part of the many who have climbed this historic peak.”
Another trekker remarked “The joy of having reached the top of Saramati Peak makes me forget all the pains and fears that I went through during the journey…”
The whole episode of climbing the mountain, Rev.Fr. Anthony said was itself a great lesson for those who reached the peak and for those who desired to reach the peak in their life time.
Underlining that life was full of obstacles, Rev. Anthony said if one was determined and focused, blending with God’s grace, then no barriers could dishearten one’s inner strength.
“Climbing Mount Saramati is a visible example for that. And of course, the magnificent Mount Saramati is itself a reminder of God’s Majesty,” said Rev.Fr. Anthony.