Nagaland: 7th Catholic Women Association conference at Threntsuwong

The 7th Conference of the Catholic Women Association (CWA) was held at Threntsuwong from January 9 to 11 under the theme “Strong Women, Strong Future.” The three-day conference brought together 90 women delegates from six villages — Pungro, New Vongti, Vongwa, Cedeyevong, Khongiri and Threntsuwong.
Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Rev. Fr. Peter Pithungo and Rev. Fr. Mathew Neni served as the resource persons for the conference. On the first day, Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu spoke on the theme “Women Who Made a Difference,” highlighting inspiring women from history and the Bible. He spoke on figures such as Mother Teresa, Kalpana Chawla and Indira Gandhi, as well as biblical women including Esther, Mary, Ruth, Deborah and Hannah. Drawing lessons from their lives, he encouraged women to trust in God’s plan, demonstrate loyalty and devotion, embrace prayer, and step into leadership roles with courage to make a positive impact in society.
Rev. Fr. Mathew Neni, speaking on the theme “Women on Their Knees Keep Their Family Standing,” highlighted the resilience of women who shoulder family responsibilities. He appreciated mothers for their sacrifices and encouraged them to make prayer their strongest weapon, acknowledging the vital role of faith in sustaining families.
Parish priest, Rev. Fr. Peter Pithungo, emphasised the central role of mothers in nurturing and sustaining family life. He reminded mothers to remain deeply rooted in their faith, describing a mother’s love as the strength that enables a family to thrive.
The conference culminated with a solemn Eucharistic celebration on January 11, officiated by Parish priest Rev. Fr. Peter Pithungo, of St. Paul Parish, Pungro, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu. The celebration concluded with cake cutting and a special musical presentation by the parish priest.
The event was organised by the CWA office bearers led by president Catherine Sangsula, vice president Alphonsa Anong, secretary Seraphina Sukyala, joint secretary Esther Sumila, along with Prisca Tsupishe and Leosa Leshela, with the support of executive members from all six villages. During the conference, Elina Keyeholi was elected as vice president, and appreciation was extended to the outgoing vice president Alphonsa Anong. Various competitions, including quizzes, singing and creative performances, were also held among the participating villages.