Three-day diocesan vocation camp was held from September 29 to October 2 at St. Joseph’s Parish, Chumukedima.
In the inaugural function Bishop James Thoppil, the Bishop of Kohima addressed the campers, wherein he exhorted young boys and girls to be generous and fervent in prayer. He asked the children to pray, reflect and discern the will of God. On day one, reflection was on the theme, “Prayer” by Rev. Fr. Sajan Joseph, parish priest, St. Joseph Church, Chumukedima where he emphasized on the importance of prayer. Rev. Fr. John Nchumbemo addressed the camper on the topic vocations, the gift of the Love of God. Rev. Sr. Rita Miasalhou, SCCG, the superior of Holy Redeemer Health Centre, stressed on the church in the service of humanity. Stephen Angami, in his address said that worldly things and its attractions were short lived but doing God’s will bring true happiness and joy to all.
Rev. Fr. John Poji, vice principal of NEISSR (MSW), Dimapur officiated the Holy Mass on September 30. The camp was organized for the students of class 7 to 12 comprising both boys and girls. Altogether 92 participants from 16 parishes of the diocese attended the camp. Earlier Rev. Fr. Sajan Joseph, the parish priest, St. Joseph’s parish accorded welcome note. Rev. Fr. Renthungo Victor, vocation promoter, Diocese of Kohima, introduced the purpose of the program. Deliberating on ‘Vocation in the Local Church Rev. Fr. Marius Zachamo Patton highlighted means of having the courage, through an attentive and suitable concern for vocations to point out this challenging way of following Christ which has a rich meaning and has the capability of engaging one’s whole life. He also urged children to pray continuously to find that inner desire. Meanwhile, On October 1, Rev. Fr. Carolus Neisalhou, Vicar General, Diocese of Kohimain his homily referred to the Sunday’s reading and said God respects one’s freedom of choice and gives us opportunity to do go in life.
He said only people with total commitment and willingness to sacrifice their lives can win the world for Him. He mentioned of being static in one’s actions as one’s words corresponds one’s deed. The camp ended with a get together, where varieties of items presented by the groups. Fr. Renthungo Victor expressed gratitude to the participants, Fathers, Sisters, Good Shepherd Brothers of Dimapur, religious men and women and particularly to the St. Joseph’s Parish Community, Chumukedima and to all well wishers who contributed to make the camp a grand success.