The 5th Regional Youth Convention (RYC), organised by the North Eastern Regional Youth Commission (NERYC) at the Mary Help of Christians Cathedral Kohima, concluded on Monday following four days of prayer, reflection, and fellowship. The closing day was marked by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist with Most Rev. Benny Varghese, Bishop of the Itanagar Diocese, as the main celebrant.

In his homily, Bishop Varghese recalled his long pastoral journey- 36 years of service as a priest in the Diocese of Kohima before his transfer to Tripura.

Addressing the youth, he spoke of the pivotal role they play in shaping the future, urging them to seek and follow God’s unique will for each of their lives.

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He recounted the early presence of the Catholic Church in Arunachal Pradesh during a period when many Indian states had enacted anti-conversion laws.  The bishop also evoked a historical moment during the inauguration of the Cathedral in Kohima, where Japanese and British individuals—former adversaries in the Second World War—shook hands in a gesture of peace and reconciliation, at the Cathedral Kohima.

Bishop Varghese emphasised the importance of building a personal relationship with God and encouraged the young delegates to return to their parishes with a renewed sense of service and compassion.

The convention officially drew to a close with the ceremonial lowering of the convention flag by Nagaland Transport Commissioner, Elias T Lotha.

Hosted by the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) at the Kohima Cathedral, the 5th RYC brought together over 2,000 youth from 15 dioceses across the Northeast, fostering dialogue and faith among a new generation of Christians in the region.