What Brought 2,000 Young People Together in Shillong for Faith and Unity?

Around 2,000 young people from diverse ethnic and linguistic communities gathered at Sacred Heart Theological College in Mawlai, Shillong, on September 27 for the college’s Annual Youth Fest. The gathering was held under the theme, “Take Courage; I Have Overcome the World” (John 16:33), and brought together young people from 34 centres served through the Brothers’ Sunday apostolate ministry in different parishes and communities. Participants represented a rich diversity of communities, including Khasi, Hindi, Naga, Kuki, Garo, Mizo, Santhali, Nepali and Boro. The event provided an opportunity for young people from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds to meet, celebrate their faith and strengthen friendships. The day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Paul Olphindro Lyngkot, SDB, Rector and Novice Master of St. Dominic Savio Novitiate at Don Bosco Sunnyside. In his homily, Fr. Paul encouraged the young participants to respect and obey their parents and elders and remain faithful to the teachings of the Church. He also urged them to resist evil and the various temptations they may encounter through contemporary culture and social media. He encouraged the youth to live with courage and maintain a close relationship with God as they face challenges in their daily lives. The programme also included an address by Vincent H. Pala, President of the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee. He described young people as an important strength of society and encouraged them to take responsibility rather than waiting for the future. He also urged the participants to pursue their dreams with humility and use social media responsibly. The animation sessions were organised in three language groups—Khasi, Hindi and English. Br. Quirinus War Khyllew, SDB, Fr. George Shining Lyngkhoi, SDB, and Br. Ankit Xalxo, SDB, led the respective sessions and helped participants reflect on the Youth Fest theme in their own linguistic and cultural contexts. The afternoon programme included a cultural celebration attended by Gavin Miguel Mylliem, MLA of Sohra Constituency, as chief guest, and Pius Ranee, Executive Director of the North East Society for Agroecology Support, as guest of honour. The cultural programme provided another opportunity for participants to celebrate the region’s diversity while strengthening relationships among young people from different communities. The Youth Fest also highlighted responsible participation in society. Speakers encouraged young people to use their abilities positively, remain rooted in values and contribute to the development of their communities. The event was organised under the leadership of Fr. Sunil Barla, SDB, Youth Animator of Sacred Heart Theological College. Br. Firstbornson Jyrwa, SDB, served as coordinator, assisted by Br. Jeniberth Sangma, SDB. The gathering concluded as a celebration of faith, culture and friendship. By bringing together young people from different communities, the Youth Fest highlighted the possibility of building unity across linguistic, cultural and ethnic differences while encouraging young Christians to live with courage, hope and responsibility.