What Brought 200 Catholic Men Together in Manipur to Reflect on Family and Faith?

Around 200 Catholic men gathered at Xavier’s Parish in Makhan, Manipur, for the Second Men’s Seminar of the Archdiocese of Imphal, focusing on their responsibilities as husbands, fathers, Catholics and members of society. Held on September 25–26 under the theme, “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong,” from 1 Corinthians 16:13, the two-day gathering included talks, group discussions and activities aimed at helping participants reflect on family life, Christian faith, personal discipline and community responsibility. SP Peter highlighted the important role men can play in their families and the Church. He identified four areas of responsibility: treating wives as equal companions, guiding children with love, contributing to Church and community life, and maintaining personal integrity and dignity. He also emphasised self-control and personal discipline as important qualities for men seeking to fulfil their responsibilities faithfully. Fr. Adaziio Jaochim, SDB, encouraged participants to listen to others with humility rather than assuming that their own opinions were always correct. He reminded the men that their ultimate accountability is before God rather than being driven primarily by social recognition. The seminar also gave participants opportunities to discuss the topics and share their personal experiences. These discussions helped connect the presentations with the practical challenges faced by men in their families and communities. Another session focused specifically on fatherhood. Mr. Lohrii Nenuo Joseph highlighted stability, responsibility and dignity as important qualities of fathers. He explained that responsible fatherhood can contribute to respectful and stable families, which can also help build peaceful and orderly communities. Strengthening Catholic identity was another major focus. Participants were encouraged to deepen their relationship with God through Scripture and prayer and to take an active role in the life of the Church. Speakers encouraged the men to allow their faith to influence their decisions, family relationships and service to others. The gathering also reflected on Christ’s words to Peter, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church,” encouraging the participants to remain faithful to the Church and contribute actively to its mission. Family relationships received further attention through a session on forgiveness. Loli Athisii Moses spoke about the importance of forgiveness within families, including relationships with parents, presenting it as an important aspect of Christian life and personal growth. The programme concluded with a singing competition and debate, providing participants with opportunities for fellowship and interaction. The seminar offered Catholic men in the Archdiocese of Imphal an opportunity to reflect on how faith can shape their responsibilities at home, in the Church and in wider society.