Umsning, India. The Claret Way Claretian Family Northeast India Meet 2025, hosted at St. Claret Seminary, Umsning, Meghalaya, from January 3 to 6, brought together 190 youth from across Northeast India for a spiritually enriching event under the theme “Pilgrims of Hope: Go Forth and Serve.” Organized by the Prefecture of Youth and Vocation, Province of Northeast India, with the collaboration of the Claretian Sisters and United for Christ (UFC), Shillong, the event aimed to inspire youth to embrace their faith through service and hope.
The meet officially commenced on January 3, 2025, with the Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Bernard Laloo, Chancellor of Shillong Archdiocese, alongside Fr. Joseph Mappilaparambil CMF, Provincial Superior, and other confreres. Participants experienced a solemn inauguration ceremony featuring inspiring speeches, the lighting of the lamp, cultural performances, and a rendition of the event’s theme song.
The subsequent sessions featured ice-breaking activities, global perspectives on faith shared by Sr. Geraldine RMI, and moving testimonies from animators who had participated in international Claret Way programs. The evening ended with lively discussions and communal worship.
The second day offered panel discussions on critical themes such as “Challenges of Faith Among Youth” and “Media & Technology.” Expert speakers, including Shri Ferdinand Basan MCS and Mr. Eden Marbaniang, highlighted the struggles of faith in a diverse cultural landscape and the responsible use of media. Afternoon sessions fostered leadership skills through engaging activities, while sports competitions encouraged teamwork. The evening’s quiz competition on Claretian history and a cultural presentation celebrating biblical and cultural themes brought energy and excitement to the day.
On the final day, participants embarked on a pilgrimage to Siloam and Bethel, where they engaged in reflective prayers and attended a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. John Madur, CMF. The spiritual journey deepened their faith and sense of purpose. The evening featured participant reflections, planning for future actions, and the election of the President and Secretary for Claret Way Claretian Family Northeast India. The event concluded with a thanksgiving praise session and a formal closing ceremony, including prize distributions and acknowledgments of contributors.
The Claret Way Claretian Family Northeast India Meet 2025 was a resounding success, inspiring youth to live out their faith through service and hope. The event fostered spiritual growth, cultural exchange, and community building, equipping participants to become leaders in their communities.
Source: Fr Arnest Kharmawlong, CMF, Prefect of Youth and Vocation, Province of Northeast India.
