REGIONAL NEWS

Report by : Sr. Wansuk Mary Lyngdoh MSMHC
YCS/YSM Regional Coordinator

The Young Catholic Students/Young Students Movement (YCS/YSM) Animators Training Program was organised by North Eastern Regional Youth Commission (NERYC). Twenty Eight (28) energetic and vibrant animators from eleven (11) dioceses of North East India Region assembled for the three (3) days training that was held at Inspiration Building, Kharguli, Guwahati, from 24th through 26th May, 2024.

The Inaugural function was graced by the presence of Mrs. Regina Bara Sereng, Former National Youth Pastoral Council Member of NERYC and presently working at the Development Sector for Child Rights and Women Empowerment as Program Coordinator.

The Resource persons Miss Rebecca Khiangte,YCS Coordinator of Aizawl Diocese and Advocate Jimmy Pdang,former YCS National President and Coordinator and IYCS Asian representative highlighted the core principles and implications of YCS/YSM for the young people between the age group of 13-18. The topics dealt were specifically on the YCS/YSM movement, its vision, aim, objectives, structure, cell life and methodology. Special emphasis was given on the role of animators as the backbone of the movement. The inclusiveness of techniques such as workshop, group dynamics, sharing and deliberations enhanced the participants to be more creative and innovative in accompanying and guiding the young people in the movement.

On the final day, at the valedictory function Rev. Fr. G.P. Amalraj, the Deputy Secretary of North East India Regional Bishops’ Council(NEIRBC), the Chief guest, in his message articulated the need for forming and coordinating the young catholic students of our parishes, dioceses and the region impactfully. He awarded the participants with a Certificate of Participation.

Mr Melvin Khongjee, the YCS President North East India Region recounted the memories of being encountered and inspired by committed and visionary animators during his student life and he exhorted the animator to likewise let that ‘disease be contagious’.

Rev. Fr. John Barman MSFS, YCS Regional Chaplain and Sr. Wansuk Mary Lyngdoh MSMHC, YCS Regional Coordinator expressed sentiments of gratitude to the animators for pledging to make a difference in the life of the young students through the YCS/YSM movement.