Kottayam: Faith is not merely a ritual or a belief, but a living bond that should guide life itself, said Most Rev. Fr. Dr. Sebastian Vethanath, addressing the youth of the Pala Diocese at the inauguration of the 1700th anniversary celebration and study camp of the Nikaya Synod. The event was organized under the aegis of the Pala Diocese Youth Movement, SMYM – KCYM.
Speaking at the Pala Shalom Pastoral Center, Msgr. Vethanath emphasized the importance of equipping young people to confront the challenges of contemporary society with courage and spiritual resilience. He encouraged participants to allow their faith to serve as a source of strength, guiding moral choices and fostering a sense of responsibility towards community and society.
The study camp, designed to deepen understanding of the Nikaya Synod’s heritage and teachings, was conducted under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Dr. James Puliurumbil, a renowned teacher and scholar from the Pala Good Shepherd Minor Seminary. Fr. Puliurumbil led sessions exploring the historical significance of the Synod and its relevance for modern Christian life.
The inauguration also featured reflections from key diocesan leaders. Diocesan Director Fr. Mani Kankankutty, President Anwin Soni Odachuvattil, General Secretary Robin T. Jose Thannimala, Joint Director Sister Naveena CMC, along with Joseph Vadakkel, Edwin Jayce, Mijo Joy, and Ebin Kallarakkal, spoke on various aspects of youth engagement, faith formation, and community service.
Approximately a hundred young participants from various parish units across the diocese attended the program. Through interactive sessions and discussions, the study camp sought to foster a deeper understanding of the Church’s teachings, historical milestones like the Nikaya Synod, and the role of youth in preserving and advancing the faith in contemporary times.
The event highlighted the Church’s commitment to nurturing spiritually grounded, socially aware, and morally responsible youth, capable of carrying forward the legacy of the Nikaya Synod while responding effectively to the challenges of the present age.