Diphu: The Cathedral of the Risen Lord in Diphu became a beacon of faith and fellowship as more than 550 young people from across the Diocese came together for a one-day Youth Retreat and Pilgrimage, organized by the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) of Diphu Diocese. The event was a moving blend of worship, reflection, and community, offering the youth a transformative experience of spiritual renewal and encounter with Christ.
The day began with a solemn procession towards the Cathedral Church, symbolizing the collective journey of the young pilgrims seeking God’s grace. With banners raised and hymns resounding, the youth entered the sacred space, setting a deeply prayerful atmosphere for the day’s proceedings.
Fr. Thomas Maripurath, Parish Priest of Diphu, led the opening prayer, invoking blessings on the participants. Jemson Teron, President of ICYM-Diphu Diocese (Core Team), extended a heartfelt welcome to the retreat team, priests, and religious sisters whose presence enriched the spiritual event.
The retreat’s spiritual sessions were led by Fr. Thomas Ettiyil VC, Director of the Divine Retreat Centre, Khetri, whose powerful preaching stirred hearts and rekindled the faith of the young participants. He was joined by Miss Lucy Joseph, preacher at DRC Khetri, and Sr. Jissilla, whose intercessory prayers and talks inspired reflection on God’s unconditional love and mercy.
Throughout the day, the Cathedral echoed with songs of praise, spontaneous prayer, and moments of deep silence as the youth engaged in confession, adoration, and reflection. Many shared that the retreat helped them rediscover peace and spiritual clarity amidst life’s uncertainties.
A profound highlight of the day was the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, a sacred time of repentance and renewal. In the stillness of the Cathedral, the youth knelt before the Eucharistic Lord, surrendering their struggles, doubts, and dreams. Several participants testified to personal moments of healing and inner transformation, describing the experience as a turning point in their faith journey.
The culmination of the retreat was the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Fr. John Timung, Vicar General of Diphu Diocese. In his homily, Fr. Timung reflected on the feast of All Saints, urging the young faithful to look up to the saints as role models of perseverance and holiness. “You are called to be saints in today’s world—living witnesses of faith, hope, and love,” he said, encouraging the youth to radiate Christ’s light in their families and communities.
The ICYM-Diphu Diocese extended heartfelt thanks to Dr. Paul Mattekatt, Bishop of Diphu, and diocesan leaders Fr. John Timung (Vicar General), Fr. Tomy Paleli (Financial Administrator), and Fr. Thankachan Joseph (Chancellor and Director of Jirsong Asong) for their guidance and unwavering support. Special appreciation was conveyed to Fr. Thomas Maripurath, Parish Priest, and Fr. Dominic Teron, Assistant Parish Priest, for their warm hospitality and organization.
A special note of gratitude was offered to Fr. Jonathan Teron, Diocesan Youth Director, whose leadership and encouragement were pivotal in making the retreat a success. The participants also thanked Mr. John Timung and his music ministry team for their soul-stirring praise and worship, which lifted hearts in joyful celebration.
As the retreat drew to a close, Jackie Paul Milick, Media Secretary of ICYM, delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all who contributed to the memorable day. The event concluded with a symbolic procession led by Fr. John Timung, carrying the Jubilee Cross, signifying a renewed mission to live and share the Gospel.
The one-day youth retreat and pilgrimage at Diphu Cathedral stood as a radiant testament to youthful faith, unity, and the living presence of God among His people. For many, it was not merely a gathering, but a spiritual homecoming one that rekindled hearts with joy, courage, and a renewed commitment to walk with Christ.