Fr. Kampan Chinnam –
Shillong: On the final day of the three-day symposium held on October 9, 2024, church leaders from across the northeast region gathered for the concluding sessions on evangelization in the modern world. In the morning Eucharist, Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh of Shillong noted the critical importance of witnessing one’s faith in today’s rapidly changing society. He emphasized the necessity of adapting evangelization methods, particularly through social media, and urged participants to view prayer as integral to their mission.
The first presentation of the final day was titled “Ecclesial Hierarchy and Sensus Ecclesiae – A Vision for Synodal Church?” delivered by Father Stanislaus Chinliankhup, Rector of Oriens Theological College. He addressed the need for collaboration between the church hierarchy and the laity, proposing that a synodal church model could offer balanced solutions to ongoing challenges faced in the Northeast region of India. The discussion focused on the responsibilities of every baptized member of the Church, the importance of community, and fostering dialogue and discernment among all church members.
A subsequent presentation, “Word of God: Foundation, Lamp, and Scaffolding of Christian Life,” was delivered by Salesian Brother Abraham Anthony. He emphasized the centrality of the Word of God in theology and moral frameworks. Brother Anthony stressed that witnessing must be rooted in a deep understanding of Scripture, imploring religious leaders to prioritize the teaching of the Gospel in contemporary contexts.
The morning’s session transitioned into a general discussion moderated by the former rector of Oriens, Kuriakose Poovathumkudy. Participants addressed complacency within the priesthood, the role of laity in Christian witnessing, and the necessity for practical and ongoing formation for candidates entering religious life. This interactive dialogue revealed a strong commitment among attendees to transform challenges into opportunities for renewal and active engagement.
The General Secretary of NEIRBC, Bishop James Thoppil of Kohima, concluded the symposium with a reflection on the shifting landscape of faith in a secular world. He urged attendees to embrace five key witnessing strategies: active listening, authenticity, kindness, articulating faith with conviction, and prayerful dependence on God.
Closing remarks by RNDM sister Baiahunlang Nongkhlaw, resonated with personal responsibility and a collective call to foster unity and collaboration. She encouraged participants to recognize the significance of their contributions and maintain momentum in their commitment to evangelization.
As the symposium wrapped up with a vote of thanks and a closing prayer by NEIRBC President Archbishop John Moolachira, it was clear that the discussions opened new avenues for deeper engagement in faith witnessing. Participants departed not only with a renewed sense of purpose but also with actionable insights to carry back to their communities, as expressed by the organizers of the Symposium at Oriens.
The event served as a critical reminder of the evolving role of the Church in society and the urgent need for all members to be active, engaged witnesses of their faith, as stated by Father George NK.