Photo Courtesy: nagalandpost
Kohima: The Zeliangrong Catholic Association of Nagaland (ZCAN) gathered fifty-eight faithful at St. Peter’s Church in Nchangram village on October 19. They met to tackle a blunt question: Does faith change the way we live? The one-day seminar, held under SFS Parish Tening in the Diocese of Kohima, demanded that members turn Christian teachings into concrete community service and family duty.
Former ZCAN vice-president Ningpi Jerome traced the Church’s roots. He touched on Emperor Constantine in 313 AD, the Protestant Reformation, and Vatican Councils. He laid out the four marks of the Church and defined the seven sacraments. He urged leaders to set the pace. Rev. Fr. Peter Pehiacanglu took the floor next. He detailed the meaning behind signs, symbols, and sacramentals like rosaries and holy water. He emphasized that rituals must mean something beyond the pews.
"Following God’s will must be demonstrated through actions," said Fr. Peter Pehiacanglu. He warned that faith stays hollow if it stops at the church door.
Ch. Kangba Andrew, a Peren Government College professor and ZCAN adviser, pushed a social agenda. He demanded that Catholics protect ancestral land and reject corruption. He promoted solidarity and self-reliance through organic farming and community granaries. He called for an end to clan divisions and land-grabbing. He also pushed for active support for widows, students, and daily wage earners.
Participants from four churches attended, including SFS Parish Tening, St. Thomas Church Nzau, Christ the King Church Nkialwa, and the host congregation. ZCAN treasurer Sizanpi Anthony moderated the event. President Letgong Patrick handled the welcome, while catechist Rangdibo Paul closed the day. The seminar wrapped with a fellowship meal. Patrick challenged the group to take these lessons home. He wants to see integrity and service define the community moving forward.
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