By Felix Anthony
Miao, August 16, 2022: Christian youth in the northeastern Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh on August 15 organized a special service to pray for the country on the occasion of its 75th year of Independence.
“As we mark today the platinum jubilee of our beloved country’s Independence, remember that this freedom that we celebrate today came at a cost. Many made supreme sacrifices with their lives,” said Bishop George Pallipparambil of Miao while addressing the youth prior to the prayer service.
Underscoring the need for valuing the freedom and the roles and duties of the youth, the Salesian prelate, who is also the chairman of the North East Regional Youth Council, said, “As Christian youth, we have to be loyal, productive and responsible citizens. Nation building is our task and abiding by the laws of our country is our duty.”
The day coincided with the National Youth Sunday of the Church.
Appreciating the young people for praying for the country on its Independence Day, Father Regi Mani, the director of Catholic youth in east Arunachal Pradesh, said, “Praying for the country is the best way to celebrate our country’s independence. As we celebrate our freedom, as Christian Youth, let us do everything in our capacity to bring about lasting changes in society, the Church and the country at large.”
Speaking on behalf the youth, Jeremai Krong from Tezu said, “As we remember the sacrifices of our founding fathers and pray for our country today, let us also, as young people, keep in mind that making sacrifice is part of any noble cause worth fighting for in life. Like Mother Mary, forgetting ourselves, let us rise and go with haste to become harbingers of change, progress and development.”
Prayer services were held at St. Peter’s Church, Tezu, Lohit district, Christ the Light Shrine, Miao, Changlang district, De Paul Mission, Khanu, Longding district and several other places in east Arunachal Pradesh.