By Felix Anthony
Miao, May 16, 2025: The women’s wing of Miao diocese in northeastern India organized a two-day convention to launch its nearly decade-long spiritual and pastoral journey towards the Great Jubilee 2033.
More than 550 delegates from eight districts of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh attended the May 12-13 program at the Light of the World School Hall in Miao.
Salesian Bishop George Pallipparambil of Miao presided over the inauguration of the diocese’s seventh women’s day. Welcoming the delegates, he said, “As we mark 20 years of the Miao Diocese, this is the opportune moment to prepare ourselves for the Great Jubilee 2033 — a bimillennial celebration of the Resurrection of our Lord, His Mandate to the world, and the Pentecost, the birthday of the Church.”
The diocese’s first bishop encouraged the participants to spend the two days in deep reflection on their faith, the values they uphold, and the challenges that lie ahead in a rapidly changing society.
Chathong Lowang, Zilla Parishad chairperson of Tirap District and the chief guest of the inaugural function, urged the women to become agents of transformation in society. “Women have always played a pivotal role in shaping society. Your voice, your action, and your faith can be a great force for positive change,” she said.
The event began with Mass, followed by the hoisting of parish-wise flags to symbolize unity and shared mission among the parishes of the diocese.
A highlight of the convention was the group discussions. The delegates were divided into 15 sub-groups to deliberate on a questionnaire addressing pressing social and moral issues such as drug addiction, early marriage, education, unemployment, mobile addiction, and the role of faith in society.
Nathom Lowang of Tirap district raised concerns about the alarming rate of tobacco and drug addiction among school-going children. She proposed instructing all local shopkeepers not to sell tobacco products to minors and adults as a collective step toward a healthier society.
Ngapnyai Jamikham, a group leader from Longding district, stressed the need for parental vigilance regarding children’s mobile phone use. “Setting time limits and monitoring content can save our children from digital pitfalls,” she stated.
Monica Lowang, who moderated a session, highlighted the necessity of educating the youth on the Church’s teachings regarding marriage and relationships, calling for catechetical interventions in this area.
Other key points that emerged from the discussions included the importance of promoting religious vocations among children, organizing at least two spiritual retreats annually in every parish, encouraging regular pastoral visits by priest and women religious, and forming a united front to address issues like the anti-conversion act of the state.
The convention ended with a cultural evening that showcased the creativity and commitment of the women of Miao diocese.