Shillong, October 18: Thousands of Garo Catholic faithful gathered at St. Joseph Higher Secondary School under Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Pynthorumkhrah, on Sunday for the 13th annual gathering organised by the All Shillong A·chik Catholic Core Committee, Shillong.
The celebration was held under the theme drawn from Colossians 3:17: “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”
The gathering brought together members of the A·chik Catholic community for prayer, thanksgiving, fellowship and cultural celebrations. Alongside the Holy Mass, the programme featured traditional songs and dances highlighting the rich cultural heritage of the Garo community.
Fr. Janerius S. Sangma of the Diocese of Tura presided over the Holy Mass as the main celebrant. In his homily, he urged the faithful to honour Jesus Christ through their words and actions and remain thankful to God in their daily lives.
Emphasising the unity of Christians as members of the Body of Christ, Fr. Sangma encouraged the congregation to lead exemplary lives by practising love, compassion and service to others.
Rangsakona MLA Subir R. Marak attended the programme as the chief guest and inaugurated the cultural programme with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
Members from Nongmensong, Nongthymmai, Laban, Pynthorumkhrah, Mawiong and Laitumkhrah parishes participated in the cultural presentations, showcasing traditional songs and dances that reflected the Garo community’s cultural identity and Christian faith.
Young participants also presented songs and other performances conveying messages of faith, compassion and acceptance. Their performances highlighted the importance of overcoming differences and welcoming Christ into one’s heart through love, care and understanding for others.
Priests and religious sisters joined the celebration, which provided an opportunity for Garo Catholics from different parts of Shillong to strengthen their spiritual bonds, preserve their cultural heritage and promote fellowship among the participating parishes.
Pynthorumkhrah Parish Priest Fr. Roy Anthony Pallikat and Assistant Parish Priest Fr. Leoborki Dkhar were also present at the gathering.
