Miao, 11 January: The Diocesan phase of Synod 2021-2023 came to a solemn conclusion at Sacred Heart Parish, Neotan on 7 January 2022.

Nearly 200 delegates from all the Parishes and mission centres of Miao Diocese came for a three-day diocesan level synodal discussion at Newman School Neotan in Changlang district from 5 to 7 January.

Addressing the delegates at the inaugural function, Bishop George reminded the delegates that the church in Arunachal Pradesh has come a long way. “We have a history written in blood”, Bishop George said. “From not being allowed to enter the State to nearly a lakh of Catholics in the Diocese is a strong example for the outstanding growth of the diocese”.

“But we should never forget that this growth was possible only because the church in this part our country has always had a synodal nature, one that was participatory and in strong communion for the mission of the Church and it was always ready for any challenges and faced persecutions silently but courageously”, Bishop George highlighted.

Inaugurating the event, Somlung Mossang, Hon’ble MLA of Borduma-Diyun Constituency, requested the parents to be aware of the children’s mobile addiction and substance abuse. “The society and the Church grow where the youth are strong. We need to encourage our children to take active part in society building activities to strengthen the church, family and the society”, the Catholic leader said.

The delegates from across the Diocese were accommodated with the families of Neotan village and the Fathers and Sisters adjusted in Christ the Light Minor Seminary, Bishop’s House, Miao and convents of MSMHC Sisters, Miao, FMA Sisters in Namphai II, CM Sisters, Neotan and SH Sisters in Injan and Kharsang.

The delegates were formed into seven groups to discuss on the questionnaire prepared the diocesan core team of Synod led by Auxiliary Bishop Dennis.

The secretaries of each group presented the report of the discussion and core team members Frs. Joy, Manoj and Joseph recorded the report of the group discussions.

Various committee led by youth, women, men, Catechists, Fathers and Sisters of Sacred Heart Parish Neotan played active roles to ensure a smooth conclusion of the diocesan phase of Synod 2021-2023.