Zou Catholic Union Conducts Leadership Training for Church Leaders Amid Tensions in Manipur

Lamka, Manipur, March 9, 2027: Amid continuing ethnic tensions and political uncertainty in Manipur, the Zou Catholic Union Manipur organised a three-day leadership training programme aimed at strengthening faith formation and pastoral leadership within the community. The programme was held from March 6 to 8 at St. Luke Unit Church under Good Shepherd Parish in Lamka.

More than 50 church leaders from various Zou Catholic communities across the hill districts of Manipur participated in the training. The participants included women and youth leaders representing different church units, reflecting the community’s collective effort to build resilience and deepen faith during challenging times. The initiative was financially supported by several local Zou Catholic unit churches.

A team of clergy members served as resource persons, guiding participants through sessions on Christian leadership and the mission of the Church. Among them were Fr. Athew Mathew, parish priest of Good Shepherd Parish, Lamka, and Fr. Stephen Baite, principal of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School Lamka.

Other speakers included Fr. Mung, parish priest of St. Thomas Parish, Singngat; Fr. George Ginsei Baite of St. Teresa Parish, Tuitengphai; Fr. Samy of St. Mary’s Parish, Tuibuang; and Fr. Mark Aimeng, associate priest of Tuibuang Parish. Through their reflections and pastoral insights, the speakers encouraged participants to cultivate leadership rooted in Gospel values and dedicated service to the faithful.

The programme also included interactive group sessions that enabled participants to reflect on their responsibilities as church leaders. In one activity, participants created symbolic representations expressing their hopes and vision for leadership, highlighting their commitment to follow Christ’s example in serving the community.

During the training, a Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Mung, coinciding with the observance of International Women’s Day. In his homily, he reflected on the significant role of women in the history of the Church and in the Bible, emphasising that women can assume vital leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to the growth of the Church and the strengthening of faith in society.

He also noted that the Catholic Church, as a global community of believers, carries profound responsibilities in witnessing to the Gospel. Women, he said, play a key role in spreading the Good News and promoting peace and harmony in society.

The Zou Catholic Union Manipur was established under the guidance of Fr. Stanis Chinliankhup, the current rector of Orien Theological College in Shillong. The organisation works to promote and safeguard the Catholic faith among the Zou community in Manipur and is officially recognised by the Archdiocese of Imphal.

The union is presently chaired by Catechist Peter Kammang, an 80-year-old and the longest-serving catechist in the community. His leadership continues to guide the organisation in strengthening faith, unity, and responsible leadership among the Zou Catholic faithful.