SHILLONG, 11 October 2026: About 200 students and 30 animators from schools across the Shillong Archdiocese gathered at Sacred Heart Theological College, Mawlai, on 11 October to remember the late Rev. Fr. Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh, popularly known as Fr. Sngi, at the Fr. Sngi Memorial cum Animators ‘Meeting 2026. Organized by the Young Catholic Students/Young Students’ Movement (YCS/YSM), the event was attended by Church leaders, youth representatives, educators and special invitees. It was meant to help participants deepen their faith, strengthen fellowship and renew their commitment to the movement’s mission. The day began at 9:30 a.m. with Holy Mass at Sacred Heart Shrine, presided over by Rev. Fr. John Zosiama, SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Shillong, who was also the guest speaker. Participants then prayed at Fr. Sngi’s tomb, paying tribute to the faith, service and dedication for which he is remembered. The memorial gathering followed at 11 a.m. at Fr. Sngi Memorial Hall, opening with the lighting of a ceremonial lamp symbolizing faith, hope and knowledge. Ms. Dejita Maslai, National General Secretary of YCS/YSM India, led the Scripture reading and invocation, while YCSers of Loreto Convent presented a prayer song. Br. George Patton, Coordinator of YCS/YSM Shillong Archdiocese, welcomed the guests and said the occasion was about renewing the spirit of service Fr. Sngi represented, not just remembering him.
In his reflection, “Remembering Fr. Sngi: Reflections and Message,” Fr. Zosiama urged participants to look beyond commemoration and recognise the lasting relevance of a life dedicated to God and the young. He called on them to help form young people who live their faith meaningfully and contribute positively to the Church and society. Phibajanai Lyngdoh also performed Broken Vessels. The programme then turned to a Gospel Dance Competition, in which participating schools expressed Gospel values of hope, love and faith through choreography. St. Paul Higher Secondary School won the championship, Maurice Patrick King Memorial School was first runner-up, and Loreto Convent was second runner-up. The judges were Ms. Christina Papang, Mr. Ricky K. Sangma and Sr. Monica. After lunch, animators and students attended separate sessions. The animators discussed their role in guiding young people and the need for committed, well-prepared leaders to sustain the movement in schools and parishes. The students took part in an animation session focused on personal and spiritual growth and living out Gospel values in daily life.
In the concluding session, Rev. Sr. Monica Khangchian, FMA, Regional Coordinator of YCS/YSM, North-East India, encouraged participants to stay committed to their faith, nurture their talents and carry the Gospel into their communities. Prizes were then presented to the competition winners. Br. Antony Anakarla delivered the vote of thanks to Church authorities, guests, participating schools, animators, students and volunteers. The programme ended with the YCS/YSM Anthem. Organisers said the gathering reaffirmed that the best way to honour Fr. Sngi is to carry forward his values of faith, service and love for the young.
Reported by Br. George Patton (IND) & Br. Firstbornson Jyrwa
