The International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC), in collaboration with the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India—Commission for Migrants, organized a one-day seminar for internally displaced persons (IDPs) on March 1, 2025, at St. Thomas Parish Hall, Singngat, Manipur, India.
Implemented by Radio Veritas Asia (RVA) ZO Service, the seminar focused on mental, spiritual, and physical health for those living in relief camps amid the ongoing violence in Manipur affecting the Kuki-Zo community.
In the inaugural session, Sr. Marin Sennu, FCC, a nurse, emphasized the importance of health and hygiene in daily life, stating, “When we are burdened with tension, we cannot enjoy a healthy life.”
She stressed that overcoming challenges is only possible with excellent mental health, inspiring hope among attendees.
As many as 63 participants from various relief camps attended the seminar, with 12 volunteer leaders chosen to extend support and services within and beyond the camps.
Steve Tungnung, a medical officer from Singngat and a victim of the ongoing violence, provided free health cards and essential medication to IDPs.
He assured the gathering of his full support, encouraging them to seek medical help whenever needed.
He also highlighted the importance of truthfulness for mental well-being and called for compassion toward drug addicts and individuals struggling with mental health issues.
Father Athansius Mung, the parish priest of St. Thomas Church at Singngat, spoke on ‘Psycho-Spiritual Support,’ emphasizing the role of spiritual health in achieving overall well-being.
He reminded everyone, “Our Lord is the source of all our health, but we must claim it with faith and prayer. Without a strong belief in God, spiritual and mental well-being cannot flourish.”
The seminar opened with a prayer led by Jacob Nausen from Zoumun, Divine Glory Retreat Centre, and concluded with a heartfelt prayer by Rosemary from Singtom Village, both displaced by the ongoing violence in Manipur since May 3, 2023.
This meaningful gathering nurtured hope, unity, and a renewed commitment to mental, physical, and spiritual well-being—a beacon of light amidst adversity.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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