Manipur Church Leaders Trained to Address Trauma Amid Unrest

LAMKA, October 21, 2026: Around 100 Kuki-Zo Catholic priests, religious sisters and lay leaders have undergone trauma-healing training to strengthen their pastoral response to communities affected by prolonged ethnic violence in Manipur.

Organised by the Archdiocese of Imphal in collaboration with the Diocesan Social Service Society (DSSS), Imphal, the two-day programme was held at St Mary’s Parish, Tuibuang, in Churachandpur district, from October 19 to 20. It focused on trauma healing, reconciliation and peacebuilding.

The formation programme aimed to equip Church leaders with practical skills to address the emotional, psychological, spiritual and pastoral needs of people affected by violence, displacement and insecurity.

Coordinated by Fr Sony Thomas, director of DSSS, Imphal, and Fr Samy, parish priest of St Mary’s, Tuibuang, the sessions were led by Fr Dr Anthony O’Souza, SJ, a clinical psychologist from Mumbai; Nithya Lourdmary Joseph, an advocate psychologist; and counselling psychologist Tanya Serrao.

Addressing fear and dehumanisation

An open session led by Fr. O’Souza explored the relationship between trauma healing and pastoral ministry, examining how fear, polarisation and the dehumanisation of others contribute to violence.

“Violence comes from fear, which leads to polarisation and the dehumanisation of others,” he said, reflecting on the crisis in Manipur.

Interactive discussions, question-and-answer sessions, group activities, guided meditation and healing exercises enabled participants to reflect on the effects of trauma and identify ways to accompany affected individuals and families.

Another session examined how religious leaders could help break the cycle of violence and promote reconciliation and peace in communities divided by prolonged conflict.

Emphasising the importance of love, courage and faith amid fear and division, a resource person told participants, “As religious leaders, your calling is not to fear the world but to anchor yourself in the perfection of love that casts out fear.”

The sessions also addressed the pastoral challenges arising from grief, insecurity, displacement and uncertainty, encouraging Church leaders to strengthen their capacity to support people struggling with the consequences of violence.

The programme concluded with priests, religious sisters and lay leaders renewing their commitment to their faith and pastoral responsibilities, particularly their ministry to communities affected by the unrest.

Similar training planned for Naga leaders

A similar programme for Naga Catholic priests, religious sisters and lay leaders is scheduled for October 22–23 at St Paul Retreat House, Imphal. The initiative will provide participants with opportunities for reflection, sharing and pastoral formation to strengthen their response to the emotional and spiritual needs of affected communities.

Manipur has experienced prolonged ethnic violence since May 3, 2023, disrupting community life and displacing families. The continuing crisis has posed significant challenges to pastoral ministry, particularly in areas affected by violence and insecurity.

Through these formation programmes, the Archdiocese of Imphal seeks to strengthen the ability of Church leaders to accompany affected communities with compassion and resilience while fostering healing, reconciliation and peace.

By Catholic Connect Reporter