Zunheboto, May 14 (MExN): The newly built St. Clare’s Church and new friary at Akuluto town was blessed by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima and inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Dolphy Pias OFM Cap, Provincial Minister of Holy Trinity Province, Karnataka on May 13.
A press release informed that the Bishop in his introduction congratulated Fr. Cyril Pereira OFM Cap, Priest in-charge, his collaborators Frs. Royston & Stephen, and the Catholic community for building the church and invited people to make themselves the living church.
In his homily, the Bishop pointed out that any visitor or tourist to Nagaland admires the many big and beautiful churches built on the hill tops. “We can build beautiful churches but the real church is not the external physical church,” he added. “St. Paul says we are the temple of the Holy Spirit and so we are to give the true worship in spirit and in truth through a life lived according to the values of the Gospel.”
During the felicitation program, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil congratulated the Fathers for the good result obtained by the first batch of class X. Highlighting that many wonder why the priests and nuns sacrifice to stay in faraway places and put up with great difficulties and inconveniences, he stated that it is because of their commitment and love for God who called them to a life of total dedication. “They are the real and true wealth and strength of the Church.” He further urged the community and people to be grateful. Stating that the religious have sufficient trouble, he also urged the community to lessen their trouble by supporting in their ministry.
Rev. Fr. Dolphy Pias OFM Cap, Provincial superior congratulated Fathers and the staff for the good results obtained in the examination – 15 students with distinction. He said the Catholic schools try to impart not only knowledge, but moral and human values to live an upright and honest life.
During the felicitation programme anchored by Fr. Royston, choreography, traditional and modern songs were presented. Presentations to the priests and other collaborators were also given out during the felicitation program.
The event was attended by Fr. Mathias OFM Cap, Provincial Delegate Nagaland-Manipur, priests, Sisters, elders of the community and people of the town.
