Kohima, April 8 (MExN): Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima visited District Jail, Kohima on April 8 accompanied by Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Bishop’s Secretary; Sr. Mariam, FMA, Sr. Regina, FMA, Sr. Veronica, FCC, Rev. K. Kenye, Chaplin, District Jail, Kohima. They conducted prayer service for the inmates.
In his address to the prisoners, the Bishop wished them Happy Easter. Maintaining that God's mercy is unlimited, he stated Easter is the celebration of God’s infinite mercy. “God understands us and loves us individually. He waits for our return and embraces us when we turn to him. Let us celebrate Easter with this attitude of gratitude to God for his love and of repentance and return to the God of love,” the bishop exhorted.
Rev. Fr. Thomas, while giving the gist of the homily of the bishop, also exhorted the audience saying, “Forgiveness is one of the most wonderful abilities we, the human beings, have. People are not perfect. We all make mistakes, but the good thing is that we are able to forgive and move on.”
Special song, spontaneous prayers and bible readings were presented by the inmates. Bishop James said the concluding prayer and gave the benediction. He also presented small gifts to all.
Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Bishop’s Secretary in a press release mentioned that as part of the CBCI Commission for Prison Ministry in India, the CRI units in Kohima and Dimapur visit the prison at least once a month to pray with and for the inmates and help them in their immediate needs.
Sr. Mariam, FMA from Little Flower School is the coordinator of Prison Ministry in Kohima.
