Dimapur, December 28 (MExN): The Priestly Ordination of Deacon Shayhunlo Stephen Kemp and the Golden Jubilee of St. Peter’s Church were held at Tesophenyu on December 28. The Rite of Ordination and Holy Eucharistic was celebrated by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, the Bishop of Kohima in the presence of Priests, Sisters, Brothers, special invitees, friends and relatives and invited guest, a press release informed.
The deacon was presented by his loving Parents after removing the traditional dress, indicating that he is being set apart for God’s work, it said.
Shayhunlo, who is from a Baptist family who embraced the Catholic Faith on December 25, 2004 during his high school days, it added. He later joined the Seminary to begin his formation to Priesthood in the year 2006 at St. Xavier’s Seminary, Jalukie.
He was in the different stages of formation till this day he was ordained by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, the release said.
The Bishop also declared the event as a great day for Tesophenyu village, for the Catholic Community in the village, to the diocese of Kohima and the Church universal and highlighted the nature of the rank in the Church, as a Priest to which Deacon Stephen was about to be raised.
Er. Levi lauds spirit of oneness
Earlier, the Jubilee Monolith was blessed and dedicated by Bishop which was followed by planting of winter Tree. Er. Levi Rengma, Honourable Parliamentary PWD (Housing), Government of Nagaland, graced the event as the Guest of Honour.
In his speech he thanked the Catholic community for their spirit of oneness and love that they share among themselves.
He applauded the community for being the strong rock which is a reflection on the theme of the Jubilee “Peter! You are the rock and on this rock I will build my Church” (Mt 16:18) After the ordination rite, the newly ordained priest continued the Holy Mass, at the end of which he gave his first priestly blessing to the people.
Meanwhile Fr. Stephen, thanked the benevolent God, for blessing him and calling him to share in the ministry of Jesus, the good Shepherd and expressed his gratitude to the gathering for their generous presence as well as acknowledging to all who accompanied him in his Journey to priesthood.
Rev. Fr. Philip Magh, the Assistant priest and Principal of Holy cross Church anchored the commentary. Justin Magh and K. Jacinta Magh were the host of the felicitation programme, while Shengato Jemu gave the vote of thanks. A special item was also presented by the Tesophenyu Group Women Union, besides other songs.
The auspicious day ended with the community meal, said the press release issued by the Secretary to Bishop of Kohima Fr. Victor Renthungo.
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