Newmai News Network
Shillong |October 22
Anticipating a huge turnout for the funeral of Archbishop Dominic Jala tomorrow, Wednesday, detailed traffic arrangements have been made for the day even as the Church has urged faithful wherever possible to walk to the venue.
It can be noted here that "Archbishop Dominic Jala of Shillong and Father Mathew Vellankal, a 58-year old Indian priest of the Diocese of Oakland, died in a traffic accident on October 10 in California, in the United States".
Appealing to those who will be turning up for the funeral of the Archbishop, protem Chancellor of the Shilong Archdiocese, Fr. Jimmy Margnar said, “Faithful coming from within the city, like Mawlai, Mawkhar, Nongthymmai, Umpling, Pynthorumkhrah and Upper Shillong should try to walk to the venue".
Fr Margnar also informed that around 16 Bishops besides 250 priests from all over the country will be attending the funeral of Archbishop Jala.
The pro-tem Chancellor informed that various political leaders which include the Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma, opposition leader, Dr Mukul Sangma and others will be attending the funeral service. Shillong Lok Sabha MP Vincent H Pala and Rajya Sabha Member, Wansuk Syiem will also attend.
He also informed that the funeral service will be conducted by Archbishop, John Moolachira of the Guwahati Archdiocese.
Fr Marngar also informed that during the funeral, a condolence message from the Vatican will also be read out.
Throughout the day faithful paid their tribute to Archbishop Jala which was placed close to the altar of the Cathedral.
Among those who paid their tributes to the Archbishop was Meghalaya Governor, Tathagata Roy who had a brief interaction with the family members of Archbishop Jala.
Roy was accompanied by BJP Rajya Sabha member, KJ Alphons and state Health and Family Welfare Minister, Alexander L Hek.
MLAs of the United Democratic Party and the Hill State People’s Democratic Party also paid their tributes.
Meanwhile, Fr Margnar informed that the faithful who wish to pay their final tribute to the Archbishop can do so till 12 noon tomorrow before the funeral service begins at 1 pm.
