Diocesan Fraternity of Kohima gathered at St Xavier’s Parish, Jalukie to celebrate their annual postponed St John Mary Vianney Feast on August 9 and 10.
Kohima, August 10 (MExN): The Diocesan Fraternity of Kohima gathered at St Xavier’s Parish, Jalukie to celebrate their annual postponed St John Mary Vianney Feast on August 9 and 10. St John Mary Vianney is the patron saint of all Priests who are engaged in pastoral ministry. For the Holy Eucharist on August 10, there were about 70 priests inclusive of diocesans and religious, Secretary to Bishop Diocese of Kohima stated in a press released.
This year’s celebration coincided with the Silver Jubilee of the priestly ordination of Rev Fr Benny Varghese and Rev Fr Dr Godfrey Vilasal Thapo. It was also an occasion for the Diocesan Fraternity, apex lay associations under Kohima Diocese and the Catholic Religious of India to bid farewell to the Bishop Elect of Itanagar, Rev Fr Benny Varghese.
Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima while addressing the gathering said, as the diocese of Kohima celebrates Golden Jubilee this October, the best gift to offer is in the person of Rev Fr Benny who would shepherd the flock in Arunachal Pradesh as the Bishop.
Rev Fr Benny Varghes eaddressing the gathering said that he has spent 36 long years in Nagaland and as priests for 25 years. He thanked all the Bishops who guided him till date in his ministry and asked all present for their prayers in his new mission in Itanagar.
The function was attended by priests, nuns, apex lay associations, parishioners, well-wishers, friends and relatives.
