Most Rev Dr James Thoppil with others during platinum jubilee of St. Paul’s Catholic Church Dimapur on December 17.
Dimapur, December 17 (MExN): St Paul’s Catholic Church, Burma Camp, Dimapur commemorated Platinum Jubilee of the Catholic faith among the Rongmei community in Nagaland on December 17.
Marking the occasion, a monolith was dedicated as a testament of God’s faithfulness to the Church and to honour 75 years of unwavering faith, boundless love and spiritual growth within the community.
The historic milestone marked seventy-five years of enduring faith, shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and missionary zeal.
The monolith was dedicated by Most Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima. He also presides over the Platinum Jubilee Holy Mass.
Drawing inspiration from the Jubilee message and Sacred Scripture, the Bishop reflected on the community’s roots, recalling that St. Paul Church traces its origin to the post–Second World War period when Lawrence Gudenho the Rehabilitation Officer under the British Government first constructed a small Chapel which became the worshipping place for the first Catholic families.
From a small chapel, the community gradually grew into a vibrant centre of Catholic faith, becoming the foundation of Catholic presence in Nagaland.
In his homily, the Bishop reminded the faithful that the Jubilee is not merely a celebration of the past, but a call to renewal, repentance, and recommitment. Referring to the Church’s teaching, he highlighted the four marks of the true Church — One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic, emphasising that authenticity of faith is more important than size or numbers.
He stated that a true Christian community is recognised not by its strength or structures alone, but by its faithfulness to Christ, unity, holiness of life, and missionary spirit.
The Bishop further pointed out that every Christian community is privileged to be an instrument of God’s love in the world, often called to serve and witness through struggles and suffering.
Highlighting the relevance of the Jubilee in today’s context, the Bishop exhorted the faithful to become living witnesses of the Gospel.
“Often, you may be the only Catholics others encounter, the only Gospel they read,” he said, encouraging the community to be a greater light and a stronger salt, even as a small community.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was held.
Jianthalung Pius, Co-Convenor of the Jubilee Committee, extended a warm welcome to all invited guests and dignitaries.
The parish community felicitated the invitees with special presentations as a mark of gratitude and respect.
Fr John PM, Parish Priest of St. Paul Church, congratulated the community on behalf of the parish.
Sharing his personal experience, he recalled that upon arriving in Dimapur, he initially knew only Holy Cross Parish, but gradually discovered the historic significance of St. Paul Church as the first Catholic community in Nagaland.
He urged the faithful to keep the words and example of the pioneers close to their hearts, to live with zeal and courage, and to work hard in carrying forward the legacy of faith they inherited.
Johnny Rungmei, President, Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN), conveyed greetings on behalf of the Catholic laity of Nagaland.
He stressed that the history of St. Paul Church is crucial for understanding the wider Catholic history of the state.
Calling for deeper reflection, he encouraged the community to rededicate and recommit themselves to their faith and to actively promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life.
He reminded the faithful that the Catholic faith contains a sacred mystery that can only be embraced through faith, urging everyone to live their Christian calling fully and authentically.
Though small in number, he said, the community must strive to become the salt that gives flavour to society.
