Report: Fr Stephen D'Souza

Nagaland, May 20: May 13, became a historical day for all parishioners of St Clare's Church Akuluto- here, as their newly built church was blessed by Bishop of Kohima, Dr James Thoppil and inuagurated by the provincial minister of Holy trinity province Karnataka, Fr Dolphy Pais OFM Cap.

In his introduction, bishop of Kohima congratulated Fr Cyril Anand OFM Cap and his collaborators Frs Royston D'Souza and Stephen D'Souza as well as the Catholic community for building the church and asked them to make themselves the living church.

In his homily, the bishop said that any visitor or tourist to Nagaland admires the many big and beautiful churches built on the hilltops. As this newly built church is also on a hilltop, may this church help many people to come closer to God.

The earlier parish priest, Fr Cyril Anand OFM Cap accorded the words of welcome to the bishop, fathers, sisters, catechists, village heads, GBs, pastors from different churches, professors and students from Lumami campus and also thanked Daijiworld, all the generous benefactors for helping to build the new church on the hilltop of Akuluto. He also acknowledged that without the help of the benefactors this work would not have been a successful one.

During the felicitation programme, anchored by Fr Royston D'Souza, choreography, traditional and modern songs were presented.

Presentation to the priests, sisters and other collaborators were also given out during the felicitation programme. Vixeshe Peter the chairman of Catholic community proposed the vote of thanks after which fellowship meal was graced by Fr Prem D'Souza OFM Cap. More than 500 people were present for the holy event.