Kohima: The Cathedral Church of Kohima, Nagaland, observed May 22 as the feast of Mary Help of Christians and Sisterhood Day.
As many as 90 Catholic religious women participated in the celebrations where 51 children received the First Holy Communion.
Bishop James Thoppil of Kohima led the feast day Mass, reports nagalandpost.com.
The prelate thanked the sisters for their dedicated and devoted services to the northeastern Indian diocese, even in the most remote areas. He assured them of prayerful support.
In his homily, the bishop spoke on the Holy Trinity as a mystery of one’s faith, as revealed in the doctrine of Jesus. Although unable to fully grasp the mystery of the Holy Trinity, the prelate emphasized that human beings share in this mysterious nature for “we” are created in the image and likeness of God.
Bishop Thoppil also said the feast reminded Christians that they are in relationship with each other and are able to love and help each other.
The celebration was preceded by one-day seminar on Year of Mercy animated by professor of Orients Theological, College, Shillong, Fr Graviour Augustine.
The same evening saw the blessing of the new statue of Mary Help of Christians, presented to the church by the Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement. A solemn prayerful candle lit procession followed.
Vicar general Fr. Carolus Neisalhou; who is also the cathedral parish priest, welcomed the sister and the first communicants.
Several lay leaders thanked the sisters for their committed life and service. Each sister was presented a memento.