EMN
Dimapur, January 8
The Bishop of Kohima, Most, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil ordained Rev. Fr. Charles Ongdok Phom, the first priest from the Phom community under Longleng district at Holy Cross Church, Yongnyah today.
The newly ordained priest took his motto: “The Lord is my portion and cup.”The Bishop in his homily thanked his mother for offering the eldest son to the church. He also highlighted the role of the priest as one of lifting Jesus to the people so that Jesus may draw them to Himself and be saved. Every priest does this through his pastoral, prophetic and leadership roles. Once ordained a person remains a priest for ever because of the indelible character imprinted with the ordination. Priesthood is a treasure kept in the earthen vessel, so susceptible and brittle. Hence the bishop exhorted the community to support their priests through prayers, correction, appreciation and encouragement. No human being can assume to be a priest unless called by God and chosen by the Church. The Church is called Episcopal because every priest is ordained by a bishop and only a bishop can ordain a person. At the beginning of the service Rev. Fr. Sunny, the parish priest of Longleng extended a warm and hearty welcome to all.
Reverend Deacon Charles Ongdok Phom was brought to the Church by his mother and relations with Phom traditional songs and dances. The deacon was presented by his mother representing his father late N. Longvang and community representatives for ordination after praying over him and removing the traditional dress, indicating that he is being set apart for God’s work. After the ordination rite, the newly ordained priest continued the Holy Mass, at the end of which he gave his first priestly blessing to the people. He thanked the benevolent God, for blessing him and calling him to share in the ministry of Jesus- the good Shepherd. He also thanked, the bishop, priests and sisters, pastors of various churches, village leaders, catechists and people from various villages, dignitaries, invited guests, Choir members, and all others who had graced the occasion with their gracious presence. Fr. Charles Phom thanked Fr. C.Joseph and James Kerketta who inspired him to answer God’s call.
Rev. Fr. Charles Phom is the second child of late N. Longvang Phom and Inong Phom from Yonggnyah village under Longleng district. He has four brothers and four sisters. He joined the seminary in Jalukie and finished his Class XII from St. Xavier Hr. Sec. School, Jalukie. He did one year of orientation course at Chabua, Assam and philosophy studies and graduation from Salesian College, Dimapur. He also completed his theological studies at Oriens Theological, College, Shillong.
Nikashe DC Longleng K. Sophie, SP Longleng, Libunthung, former DC Longleng and Director DUDA, Lungang, Tamglu Ang were the special guests for the ordination.
Rev. Fr. Francis, the Parish priest of Sharmator and Francis, anchored the commentary and felicitation program, in which special items were presented by the choir, and Yongnyah Nyuthu, Longleng. There were speeches from Bishop, Rev. D. Vangpong Phom Excutive Secretary NCRC (Phom) Sub-Council & Mission Secretary NCRC. M. Palong Phom on behalf of the family thanked all. The auspicious day ended with the community meal.
