Catholic churches celebrate ‘Christ the King’ feast

DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 20: Christ King Church Kohima and St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Kidima celebrated the feast of ‘Christ the King’ on November 20 at their respective church. Christ King Church Kohima celebrated the feast with Rev. Dr. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima as the main celebrant, along with along with eight priests and a deacon. During the Holy Eucharist 51 members received the first communion and 12 received the sacrament of the confirmation. Bishop in his introduction greetings offered wishes to the all the catechists, since the day is being observed also as Catechists Day in the diocese of Kohima and coincidently with the official closing day of “Year of Mercy” in Rome by Pope Francis. Bishop said the feast of Christ King was established and proclaimed by the Pope Pious XI to reassert the sovereignty of Christ over all forms of government and to remind the Christians of fidelity and loyalty they owed to Christ, who by his incarnation and sacrificial death on the cross made us all both adopted children of God and future citizens and heirs of the kingdom of heaven. Emperors and kings exist today only in history books, but he said we honour Christ as the king of the universe and the king of hearts by allowing him to take control of our lives and thousands of human hearts all over the world, Jesus still reigns as King.Citing from the Bible verse (Mathew 5-7, Romans 3:19-20),” The cross is his throne and the sermon on the Mount, his rule of law,” Bishop said citizens need to obey only one law i.e. “Love God with all your being, and love others as I have loved you.” He asserted that God’s love is selfless, compassionate, forgiving, and unconditional. He stated God is a king with saving liberating mission; freeing us from all types of bondage, enabling us to live peacefully and happily on earth, and promising us an inheritance in the eternal life of heaven. As loyal subjects of Christ the King, we are invited to treat others with justice and compassion as Jesus did, especially those whom we consider the least important. Jesus expects a higher degree of love from his followers; “Love one another as I have loved you,” said Bishop. Further, he called upon the congregation to resolve to give God the central place in their lives and promise to obey his commandment of love by sharing what they have with needy children and continue the year of mercy in their life. Rev. Fr. Peter Salew, parish priest accorded the words of welcome. Edward, touring catechist was the translator of Bishop’s message. On the occasion, Bishop inaugurated the newly constructed lady teacher’s quarters and also blessed the newly elected office bearers of Catholic Union of Christ King Church namely, Keneingu Albert, president; Keneingutuo John, vice president; Rülhousanuo Ruth, general secretary; Kevilhoutuonuo Anna and Kevizoneinuo Amelda as joint secretaries; Ruokuotuolie Fedelis, Treasurer; Neisakhotuo Nestor food secretary and Neilalhoulie Andrew, vice food secretary. The community also honoured two full time catechists of the parish. St. Francis Xavier’s Catholic Church, Kidima celebrated the feast and observed Catechist Day with Rev. Fr. Raymond D’ Souza SJ, director of Eden Garden Khuzama. Rev. D’ Souza SJ spoke on “Lord Jesus Christ who is the king of the universe”. Citing the history of India before independence, where many kingdoms and palaces were, he said worldly kingdom will fade away but Christ will live forever. He said Jesus preaches his kingdom of heaven through parables of truth and life, holiness and grace, love and peace and justice which have to establish in the heart. Rev. Raymond also stressed on true Christian life. Interacting with congregation, Rev. said God listens to the poor people’s prayer and bless when they were subjugated. Special prayer was offered to catechists and leaders were also felicitated on the day.