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DIMAPUR — The diocesan fraternity of Kohima gathered at St. Xavier’s Parish, Jalukie, to celebrate their annual and postponed St. John Mary Vianney Feast on August 9 and 10. St. John Mary Vianney is the patron saint of all priests who are engaged in pastoral ministry.
An update from the Kohima diocese stated that about 70 priests attended the Holy Eucharist on August 10.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]“St. John Vianney was a French priest who began his ministry at a time when French society was recuperating from the French Revolution and reeling under problems, immersed in worldly pleasures and spiritual dryness. His total dedication to the Lord brought many back to God not just in the town of Ars in France but from all over the country and outside, who sought him for spiritual consolation through the sacrament of reconciliation. Therefore, he is made the patron saint of all the priests,” read a press note.
The note further read that this year’s celebration coincided with the silver jubilee of the priestly ordination of Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese and Rev. Fr. Dr. Godfrey Vilasal Thapo. It was also an occasion for the diocesan fraternity, apex lay associations under Kohima diocese, and the Catholic religious of India to bid farewell to the bishop elect of Itanagar, Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese.
The bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, in his address to the gathering, stated that as the diocese of Kohima celebrates its golden jubilee in October, the best gift to offer is in the person of Rev. Fr. Benny, who would shepherd the flock in Arunachal Pradesh as bishop.
Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese, addressing the gathering, said that he has spent 36 long years in Nagaland and as a priest for 25 years. He thanked all the bishops who have guided him till date in his ministry and asked all present for their prayers for his new mission in Itanagar.
The function was attended by priests, nuns, apex lay associations, parishioners, well-wishers, friends, and relatives.
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