Jesuits of Kohima region gets priest from Jakhama village

Dimapur, Dec. 28 (EMN): Reverend Deacon James Kulvi SJ, was ordained a priest on December 27 by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima. Rev. Gabriel Kujur, emeritus Bishop of Daltonganj, and over fifty priests concelebrated with the Bishop in the solemn ceremony. The motto of Rev James was “I am with you always” (Mt. 28:20).

Deacon James Kulvi, dressed in the traditional Angami attire, was brought in with the traditional tune to the church. He was accompanied by his parents and Saku Francis Xavier Rolnu, the eldest among the clan, along with the family members to the altar. The prayer of blessing was pronounced with the calling of the candidate.

Rev. Fr. (Dr) Visosieo Solomon Vizo, parish priest of St. John, anchored the programme, while Rev. Fr. Charles D’souza SJ, parish priest, accorded the words of welcome to Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, government officials, village leaders, dignitaries, priests and sisters from different parishes, leaders of CAN, NCYM, NCWA, catechists, pastors of different churches, invited guests, and other participants.

The bishop, in his homily, exhorted the candidate to be humble, build close intimacy with Jesus through the celebration of the Eucharist and prayer.

“A priest is called primarily with the Lord and then to send out. One’s being must precede one’s doing. All that you are and you have is God’s gift to you. Now make a gift of your life to God, full, whole, complete in freedom,” the bishop said.

The bishop also exhorted the new priest to stay in touch with the family and friends who could be source of strength in difficult moments of priestly ministry.

The bishop urged the family members and the parish community to uphold Deacons James daily in their prayers, correct him gently when they find him straying away, boost his spirit when he feels low; appreciate him when he is doing well, and encourage him when he feels discouraged.

Deacon James Kulvi Rolnu was born on October 16, 1987. He is the third child of Mr and Mrs. Kevishel Gilbert Rolnu and Viswepranuo Mary Rolnu from Jakhama village. As a young boy, he dreamt of becoming a pilot but he was inspired to join the Jesuits after his matriculation. He underwent the long formation period. He is now pursuing his Licentiate in Sacred Scripture in the Pontifical Institute in Rome.

Special song was presented by the choir, speeches were delivered by Rev. Fr. (Dr) Melvil Pereira SJ, regional superior of the Kohima Jesuits, and Vithozo Dominic Rolnu, family representatives.

Meanwhile, Rev. Fr. James Kulvi has thanked all those who made him possible to stand at the altar. He has praised the Almighty God for all the blessings that He had showered upon him through many people on his journey to vocation. He also thanked God for the gift of ‘vocation to priesthood’ and for giving him the strength and courage to follow His call. He further urged the people of God to pray for him.

Dr. Viphrezol Richard Richa, anchored the felicitation programme.