EMN
Dimapur, February 7
Catholic Women Society (CES), Kiphire, celebrated its silver jubilee with Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, as the main celebrant on February 7. The Bishop blessed and inaugurated the Marian Grotto, the Rosary Garden and Memorial Park erected in loving memory of four teachers who had died in service.
The Bishop, in his introductory, congratulated and greeted the Catholic Women Society in the name of the Diocese. He said that jubilee for the Israelites was very special occasion to reconcile, renew and re-dedicate themselves, adding it is a time to renew and re-established broken relationships and mend the bad way.
In his homily, the bishop illustrated on the theme of the Jubilee “Women as faith givers,” saying women or mothers are not merely life givers but also faith givers and faith livers. Exemplifying the mother of the seven sons in the second book of Maccabees chapter seven, the bishop said a mother is great source of joy not in providing material necessities in the world but to see their children in heaven with God.
The bishop also highlighted on the need to live the faith, which called for peaceful and loving relationship with one another. He said only people, who neither fear God nor respect human, dared to take the lives of others. He added that faith is real only if we respect, love and care for one another for ‘we are all children of God.’
Mrs. Rita Chaya was the main resource person on February 6.
Nagaland Catholic Women Association was represented by its president, Ms. Angela, Mrs. Rose Abino, and Marina. Mrs Theresa Lendila and Thomas Y anchored the programme.
On February 6 evening, there was special adoration of the blessed sacrament and reconciliation service for the community in preparation for the jubilee. Rev. Fr. Benny, Parish Priest, welcomed the guests during short felicitation during which the souvenir was released and presentation made to the past office bearers and invited guests. Special song, choreography were presented by the jubilee choir and Holy Childhood Children. Samuel Y, Church Secretary, proposed the vote of thanks.