The priestly ordination of Deacon James Chomithung Ezung was held at Longsa village ground, Wokha district.
Share
WOKHA — The priestly ordination of Deacon James Chomithung Ezung was held on Monday at Longsa village ground, Wokha district.
The priestly ordination was conferred by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima Diocese, in the presence of priests, religious, family members and a large gathering of the faithful.
The occasion held special significance as it was the first priestly ordination from Longsa village, making it a red-letter day for the village, the Diocese of Kohima and the region at large.
The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Bishop James Thoppil as the main celebrant, with Rev. Fr. Paul Thungbemo Yanthan, Vice-Rector and professor at Oriens Theological College, Shillong, serving as the master of ceremonies. The liturgical celebration was animated by the choir of St. Peter’s Church, Longsa.
During the Rite of Ordination, symbolic rituals were observed, including prayers offered by the parents of the candidate, the removal and handing over of traditional attire, the formal calling and presentation of the candidate, the election by the Bishop with the consent of the people, examination and promise of obedience, and the Litany of the Saints followed by the Prayer of Consecration.
Deacon James was invested with the stole and chasuble and the sacred vessels were presented to him, signifying his new role in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
Also read: Khulazu Basa CYE celebrates 75th anniversary
In his homily, Bishop Thoppil described the day as a moment of immense joy and thanksgiving. Reflecting on the ordination motto chosen by the newly ordained priest “Thy will be done,” the Bishop highlighted the meaning and mission of priesthood as a gift to the Church and a service to humanity.
Drawing from the Scripture readings, he reminded the faithful that priesthood begins with discipleship and calls for a life rooted in prayer, humility, holiness and ongoing formation.
He further emphasised that a priest belongs to the universal Church, serving all people without distinction, beyond family, village or tribal affiliations.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was held, chaired by James C Ezung, DWO.
The programme featured congratulatory messages from St. Peter’s Church choir, a shepherd’s message by Bishop James Thoppil, words of gratitude expressed by the newly ordained priest James Chomithung Ezung, special presentations by brothers and sisters from Longsa village, greetings from church leaders, and a vote of thanks delivered by Samuel M Ezung. Grace before the community meal was said by Rev. Fr. Sebastian, parish priest of St. Paul’s Church, Wokha.
The ordination concluded with prayers invoking the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, as Ezung begins his ministry in the service of the Church in the Diocese of Kohima.