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KOHIMA — Melinda M Pavek, the US Consul General in Kolkata, who is responsible for West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand and the eight states of Northeast India including Nagaland, congratulated the Diocese of Kohima on attaining 50 years of dedicated service to the community.
She emphasised the importance of educational, cultural, and inter-faith exchanges in strengthening US-India friendship.
She addressed the audience amid a magnificent cultural extravaganza on Saturday evening, as part of the ongoing three-day golden jubilee celebration of Kohima diocese at Cathedral Kohima.
Pavek expressed her joy in learning that the diocese of Kohima has been sending Catholic priests to the United States for studies and idea exchanges through their mission cooperative programme since 1994.
[bsa_pro_ad_space id=1]Sharing her personal background, she mentioned that being born into a Catholic family in the United States and attending a Catholic school for grades one to eight, learning the values instilled by the sisters and priests continue to influence her.
As the diocese of Kohima celebrates its golden jubilee, she informed that the United States is also celebrating the silver anniversary of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.
"This act elevated religious freedom as a priority issue in US foreign policy and strengthened advocacy for those persecuted due to their religious beliefs," Pavek said.
Pavek also highlighted the significance of religious freedom as a cherished right in the United States and reiterated the commitment to engaging with faith communities globally.
She quoted the Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, who emphasises that promoting religious freedom also promotes freedom of expression, conscience, association, and other human rights. Pavek noted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights as well as President Biden's belief in protecting religious freedom.
Pavek acknowledged India's unique place in world history as the birthplace of several major religions and the nation's commitment to mutual respect for all religions and communities enshrined in both the Indian constitution and the US Constitution.
She reiterated the United States' dedication to promoting freedom of religion globally by underlining that diversity and inclusivity are essential for societal progress and well-being.
Concluding her remarks, Pavek called for unity across cultures and faiths, emphasising the importance of creating a more equal, just, tolerant, and compassionate world.
Juan Pablo Cerillos Hernandez, the papal representative, expressed joy in witnessing the dedication and commitment of priests, religious and lay faithful of the diocese of Kohima in the service of the Lord.
Appreciating the support and collaboration of civil authorities, he has sought continuous efforts for peace and respect of every individual's dignity. He also encouraged those celebrating the jubilee to use their unique talents for the advancement of the Kingdom of God. He further emphasised on the importance to spread the gospel to all those in need.
Rev. Dr. Stefan Zekorn, Auxiliary Bishop from Münster, Germany, shared his pleasure in celebrating the 50th anniversary of the diocese of Kohima. He also heaped praises on the Catholic Church for its five decades of development aid in Nagaland. He further expressed delight to experience Nagaland's rich culture.
Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, bishop of Kohima, recounted the history of the diocese of Kohima by emphasising on its role in the development and transformation of Nagaland and the positive impact created by the Catholic Church despite its late arrival.
Nagaland Governor, La. Ganesan, acknowledged the 50th year milestone of the Kohima diocese as a testament to the dedication and resilience of its members in spreading the Gospel in Nagaland and beyond.
Ganesan lauded the church's role in promoting peace, national integration and socio-economic advancement in the state and emphasised that the diocese of Kohima is more than a religious institution, which it represents faith, enlightenment, and development.
The governor highlighted the Church's significant contribution to education, shaping ethical frameworks, and inspiring a sense of duty and commitment in citizens.
Ganesan further underlined the importance of moral formation and acceptance of diversity, which could be achieved through the educational ministry of the Catholic Church.
Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, while reflecting on the establishment of Kohima diocese in 1973, emphasised the transformative role of the Catholic Church in the lives of the Nagas.
He noted that the advent and acceptance of Christianity marked a pivotal moment, propelling the Naga society into a new era of spiritual and material progress. He stated that Christianity, with its Catholic faith, has significantly contributed to shaping moral standards and fostering social cohesion in the Naga society through various social, cultural, and developmental activities.
Rio further acknowledged the Church's unwavering commitment to fostering brotherhood, unity and the common good among all individuals.
On the occasion, Rocus R Chasie paid tribute to the pioneers of the diocese who are no more and also delivered a talk on "pioneers of Catholic faith in Nagaland."