Dimapur, October 30: The newly built St. Paul Church in Noklak was inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Joseph Ottukalathil, parish priest and principal of Christ King Church, Anganba, on October 30 and blessed by the Bishop of Kohima Diocese Rev. Dr. James Thoppil in the presence of church leaders from Shamator, Tuensang, Mokokchung, Chessore, Aghunato, Kohima and Dimapur.
The Bishop, in his introduction, congratulated Rev. Fr. Joseph Lukka, the centre in charge and the small community, for the tremendous work done to complete the beautiful new church. He urged them to be exemplary in their faith and life.
The church, he said, is a sign of Christian’s presence and closeness of God. He said every church is a grace from God adding God dwells it in a very special manner. Stating that every Christian is Christ bearer, he said every Christian should manifest Christ to others.Referring to St. Paul, who said each of us is a temple of the Holy Spirit, the Bishop said with our baptism the Holy Spirit dwell in us. He, therefore, said the real church is ‘we’ adding we should be living temple of God to manifest and witness to God’s closeness and presence to his people.
Rev. Fr. Jaison Thomas, Director of Pastoral Centre, Dimapur, in his reflection based on the story of Zacchaus, said with the presence of Jesus in his life, Zacchaus became a new creation. The darkness in his life was driven away by Jesus and he felt accepted by God, which brought about total transformation in his life. He said Zacchaeus was not only converted but also committed to justice for which salvation came into his house.
Rev. Fr. Josep Lukka, the priest in charge, expressed gratitude to Rev. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, priests, nuns, special guests for gracing the occasion. He particularly thanked Shanil, a staff of St. Paul, Noklak, for designing the church.
Songs, trio, choreography were other special items presented during the inaugural function.
