The Diocesan priests of the Diocese of Kohima, led by their chief shepherd, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, gathered at St. Joseph Parish, Chümoukedima to celebrate the feast of their heavenly patron, St. John Mary Vianney — the Curé of Ars and patron of all priests.
The two-day celebration, marked by fraternal unity, thanksgiving, and renewal of priestly commitment, began on August7 with friendly games and sports, offering the priests an opportunity to relax, interact, and strengthen bonds of fraternity. The day concluded with the Diocesan Fraternity meeting, where matters concerning pastoral ministry and diocesan life were discussed in a spirit of collaboration and mutual support.
On August 8, a solemn Holy Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Rev Fr Augustine Kerketta, with the homily delivered by Rev Fr John Poji, one of the jubilarians marking his Silver Jubilee of priestly ordination. In his homily, Fr. Poji expressed gratitude to God for His unfailing love and providential care over 25 years of priesthood, recalling moments when God preserved him in extraordinary ways, reminding him of the closeness of the Lord to His anointed ones.
Drawing from the day’s readings, he urged the faithful to embrace a “Passion for our mission with Compassion,” following the example of Jesus the Good Shepherd and St. John Mary Vianney.
Following the Eucharist, the priests were felicitated in a program organized by the students of St. Joseph Higher Secondary School, Chümoukedima, who presented cultural performances to honor the priests’ dedication and sacrifices.
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Bishop James Thoppil, in his address, opened with the words of St. John Mary Vianney: “A priest is not for himself.” He encouraged students to remain grateful to priests and religious leaders who have left behind the comforts of home to serve God and His people, reminding all that the priesthood is a gift for the Church and a sign of God’s enduring love.
The celebration concluded with words of gratitude from Rev. Fr. Augustine Kerketta on behalf of all priests, thanking the Bishop, parish community, students, and all contributors for making the day memorable and meaningful.
The St. Vianney Day celebration was both a joyful commemoration of the patron saint of priests and a moment of grace, inspiring renewed commitment to priestly service marked by compassion, humility, and zeal for souls.
