The Catholic community of Tamlu witnessed a historic moment on December 9 with the blessing and dedication of the newly constructed St. Thomas Church by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of the faithful in the region, informed a press release.
The solemn blessing was followed by the Holy Eucharist. In his introduction, Bishop James Thoppil congratulated the community for their unity and commitment in bringing the Church project to fruition. He expressed deep gratitude to all benefactors, with special mention of Deacon Dr. Sherman Kuek from Malaysia, whose generous contribution played a pivotal role in the completion of the Church building.
In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the biblical understanding of “Church,” noting that although Nagaland is often referred to as the “land of Churches” because of the prominent place Church buildings occupy in towns and villages, Scripture emphasises the living community of believers rather than physical structures. Citing St. Paul’s letters to the Colossians and Ephesians, he reminded the faithful that “our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.” He urged the community to commit themselves not only to building Church infrastructures but, more importantly, to nurturing the spiritual life of the community and individual souls by living the values of the Gospel.
During the felicitation programme, Bishop Thoppil recalled a significant chapter in the history of Catholicism in Tamlu. He noted that in 1910, Fr. Marcellinus Molaz, a Salvatorian missionary, arrived in Tamlu as the first Catholic missionary to Nagaland. Though he came with the hope of a rich spiritual harvest, the seeds he planted did not bear much fruit at the time.
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With the renewed efforts of the Capuchin missionaries today, the Bishop expressed hope that the community would fully embrace the opportunity before them. Using the metaphor of missing a train but catching the bus, he encouraged the faithful not to let the present moment pass by, but to “ride on with great zeal and commitment.” He also acknowledged and thanked the leaders of the community who remained steadfast in faith despite challenges.
The Bishop further congratulated Lilly from the community for clearing the recent Nagaland Public Service Commission (NPSC) and a young man from the village who successfully joined the Indian Army, commending their achievements as sources of pride and inspiration for the community.
Catechist Hubert also shared his personal testimony, recalling that he began his mission in Tamlu on 23 December 1989, sent by the late Bishop Abraham, the first Bishop of Kohima. He expressed joy that through the hard work and cooperation of the Tamlu faithful, the Catholic community has now spread to three villages of the Phom community, marking significant pastoral progress.
In his note of gratitude, Fr. Justin Vinoto OFM, the centre incharge thanked Bishop Thoppil for his continued support—spiritual, pastoral, and financial—as well as for his consistent visits and guidance. He fondly recalled the Bishop’s constant reminder: “In all things, have the purity of intent.” Fr. Vinoto also extended heartfelt thanks to the pastors, GBs, chairman, community leaders, special invitees, and all who contributed to the success of the celebration.
