The Catholic Community in Nagaland (Diocese of Kohima) has joined the universal Church in profound joy and thanksgiving at the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, formerly His Eminence Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, as the 267th successor to the Apostle Peter and Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church.

In an official message released from the Bishop’s House, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, conveyed hearty congratulations to the newly elected Holy Father on behalf of the clergy, religious, and faithful of the Diocese. He remarked that the election of Pope Leo XIV is a moment of grace and renewal for the Church and a visible reminder of the abiding guidance of the Holy Spirit in the life of the Church.

Bishop Thoppil further emphasized the unifying role of the papacy in a global Church: “There is no white or black Catholic, no Latino or Asian Catholic, no European or American Catholic. There is only one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church. This is the beauty of our faith—a Church that transcends cultures, languages, and borders, united under one faith, one baptism, and one Shepherd.” The Bishop said Pope Leo XIV ‘s choice of name signals a commitment to social justice that is very much in line with the late Pope Francis ‘ global ministry.

“The new Pope is not a stranger to India. He visited India two decades ago when he was the Prior General of the Saint Augustinian Order to attend a priestly ordination,” the release stated.

Reaffirming the Catholics filial devotion to the Holy Father, the Bishop called upon all parishes, institutions, and communities to offer fervent prayers for Pope Leo XIV, that he may be strengthened with divine wisdom, pastoral courage, and a heart filled with love for all peoples.

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“Let us pray that Pope Leo XIV may be a bridge-builder, a father to the poor and marginalized, and a voice of peace and justice in our troubled world,” the Bishop urged.

“As the Church celebrates this historic moment, the Catholic Church in Nagaland join in jubilation and prayer, welcoming Pope Leo XIV with open hearts and firm faith.

Ad multos annos, Holy Father! Long live Pope Leo XIV!” the release further mentioned.