KOHIMA, Oct 29: The arrival of the Catholic Church to
Nagaland has had a huge positive impact on the state, and its
contributions extend far beyond spirituality, Governor La
Ganesan said on Saturday.
Addressing the cultural night of the golden jubilee
celebration of the Diocese of Kohima at the Mary Help of
Christian Cathedral here, he said the institutions established
by it have been instrumental in moulding countless young
minds, shaping the ethical frameworks of the leaders, and
inspiring a consciousness of duty and commitment among
the people.
Maintaining that the church has a great role to play in
changing the mindset through its educational institutions, the
governor said the Christian faith is not merely a creed to
believe or ritual to be observed but is to be lived.
Chief minister Neiphiu Rio said since the establishment of the
Kohima Diocese, the Catholic Church has become a vital force
that touches, influences and shapes the lives of many Nagas
through its various activities, as well as through its other
institutions, including schools, colleges and university.
Stating that the advent and acceptance of Christianity in
Nagaland was a turning point in the life of Nagas, he said that
it has taken the Naga society to a new era of spiritual and
material growth, progress and identity.
Rio also hailed the Catholic Church for its mission centers and
schools, some of which are located in the remotest and most
difficult terrains of the state.
He called upon the Catholic Church to make their institutions
‘centres of excellence’.
In his welcome note, Bishop of Kohima James Thoppil said
the Catholic Church, though late in arriving in Nagaland, is
reckoned today as a vital force that touches, influences and
shapes the lives of thousands in the state.
Noting that the Catholic Church in Nagaland has grown in
many ways, the bishop said, at present, the state has a
catholic population of about 63,000.
US Consul General in Kolkata S Melinda M Pavek and
Auxiliary Bishop of Münster, Germany, Stefan Zekorn
extended their greetings on the occasion.
Papal representative Monseigneur Jaun Pablo Cerillos
Hernadez also greeted the people, and released a souvenir.
The cultural night was marked by presentations by various
churches under the Kohima Diocese and a jubilee anthem by
the jubilee choir.
The three-day celebrations, which began on Friday, will
conclude on Sunday evening with Eucharistic Procession.
(PTI)
