In a moment of deep spiritual joy and historic significance, three deacons, David Zholia, John Dukru, and Abraham Krocha, were ordained priests at St. Ignatius Parish, Razeba, on January 7, 2026. The sacred celebration marked a red-letter day for the parish, the Diocese of Kohima, and the Catholic Church in the region.
The solemn priestly ordination Mass was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, and was witnessed by a large gathering of clergy, religious, parents, relatives, village elders, and faithful from different parts of the region.
In his homily, Bishop Thoppil reflected on the readings from Jeremiah (1:4–9), Hebrews (5:1–10), and Luke (5:1–11), emphasising that a priestly vocation is always initiated by God. He reminded the ordinands that they were chosen by God even before they felt worthy and called upon them to be shepherds after the heart of Christ, faithful in preaching the Gospel, administering the sacraments, and leading God’s people in prayer and holiness.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was organised to honour the newly ordained priests. Addressing the gathering, Bishop Thoppil urged families and the Christian community to actively encourage priestly and religious vocations, stressing that vocations flourish in homes rooted in faith and prayer.
During the felicitation programme, Fr. Valerian delivered a message to the youth, encouraging them to embrace a life of service and sacrifice and to respond courageously to God’s call without fear.
Speaking on behalf of the newly ordained priests, Fr. Avi Abraham expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Bishop, parents, formators, parish priests, and the faithful for their prayers, guidance, and unwavering support throughout their journey to the priesthood.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Stephen Dukru, who acknowledged all those who contributed to the successful organisation of the ordination and felicitation, including the parish community, volunteers, and well-wishers.
MT
