The Priestly Ordination of Deacon James Chomithung Ezung was solemnly held on 29 December 2025 at Longsa Village Ground under Wokha district. The priestly ordination was conferred by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima Diocese, in the presence of priests, religious, family members and a large gathering of the faithful.
The occasion held special significance as it was the first priestly ordination from Longsa village, making it a red-letter day for the village, the Diocese of Kohima and the region at large. The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Bishop James Thoppil as the main celebrant, with Rev. Fr. Paul Thungbemo Yanthan, Vice-Rector and Professor of Oriens Theological College, Shillong, serving as the master of ceremonies. The liturgical celebration was solemnly animated by the choir of St. Peter’s Church, Longsa.
During the Rite of Ordination, several profound and symbolic rituals were observed, including prayers offered by the parents of the candidate, the removal and handing over of traditional attire, the formal calling and presentation of the candidate, the election by the Bishop with the consent of the people, examination and promise of obedience, and the Litany of the Saints followed by the Prayer of Consecration. Deacon James was invested with the stole and chasuble, his hands were anointed with the Sacred Chrism, and the sacred vessels were presented to him, signifying his new role in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The rite concluded with the kiss of peace.
In his homily, Bishop James Thoppil described the day as a moment of immense joy and thanksgiving. Reflecting on the ordination motto chosen by the newly ordained priest, “Thy will be done” (Mt 6:10), the Bishop highlighted the meaning and mission of priesthood as a gift to the Church and a service to humanity. Drawing from the Scripture readings, he reminded the faithful that priesthood begins with discipleship and calls for a life rooted in prayer, humility, holiness and ongoing formation. He further emphasised that a priest belongs to the universal Church, serving all people without distinction, beyond family, village or tribal affiliations.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was held, chaired by Mr. James C. Ezung, DWO. The programme featured congratulatory messages from St. Peter’s Church Choir, a shepherd’s message by Bishop James Thoppil, words of gratitude expressed by the newly ordained priest Dn. James Chomithung Ezung, special presentations by brothers and sisters from Longsa village, greetings from church leaders, and a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Samuel M. Ezung. Grace before the community meal was said by Rev. Fr. Sebastian, Parish Priest of St. Paul’s Church, Wokha.
Welcoming Dn. James into the priestly ministry, Bishop Thoppil called upon him to be a true witness of Christ and a faithful steward of the Divine Mysteries. He also expressed gratitude to the parents, family members and all those who accompanied the new priest through his years of formation and training. The ordination concluded with prayers invoking the intercession of Mary Help of Christians, as Dn. James Chomithung Ezung begins his ministry in the service of the Church in the Diocese of Kohima.
(Published as received)