Three deacons were ordained priests at St. Ignatius Parish, Razeba, on Wednesday by Bishop James Thoppil, marking a historic day for the Diocese of Kohima.
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DIMAPUR — Three deacons—David Zholia, John Dukru and Abraham Krocha—were ordained priests at St. Ignatius Parish, Razeba, on Wednesday.
The ordination Mass was presided over by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, and witnessed by a gathering of clergy, religious, parents, relatives, village elders and devotees.
In his homily, Bishop Thoppil reflected on the readings from Jeremiah (1:4–9), Hebrews (5:1–10) and Luke (5:1–11), highlighting that priestly vocation is always initiated by God.
According to an update, 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.
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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 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, challenging 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 gratitude to the bishop, parents, formators, parish priests and the devotees for their prayers, guidance and support throughout their journey to the priesthood.