Reverend deacon Megoriakho Thomas Punyü, the first priest from St. John the Evangelist Church (SJEC), Khonoma, was ordained for the Diocese of Kohima at Khonoma on December 30.
A press release by SJEC Khonoma media and publicity committee stated that, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima diocese presided over the mass of ordination. Bishop explained that a priest was ordained, not of men but of God and asserted that once ordained, a priest was a marked man, impressed with the indelible character of priesthood. He exhorted Thomas to be not merely a priest, but a good priest for God’s people.
Bishop also thanked the family and relatives of Thomas for offering him to God and to the Church and to continue to uphold him in their prayers.
Earlier, Thomas Punyü was accompanied by his age group members as he entered the church with Bishop James, priests and family members. The traditional blessing was said by Vikepelhu Lucas Meyase, followed by the rite of ordination presided over by the Bishop. Rev. Fr. Dr. Pezalhukho George Rino, asst. professor & director of Men’s Hostel, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Jakhama, led the ordination ceremony, and Rev. Fr. Vekupa George, assistant parish priest, Khonoma, accorded words of welcome.
Two special numbers were presented by CYA Khonoma, and Salesian novitiates from Sechü Zubza. Speeches were delivered by Bishop James, Kepelhuto Peter Punyü, father of the newly ordained priest.
Vote of thanks was delivered by Neikeselie Albert, president, Khonoma ACU in the programme anchored by Rokosekho Rev. Fr. Thomas Punyü thanked all those who encouraged him during his journey. Ronald. Rev. Fr. Thomas is the son of Kepelhuto Peter Punyü and Zasenyüno Angela Punyü.