Kohima: Patton appeals for unity beyond denominations

Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton on Sunday congratulated the pioneers of the Lotha Catholic Khümshüm Kohima (LCKK) for their perseverance and unwavering faith during its formative years. Speaking at the Golden Jubilee celebration of LCKK held on February 22 at the LCKK Community Hall, Peraciezie, Kohima, Patton lauded the early members who endured hardships but laid a strong foundation for the community, noting that “today, we are enjoying the fruits of their labour and the legacy of 50 years of faith.”
Sharing his experience from Vatican City during the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV’s pontificate, Patton emphasized unity beyond denominational divisions. He urged the Naga community to foster peaceful harmony and highlighted the urgent need for environmental protection, lamenting the decline in bird species and biodiversity. He called upon the faithful to safeguard wildlife and preserve nature for future generations.
Patton also stressed the importance of preserving one’s mother tongue, urging parents to ensure children learn and value their native language as an identity bestowed by birth. He further underscored the need for unity among Naga tribes, respect for diverse cultures, and reaffirmed his commitment to public service, assuring accessibility to the people. Encouraging students to prepare diligently for competitive examinations, he advised youth to use technology wisely and avoid misuse of mobile phones. Concluding his address, Patton expressed hope that the jubilee would usher blessings not only for the Catholic faithful but for the entire Lotha community.
The celebration was graced by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima Diocese, as the main celebrant. Observed under the theme “One in Christ, United in Mission,” the jubilee reflected the community’s commitment to unity, evangelization, and collective responsibility in strengthening the mission of the Church.
Ceremonial highlights included the hoisting of the jubilee flag by Rev. Fr. Matthew Mhabemo, Parish Priest of St. Francis De Sales Church, Kohima. Bishop Thoppil blessed the Golden Jubilee monolith and grotto of Mother Mary, which was later unveiled by Deputy CM Patton.
Delivering his homily, Bishop Thoppil congratulated the community for 50 years of steadfast faith and witness. He recalled the early elders of Lakhuti village who embraced Catholicism despite challenges, describing their decision as “entering a dark tunnel but coming out into bright light.” He urged the faithful to remain in the light of Christ and resist returning to darkness.
Reflecting on the jubilee theme, Bishop Thoppil emphasized that unity in mission begins with unity in Christ. Linking the celebration with the First Sunday of Lent, he drew from the biblical accounts of Adam and Eve in Genesis and the temptations of Jesus in Matthew, reminding the faithful that sin leads to darkness while Christ brings salvation. Quoting Romans, he explained that while sin entered the world through Adam, grace abounds through Christ. He encouraged the congregation to use the Lenten season for prayer, penance, and repentance, resisting temptations of power, pride, and material desires. Concluding his homily, he urged the faithful to remain firm in faith and continue being a light and witness to the true faith.
The Holy Mass was chaired by C. James Ezung, while the felicitation programme was chaired by Sorenbeni Esther Yanthan. Earlier, the Jubilee Hall was blessed by Bishop Thoppil, ribbon-cutting was done by Johnny Humtsoe, and the jubilee candle was lit by R. David Yanthan.
The Golden Jubilee celebration concluded on a successful note, marking 50 years of faith, unity, and mission for the Lotha Catholic community in Kohima.