Reverend deacon James Kulvi, was ordained a priest on December 27 by Bishop of Kohima, Rev Dr James Thoppil, emeritus Bishop of Daltonganj, Rev Gabriel Kujur, and over fifty priests concelebrated with the bishop in the solemn ceremony.
A press release by the bishop’s secretary, Fr Victor Renthungo, stated deacon James Kulvi, dressed in traditional Angami attire was accompanied by his parents and Saku Francis Xavier Rolnu the eldest among the clan along with the family members to the altar. The motto of Rev James was “I am with you always.” Mt. 28:20.
The prayer of blessing was given along with the calling of the candidate. Bishop in his homily, while thanking the family and village for offering Fr. James for the service of God in the Church, exhorted the candidate to be humble, building close intimacy with Jesus through the celebration of the Eucharist and prayer. The bishop also exhorted the new priest to stay in touch with the family and friends who can be source of strength in difficult moments of priestly ministry. The bishop further urged family members and the parish community to uphold deacon James in their daily prayers.
Deacon James Kulv Rolnu was born on October 16, 1987 and third child of Kevishel Gilbert Rolnu and Viswepranuo Mary Rolnu from Jakhama village. He underwent the long formation period and is now pursuing his licentiate in Sacred Scripture in the Pontifical Institute in Rome.
The felicitation programme was organized in the same venue. There were special song from choir, speeches from the Rev. Fr. (Dr) Melvil Pereira, regional superior of the Kohima Jesuits and Vithozo Dominic Rolnu (family representatives)
Rev. Fr. James Kulvi, thanked all and recalled that he raised his heart and mind to God in gratitude for all the blessings that God has showered upon him through many people on his journey to vocation. Norbert Nakhro translated the bishop’s message, Dr. Viphrezol Richard Richa anchored the felicitation programme and time was allotted for the well wishers to felicitate the newly ordained personally.
Parish priest of St. John the Evangelist Church Khonoma, Rev. Fr. (Dr) Visosieo Solomon Vizo anchored the programme while Rev Fr Charles D’souza, the parish priest, welcomed Bishop of Kohima, Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, government officials, village leaders, dignitaries, priests and sisters from different parishes, leaders of CAN, NCYM, NCWA, catechists, pastors of different churches, guests, and other participants.