DLH & CLH accords warm reception for Dy CM after historic Vatican visit

A reception programme welcoming Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton, who recently attended the inauguration Mass of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, was jointly organized by the Dimapur Lotha Hoho (DLH) and Chumoukedima Lotha Hoho (CLH) on Monday at Dimapur Airport.
On his arrival, the Deputy CM was accorded a traditional welcome and escorted to the dais by the Tsungiki Ekhung cultural group.
Deputy CM Patton had attended the inaugural Mass alongside Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, Harivansh, as part of the Indian delegation. Representing India on the global stage, the two leaders joined dignitaries and delegates from 148 countries at the solemn and historic event.
Speaking at the programme, Patton expressed deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for nominating him to be part of this significant international event. “It is a matter of immense honour and pride to represent India on such a solemn occasion. I am deeply grateful to the Prime Minister for his trust and confidence,” he said.
Patton also extended his sincere thanks to the Minister of External Affairs, Dr. S. Jaishankar, and the entire Ministry for their meticulous logistical support and coordination during the visit. He further acknowledged the unwavering support of Chief Minister, Dr. Neiphiu Rio, for facilitating his participation.
“This has been a once-in-a-lifetime experience — both wonderful and memorable,” said Patton. “For someone from a small northeastern state like Nagaland to represent the great nation of India at such a global event reflects the inclusive vision of our Prime Minister. It shows that under his leadership, the voices and cultures of smaller communities are being celebrated on the world stage.”
He also thanked the people of Nagaland and beyond for their prayers and support, noting that their blessings gave strength to the delegation during the visit.
Patton reaffirmed his gratitude to Prime Minister Modi and expressed hope for future opportunities to represent the nation on such significant international platforms.
Recalling a personal moment during the visit, Patton shared how Pope noticed his necklace and asked if he was a Christian. In response, he revealed a cross that had been blessed by Pope Benedict XVI during his 2012 visit to Jerusalem. Patton emphasized that the question was not about denomination, but about faith, affirming, “a Christian is a Christian.”
The reception programme also featured a short speech by CLH general secretary Longshithung Kikon, followed by presentations from various community organizations.
Earlier, the programme began with an invocation prayer by Reverend Fr. Ndonse John Yanthan, and a welcome address by DLH chairman Thungchanthung Murry. Vote of thanks was delivered by DLH treasurer N. Pena Lotha, and the benediction by Lotha AG Church, Dimapur, Rev. Thebemo Yathan.