First Phom priest ordained

Rev. Fr. Charles Ongdok Phom, the first priest from Phom community under Longleng district, was ordained by Bishop of Kohima Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, at Holy Cross Church, Yongnyah, on January 8. The newly ordained priest took his motto “The Lord is my portion and cup”.
On the occasion, Bishop Thoppil thanked Fr. Charles Ongdok’s mother for offering her eldest son to the church. He said priesthood is like a treasure kept in the earthen vessel, so susceptible and brittle. Bishop also requested the community to support the newly ordained priest through prayers, correction, appreciation and encouragement.
Rev. Charles Ongdok was honoured and welcomed by cultural songs and dances.
After the ordination rites, he gave his first priest blessing to the people. Rev. Charles thanked Fr. C Joseph and James Kerketta, who inspired him to answer God’s call and serve the ministry. He also thanked bishop, priests, sisters, pastors of various churches, village leaders, catechists and others who graced the occasion.
Nikashe DC Longleng, K Sophie SP Longleng, Libunthung former DC Longleng, Director DUDA Lungang and Tamglu Ang were the special guests for the ordination programme.
Rev. Fr. Charles Phom is the second child of late N Longvang Phom and Mrs. Inong Phom from Yonggnyah village in Longleng district. He graduated from Salesian College, Dimapur, and completed his Theological studies at Oriens Theological College, Shillong.