Nagaland: Longsa village witnesses first priestly ordination

The priestly ordination of Deacon James Chomithung Ezung was solemnly held on December 29 at Longsa Village Ground, Wokha district. The ordination was conferred by Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima Diocese, in the presence of priests, religious, family members and a large gathering of the faithful.
The occasion marked a historic milestone as the first priestly ordination from Longsa village, making it a red-letter day for the village, the Diocese of Kohima and the region. The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Bishop Thoppil as the main celebrant, with Rev. Fr. Paul Thungbemo Yanthan, Vice-Rector and Professor of Oriens Theological College, Shillong, serving as master of ceremonies. The liturgical celebration was animated by the choir of St. Peter’s Church, Longsa.
In his homily, Bishop Thoppil described the day as one of immense joy and thanksgiving. Reflecting on the ordination motto chosen by the newly ordained priest, “Thy will be done” (Mt 6:10), he highlighted priesthood as both a gift to the Church and a service to humanity. He reminded the faithful that priesthood begins with discipleship and calls for a life rooted in prayer, humility, holiness and ongoing formation, serving all people beyond family, village or tribal affiliations.
The Rite of Ordination included prayers offered by the parents of the candidate, the removal and handing over of traditional attire, the formal calling and presentation of the candidate, the Bishop’s election with the consent of the people, examination and promise of obedience, the Litany of the Saints and the Prayer of Consecration. Deacon James was invested with the stole and chasuble, his hands anointed with Sacred Chrism, and sacred vessels presented to him, signifying his new role in the celebration of the Eucharist.
Welcoming James into priestly ministry, Bishop Thoppil called upon him to be a true witness of Christ and a faithful steward of the Divine Mysteries, while expressing gratitude to his parents, family and all who accompanied him through his years of formation.
A felicitation programme followed, chaired by James C. Ezung, DWO, featuring congratulatory messages, special presentations by Longsa villagers, greetings from church leaders and words of gratitude from the newly ordained priest. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Samuel M. Ezung.
The ordination ended with prayers invoking the intercession of Mary Help of Christians as Fr. James Chomithung Ezung begins his priestly ministry in the Diocese of Kohima.