Ursuline Franciscan Congregation (UFC) North East Province on celebrated its Silver Jubilee at Assisi Auditorium, Lake View Colony here on September 30. The jubilee began with the Holy Eucharist led by Rev. Bishop James Thoppil of Kohima, joined by 38 priests.
Bishop Thoppil lauded the dedication of the UFS sisters since their inception in the North East in 1975, particularly highlighting Rev. Sr. Edilburga’s leadership. He praised their widespread services across the region and expressed hope for an even broader reach in God’s mission.
Originally invited by late.Rev. Fr. Ambrose D’mello SJ in 1975 to empower Nagaland’s people, the mission gradually expanded to other North Eastern states. By January 15, 1998, the region was elevated to province status by Rev. Sr. Edilburga Monteiro, with Sr. Jeraldine D’souza as its first provincial superior.
Today, the province boasts 152 sisters working across 12 dioceses, residing in various communities and collaborating with multiple religious orders in pastoral, social, health, and educational sectors.
The jubilee saw enactments by novices, envisioning the UFS’s future a decade hence. Rev. Sr. Milly Fernandes, superior general, in her address, emphasized the importance of service beyond comfort zones, praising the sisters’ tireless efforts.
The event, attended by religious figures and the staff of Assisi, was anchored by Sr. Rose Mary Yanthan and novices Manine and Catherine. Sr. Philomena Noronha expressed gratitude for making the day memorable.