10th April, Chrism Mass and Priesthood Day celebrated at Viswema

April 10, 2025 News & Updates
The Holy Chrism Mass and Priesthood Day 2025 organized by the Diocese of Kohima at St Joseph Catholic Church, Viswema on April 10 drew an estimated 1,500 attendees. The attendees included 138 priests, religious sisters from various congregations, leaders from the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN), Nagaland Catholic Women Association (NCWA), and Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM), as well as church members and youth from neighbouring villages.
While the event is usually held at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, the mother church of Nagaland, the 2025 celebration was hosted for the first time by St Joseph Catholic Church, Viswema, under the shepherdship of Rev Dr James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima.
According to a press release, the Chrism Mass includes two key Catholic traditions: the blessing of three oils—catechumens, chrism, and the sick—by the Bishop, and the renewal of priestly vows.
In his sermon, Rev Dr Thoppil noted that it is particularly directed to the priests and that the Chrism Mass reminds them of the ‘oneness in Christ’ through the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Orders, and the unity they share with their Bishop and the presbyterate. The renewal of one’s priestly relationships, identity, and mission is essential for a flourishing and healthy ministerial life, he added. He stressed that this can begin by taking time during the season of Lent to prepare for the Chrism Mass, reflecting on the promises that recall the words and postures of ordination, and recommitting to a deepening relationship with the Holy Trinity, one’s Bishop, and one’s presbyterate.
The Bishop also highlighted to the congregation that priests today face many difficulties and challenges in carrying out priestly promises, including uncertainties, which can lead to dejection and discouragement. Thus, he requested prayers and support for the priests from the congregation so that they can carry out their mission with renewed dedication.
Earlier, before entering into the Lectionaries of the Holy Chrism Mass, Rev Fr Emmanuel Patton, the Parish Priest of Mary Help of Christians Parish, Jakhama, welcomed all the presbyterate and the congregation to the event. Later, after the Holy Mass, the laity associations of CAN, NCWA, and NCYM, along with the Viswema Catholic Community, organised a short felicitation programme for the priest attendees, the release added.
 

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