The Diocese of Kohima celebrated Sisterhood Day 2026 with great joy and gratitude on the Solemnity of Pentecost, which also coincided with the Feast of Mary Help of Christians Cathedral, Kohima on 24th May. The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, who reflected on the significance of the day’s triple celebration and the life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church.

In his homily, Bishop James described Pentecost as the birthday of the Church, when the Holy Spirit transformed fearful disciples into courageous missionaries. He emphasized that the Spirit, once given only to selected individuals, is now poured out upon the entire Church, empowering every believer for mission. Drawing parallels between Babel and Pentecost, he explained that while pride brought division, the Holy Spirit brings unity, communion, and understanding among peoples.

The Bishop reminded the faithful that the Holy Spirit is the soul of the Church, calling every Christian to become witnesses of Christ through lives marked by love, forgiveness, peace, and service. “We are anointed so that we may be sent; we are filled so that we may flow; we receive fire so that we may give light,” he said, urging everyone to remain open to the Spirit’s guidance.

On the occasion of Sisterhood Day, Bishop James expressed the Diocese’s heartfelt gratitude to the Religious Sisters for their generous and selfless service in education, healthcare, pastoral ministry, social outreach, and evangelization. He acknowledged their unwavering commitment to living their respective charisms and encouraged the faithful to appreciate and support their invaluable contribution to the mission of the Church.

Following the Eucharistic Celebration, a felicitation programme organized jointly by the Catholic Association of Nagaland (CAN), Nagaland Catholic Women Association (NCWA), and Cathedral Catholic Youth Movement (CCYM) honoured the Religious Sisters serving in the Diocese. The programme, hosted by Mr. Victor Kevilhouthie Yhome, Secretary General of CAN, featured a special musical presentation, greetings from Smti. Ruokuoheü Roselyn, President of NCWA, a special presentation by the CCYM, and words of gratitude from Rev. Sr. Ruokuoleü Rita, MSMHC, on behalf of the Religious Sisters. The programme concluded with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Loyola Antony, Director of the Family Commission, Diocese of Kohima.