The Mao Catholic Association (MCA) along with Mao Catholic Women Association (MCWA), Mao Catholic Catechist Association (MCCA) and Mao Catholic Youth Organisation(Mao CYO) felicitated the new Archbishop of Imphal Dr Linus Neli DD in a simple yet meaningful way at St Mary’s Church, Punanamei on Sunday.
The felicitation programme began at 10 am with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided by Most Reverend Dr Linus Neli DD, Archbishop of Imphal, co-celebrated by 18 priests.
Fr Jose Karippai, the Parish Priest of St Mary’s Parish, Punanamei welcomed all the priests, religious, special dignitaries and people who have come from different Churches of Mao area, Imphal, Kohima and Dimapur.
The Archbishop, in his homily, stressed on the need to stand firm and be rooted in our calling as Christian.
After the Eucharistic celebration, the MCA organised a short felicitation programme for the newly elected Archbishop and also all the Mao Fathers and Sisters (Ememei Oravokosomei) who have completed their Silver Jubilee.
Adani Joseph, president MCA and Ela, President MCWA extended their greetings and congratulated the new Archbishop and also all the Jubilarians and wished the Archbishop the best and prayerful assurance as the shepherd and lead the Archdiocese of Imphal to a new and greater heights.
Fr John Kashiiprii, the first Mao priest, congratulated Archbishop Linus Neli on behalf of all the Mao Fathers and Sisters.
Beautiful choreography and melodious songs were presented by St Mary’s Parish, Punanamei; St Xavier’s parish, Makhan; St Francis De Sales Parish, Kangpokpi and St Joseph’s Parish, Tadubi.
The Archbishop, in his speech, thanked the MCA executives for the beautiful programme and also requested prayers from the faithful as he takes up the responsibility of shepherding the people of Manipur.
Among the dignitaries present were the newly elected Mao Council President Athikho Joseph, former presidents of MCA and various Mao Church leaders.
After the programme a sumptuous meal was served to all the dignitaries and well wishers.
It must be noted that there are 40 priests and 118 religious sisters from the Mao community.
