Shillong, 25 October 2026: The Catholic community of Nonghali and Mawpdang Parish celebrated a significant day of faith and devotion on 25 October 2026 with the blessing of St. Padre Pio Chapel, Nonghali, and a Marian Procession organised by Mawpdang Parish. More than 1,500 faithfuls gathered to participate in the celebrations, which brought together Salesian priests, religious brothers and sisters, dignitaries, invitees, and parishioners in a spirit of prayer, thanksgiving, and unity.
The celebration began at 10:00 a.m. with Solemn Morning Prayer, followed by the Holy Eucharist at 10:30 a.m., during which the chapel was blessed. Sixteen Salesian priests were present for the occasion. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. Genesius Wanniang, Economer, in the presence of the Parish Priest, Fr. Sebastian Tirkey, and the Assistant Parish Priests. The blessing of the chapel marked an important milestone in the spiritual journey of the Catholic community of Nonghali, providing the faithful with a dedicated place for worship, prayer, and fellowship.
The afternoon programme continued with lunch at 1:00 p.m., bringing together the clergy, religious, guests, and faithful in fellowship. At 2:00 p.m., the faithful participated in a Marian Procession, expressing their love and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The procession was a visible expression of the community’s faith and unity. The day’s spiritual activities concluded with an Adoration Service at 3:30 p.m., allowing the faithful to spend time in prayer and reflection before the Blessed Sacrament.
The occasion also recalled the humble beginnings of the Catholic faith in Nonghali village. On 24 July 1981, thirteen people received Baptism and entered the Catholic Church through the ministry of Fr. Jose Varickasseril. This event marked the beginning of the Catholic community in the village. From these humble beginnings, the faith has steadily grown and flourished over the years. Today, Nonghali has approximately 73 Catholic families, comprising more than 425 Catholic faithful. This growth stands as a testimony to the perseverance, commitment, and faith of the local community, as well as the pastoral service of the priests and religious who have accompanied its spiritual journey.
The blessing of St. Padre Pio Chapel and the Marian Procession were therefore not merely ceremonial events but occasions of thanksgiving for the many blessings received throughout the years. The celebrations renewed the commitment of the faithful to deepen their relationship with Christ, remain devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and continue building a vibrant Catholic community rooted in faith, prayer, and Christian fellowship.
The day concluded in an atmosphere of joy, gratitude, and renewed spiritual enthusiasm. The faithful departed with hearts filled with thanksgiving, carrying forward the legacy of faith that began in Nonghali in 1981 and continues to flourish today.
Reported by Brother James Gilbert Marbaniang
