Shillong, 1st March 2026: The confreres of St. John Paul II, Shillong Province, gathered at Mawpdang Parish for a joyful and grace-filled occasion — the felicitation of three newly ordained priests of the Province: Fr. Sagar Bandhu Molsom (Tripura), Fr. Joseph Kandulna (Tezpur), and Fr. Reniel Banshanskhem Synrem (Mawlai-Nongkwar, Shillong).
The celebration commenced with the blessing of the school building and the newly constructed basketball courts by the Provincial, Fr. John Zosiama, accompanied by the Vice Provincial and the Economer. The ceremony invoked God’s abundant grace upon the new facilities, praying that they may become vibrant centres of learning, growth, and holistic formation for the young people of the parish.
This was followed by a solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Reniel Banshanskhem Synrem. In his homily, he reflected deeply on the Lord’s call — a call to attentive listening and courageous trust. He reminded the faithful that responding to God’s invitation often requires leaving behind what is familiar and dear, and journeying into the unknown with hope in the fulfilment of God’s promises. Drawing inspiration from the Transfiguration of the Lord, he emphasized that Christ’s transfiguration should lead to our own personal transformation through faith, obedience, and complete surrender to God’s will.
Immediately after the Mass, the felicitation programme was held with vibrant community participation. The Parish Choir began the programme with a special Khasi song dedicated to the priesthood. The Parish Priest then delivered the welcome address and formally felicitated the newly ordained priests, along with the superiors and dignitaries present.
A graceful prayer dance by the students of St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School added beauty to the occasion. The Novices’ Choir presented two choral pieces — one in English and one in Khasi — thoughtfully highlighting the sacred gift of priesthood.
In his congratulatory address, the Provincial, Fr. John Zosiama, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the new priests and expressed sincere appreciation to the parish community and the faithful for organizing such a meaningful celebration. He encouraged all to continue supporting the newly ordained priests through prayer and accompaniment in their priestly ministry.
A musical skit on the Good Samaritan, performed by Sub-District Dienpasoh, conveyed a powerful message of compassion and service — virtues essential to the priestly vocation.
Speaking on behalf of the newly ordained priests, Fr. Sagar Bandhu Molsom expressed deep gratitude to God, to the Province, to the parish community, and to all who had supported them throughout their vocational journey.
The celebration concluded with a formal vote of thanks, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the organizers, performers, benefactors, and the faithful who made the event a success. The newly blessed basketball court was then officially inaugurated, marking a joyful and symbolic milestone for the parish community. The day ended with a fellowship meal, as confreres, parishioners, and guests shared fraternal communion, strengthening bonds of unity and thanksgiving.
Reported by INS correspondent
