Historic Day in Nagaland’s Anatongre Village as Sr. Catherine Becomes First Nun from Village

Kiphire, Nagaland, June 16, 2025: A Thanksgiving Holy Mass was held on Sunday at St. Mary’s Church in Anatongre, a village in Nagaland’s Kiphire district, to honour Rev. Sr. Catherine Tsumongshe, UFS, the first religious nun from the village and the second from the Tikhir tribe. The celebration marked a historic moment for the local Catholic community, acknowledging Sr Catherine's commitment to religious life and service.

The solemn Mass was officiated by Rev. Fr. Philip Magh, Parish Priest of St. Peter’s Parish, Kiphire, and concelebrated by eight priests from various parishes and mission centres. Delegates from nearby villages and towns, catechists, village councils, public leaders, and officials participated in the celebration.

Born to Yutsumong Joseph and Yangchola, Sr. Catherine is the fifth among six siblings. She pursued her early education at Loyola Higher Secondary School in Kiphire and joined the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation in 2019 after completing her HSLC. She continued her higher secondary education at Assisi Higher Secondary School and entered the pre-novitiate in 2022 and the novitiate in 2023. Her religious motto is inspired by Isaiah 43:4: “To love Jesus and do everything for His glory.”

In his reflection during the Mass, Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu cited John 21:6, emphasising Sr Catherine’s faithful response to her divine calling and her spiritual contribution to her family, tribe, and village. “Her greatest weapon will be prayer,” he noted, extending blessings for her ministry in the Church.

Earlier, Rev Fr Philip welcomed the congregation, and Rev Sr Lucy SABS gave the commentary for the ceremony. The Catholic Women's Association led the choir during the Mass.

After the Mass, a felicitation programme was held. Madam Maria hosted the programme. The event began with an invocation from Rev. Sr. Arila Angela and a welcome address by Edward Yangthong, catechist at St. Mary’s Church. The programme featured congratulatory songs, a cake-cutting ceremony, and speeches from several dignitaries, including the Village Council Chairman, Dr. Fr. Obed Yimchunger (Vice Principal of St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama). and Thomas Kiumusu, Church Secretary of St. Peter’s Church, Kiphire.

In her address to the gathering, Sr. Catherine expressed heartfelt gratitude to her family, community, and congregation for their unwavering support and encouragement. The event concluded with a community meal, marked a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of Anatongre Village and the Tikhir tribe.

By Fr. Patrick Lal