St. Damian Church, Wathin, Arunachal Pradesh, Celebrates Silver Jubilee

Wathin, Arunachal Pradesh, June 20, 2025: St. Damian Church, located in Wathin, a village in the Tirap District of Arunachal Pradesh, celebrated its Silver Jubilee with a grand event on 28th May 2025. The celebration was held at the premises of the church, which is a substation of Khonsa Parish under the Diocese of Miao, with several parishioners, clergy, and eminent dignitaries attending the function.

The event commenced with a Holy Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Most Rev. Dennis Panipitchai SDB, Auxiliary Bishop of Miao. The celebration was further enriched by the presence of all former parish priests and assistant priests of St. Damian Church, Wathin, who concelebrated the Mass, rekindling cherished memories and reaffirming their spiritual bond with the faithful of Wathin village.

A significant moment of the day was the blessing of the Marian Grotto at the entrance of the village. This sacred space now stands as a visible symbol of Marian devotion and serves as a place of prayer for both villagers and visitors. Alongside this, the Silver Jubilee Memorial Stone, commemorating 25 years of the spiritual journey and growth of the church community, was also erected and blessed. 

Shri. Wangki Lowang, Hon’ble Minister for Environment & Forest, Geology, Mining & Minerals, and Development of Tirap, Changlang, and Longding, graced the event as the Chief Guest. Shri. Tumwang Lowang, Zilla Parishad Member (ZPM) of Khela Block, was the Guest of Honour. Both dignitaries addressed the gathering, commending the unity and dedication of the faithful of Wathin village in building and strengthening St. Damian Church, Wathin.

The evening featured a vibrant cultural programme that showcased the rich traditions of the local community. Several individuals who had played a significant role in the growth of the Church were also honoured during the event.

The Silver Jubilee celebration of St. Damian Church, Wathin, not only marked a historic chapter in the lives of the faithful of Wathin village but also reaffirmed their commitment to continue the mission of Christ with renewed faith and vigour.

By Father Subhash