St. Mary’s Parish, Manipur, Celebrates Feast Day with 100+ First Holy Communions and Confirmations

Manipur, August 18, 2025: St. Mary’s Parish in Tuibuang, Manipur, joyfully celebrated its Feast Day on 17 August with a solemn Eucharistic celebration under the theme: “Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; break forth into joyous song and sing praises” (Psalm 98:4). Central to the celebration was the administration of the sacraments, as 117 children received their First Holy Communion and over 106 faithful received the Sacrament of Confirmation.

Thousands of parishioners and faithful from near and far gathered for this occasion, joining in prayer and thanksgiving.

In his homily, Archbishop Linus Neli reflected on the Gospel, emphasising the power of the fire that Jesus brings into our lives. He explained that although the fire of Jesus is not visible, it can be felt as warmth and light. This ‘fire’ represents the spiritual and divine essence of Jesus. The Archbishop noted that this fire purifies us from sin, unites us as a community, and strengthens our faith.

He further highlighted how the words of Jesus serve as a cleansing fire from God, capable of uniting and purifying us from sin, impurity, and imperfection.

The celebration was graced by the presence of nine priests, twenty nuns, and numerous laypeople who gathered in faith and joy. The Holy Mass was presided over by Archbishop Neli and concelebrated by the nine priests from various parishes, with the participation of twenty religious sisters and laypeople.

“By embracing the fire of Jesus, we are baptised in His name and purified, leading us to receive the sacraments of Communion and Confirmation. This belief strengthens unity within families and society,” the Archbishop shared.

In his concluding remarks, the Archbishop urged the faithful to live by God’s Word and read the Scriptures with open hearts, allowing its message to cleanse and inspire their daily lives.

The celebration was uplifted by a powerful choir with a large number of voices singing hymnals under the leadership of Sir John Guite, adding deep meaning and beauty to the liturgy.

Once a small parish, St. Mary’s has steadily grown, with members increasing year after year as faithful from Sugnu, Imphal, and other parts of the state join the community.

The Feast Day served as a reminder to purify lives through the teachings of Jesus, reinforcing the idea that without the light of Jesus, division and disunity can arise in families and communities.

By Tungthang Zou

Download Catholic Connect App for Daily News Updates: 

Android: Click here to download

iOS: Click here to download