Kohima, February 22, 2026: The Lotha Catholic Khümshüm Kohima (LCKK) celebrated its Golden Jubilee with great devotion and thanksgiving at the LCKK Community Hall, Peraciezie, commemorating 50 years of faith, unity, and service to both the Church and society.
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| Members of Lotha Catholic Khümshüm Kohima pose with Bishop James Thoppil and Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton during the Golden Jubilee celebration at Peraciezie, Kohima. (Image: X@YanthungoPatton) |
The milestone celebration brought together clergy, religious leaders, community members, government officials, and faithful from different parts of the state to reflect on the community’s journey over the past five decades. Held under the theme “One in Christ, United in Mission,” the event highlighted the enduring commitment of the LCKK to Christian values, evangelization, and community-building.
The central feature of the jubilee celebration was a solemn Eucharistic service led by Bishop of Kohima Diocese, Most Rev. James Thoppil, who served as the main celebrant. The service was attended by hundreds of faithful who gathered to offer prayers of gratitude for the blessings, growth, and achievements experienced by the community since its establishment.
The occasion was further honoured by the presence of Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister for Home and Border Affairs, Yanthungo Patton, who attended as the special guest. His participation underscored the significance of the Golden Jubilee not only for the Catholic community but also for the wider society in Nagaland.
One of the most memorable moments of the celebration was the blessing of the Golden Jubilee monolith and grotto by Bishop James Thoppil. The structures were dedicated as symbols of gratitude and remembrance, representing five decades of God's guidance, protection, and grace upon the community. Following the blessing ceremony, the jubilee monolith was formally unveiled by Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton.
Another important feature of the programme was the hoisting of the Golden Jubilee flag by Rev. Fr. Matthew Mhabemo, Parish Priest of St. Francis De Sales Church, Kohima. The symbolic act marked the official commencement of the jubilee observances and served as a reminder of the community’s shared mission and unity in faith.
A particularly significant spiritual moment during the celebration was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation by Bishop Thoppil to 63 members of the faithful. For the recipients, the sacrament represented a major milestone in their spiritual journey and a deeper commitment to their Christian faith.
In his address to the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Yanthungo Patton congratulated the LCKK community on reaching the historic milestone. He described the Golden Jubilee as a tribute to the vision and perseverance of the pioneers who laid the foundation of the community, as well as the dedication of priests, catechists, church leaders, and generations of faithful who nurtured and strengthened it over the years.
Patton noted that the success and growth of the community reflected the values of sacrifice, unity, and service. He encouraged members to continue working together in promoting peace, harmony, and social progress while remaining rooted in their faith.
The Deputy Chief Minister also expressed hope that the jubilee celebrations would inspire renewed commitment among the faithful and strengthen efforts towards community development and nation-building. He emphasised the important role that faith-based organisations play in fostering social cohesion, education, and humanitarian service in Nagaland.
The history of the Lotha Catholic Khümshüm Kohima dates back to the early 1970s, when a small group of Lotha Catholic faithful, many of them government employees stationed in Kohima, began gathering for prayer and fellowship. Despite limited resources and humble beginnings, the community steadily grew in strength and numbers.
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The organisation was formally established in 1976 and has since evolved into a vibrant and active faith community. Over the years, it has contributed significantly to church activities, social service initiatives, youth development, and the promotion of Christian values within society.
Throughout its 50-year journey, the LCKK has played an important role in nurturing faith, fostering unity among its members, and supporting various community welfare programmes. The Golden Jubilee celebration provided an opportunity not only to honour the past but also to look ahead with renewed hope and commitment.
The event concluded with cultural presentations, fellowship gatherings, and messages of gratitude, reflecting the joy and thanksgiving of a community celebrating five decades of spiritual growth, service, and unity. As the Lotha Catholic Khümshüm Kohima enters its next chapter, members expressed confidence that the values and vision established by its pioneers will continue to guide future generations.
