The events unfolded on 17 January 2016 will be marked in golden letters in the history of the Society of St Paul in India. Dn Jeffrey Khongsni, the first Pauline priest from the North-East India, was ordained a priest on this day at Resurrection Church, Pynursla, Shillong by His Lordship Rt Rev Victor Lyngdoh, Bishop of Nongstion. Meghalaya which is the home-state of Jeffrey is one of the seven North-Eastern states of India. The unique and diverse ethnic, cultural and linguistic elements of North-East were well-fused into the colourful ordination ceremony which was actively attended by over ten thousand faithful besides a good number of the members of the Pauline family, priests and religious. The bishop in his homily reminded the candidate about his priestly duties and challenged him to be another Christ by being a selfless, sacrificial and merciful leader. The newly ordained was generous in his words of appreciation for all those who accompanied him on his journey to priesthood. After the fellowship meal, Fr Jeffrey led the faithful in a Eucharistic procession which was followed by variety entertainments displaying the unique cultural diversities of the land that lasted for the whole day. Fr Jeffrey celebrated his first thanksgiving Eucharist on 18 January at his home parish in the presence of his beloved family members, well-wishers and a large number of faithful. Congratulations and best wishes dear Jeffrey!
India: Priestly Ordination of Jeffrey Khongsni
