The Claretian Missionaries celebrated a historic milestone in the remote village of Lungthulien, in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, with the Canonical Erection of St. Claret Parish and the Blessing of the New Presbytery.
The occasion marked a moment of deep faith and joy for the local Catholic community, symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter of hope, commitment, and unity.
The solemn Holy Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Archbishop Linus Neli of Imphal, and concelebrated by Fr. Joseph Mappilaparambil, C.M.F., Provincial Superior, along with several other clergy.
Adding special significance to the day, 18 children received their First Holy Communion, while 11 candidates were confirmed, strengthening their lifelong commitment to the Catholic faith.
The event also highlighted interfaith harmony, as members of various Christian denominations joined in the celebrations, reflecting a spirit of unity, cooperation, and mutual respect.
The program concluded with a felicitation ceremony and a community meal, fostering fellowship within the parish and beyond.
The St. Claret Mission at Lungthulien was inaugurated on November 16, 2022. Situated in one of the remotest areas of the Archdiocese of Imphal, the mission emphasizes evangelization, education, and social services, including disaster relief, healthcare, and educational initiatives for communities affected by regional conflict.
The Claretians have been active in Manipur since the 1950s, having initially established two to three parishes before leaving for other missions in Northeast India. They resumed ministry in Manipur in 2022, and in 2023, the Northeast India Province of the Claretian Missionaries was officially established to support and expand their work. Recently, they also inaugurated St. Thomas Parish at Laipharok Maring Village, along with its presbytery and St. Claret School at Lamzang Village.
The Canonical Erection of St. Claret Parish stands as a testament to the growth of the Church in the region and the Claretians’ enduring commitment to building faith-filled, resilient communities in challenging contexts.
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