SHILLONG: Thousands of Catholic faithful from across the Shillong Archdiocese converged at the Cathedral Parish on Sunday to participate in the annual Eucharistic Procession, a significant event in the Church’s liturgical.
The day began with a Solemn Holy Mass celebrated by Most Rev. Bernard Laloo, Auxiliary Bishop of the Shillong Archdiocese, in the presence of Most Rev. Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh, Archbishop of Shillong, along with priests from various parishes under the archdiocese.
Later in the afternoon, the Eucharistic Procession commenced from the Cathedral grounds, led by the cross and the Cathedral band. Various parish groups and communities, including Hindi-speaking faithful, Mizos, Bodos, Nagas, Karbis, and others, joined in the procession.
The vehicle carrying the Holy Eucharist, accompanied by Archbishop Lyngdoh and Bishop Laloo, made a solemn circuit around the Cathedral before halting at Calvary. Children dressed in white led the procession, symbolizing purity and devotion.
Addressing the congregation during the evening service, Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh reminded the faithful that the year 2025 has been declared as the Year of Reconciliation, urging everyone to continue fostering peace and forgiveness in their lives.
“God calls us to be reconciled with Him. Without reconciliation, there can be no true peace, salvation, or renewal,” he said. Quoting Scripture, the Archbishop emphasized the need for Christians to reconcile with one another before offering prayers and sacrifices, promising that such acts would bring abundant blessings.
He called on all Christians to live in harmony within their families, communities, and parishes, and to be “instruments of peace and unity.”
“The love of God is greater than all our weaknesses. Let us reconcile with ourselves and with one another,” Archbishop Lyngdoh added.
He also announced that 2026 will be observed as the Year of the Faithful, dedicated to celebrating the vital role of lay members in the life of the Church.
Concluding the day’s celebration, Archbishop Lyngdoh imparted his blessing to the faithful, marking the end of a day filled with devotion, reflection, and unity.
