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Golden Jubilee of St. Arnold Chapel in Kachuchara Village
Ivan D’Silva, SVD
Preparations for the Golden Jubilee began a year in advance, with leaders from the sub-centre holding multiple meetings to ensure a well-organized and meaningful celebration. Although Bishop Lumen Monteiro, CSC, the Local Ordinary, had limited availability due to other commitments, he confirmed his presence for May 5. Leading up to the day, all eyes were on the sky, anxious about the weather—but the day turned out to be perfect, and everything went according to plan.
Over 450 people gathered to commemorate the occasion. The chapel was freshly painted, a new toilet block and a stage for the felicitation program were constructed. Bishop Lumen and the guest priests were welcomed in traditional Garo tribal fashion, adding cultural richness to the celebration.
Fr. Hormis John, CSC, one of the first Holy Cross missionaries to the Kachuchara community, unveiled a commemorative plaque inscribed with the following:
“This plaque is to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of St. Arnold Kachuchara Village Chapel, 1974 to 2024, blessed by Bishop Lumen Monteiro, CSC, and unveiled by Fr. Hormis John, CSC, and Fr. Ivan D’Silva, SVD, on May 5, 2025.”
The plaque was blessed by the Bishop, who also released a dove as a symbol of celebration and peace. The Holy Mass was presided over by Bishop Lumen and concelebrated by seven priests, accompanied by a melodious choir. The liturgy was preceded by a traditional entrance dance, and the history of the chapel was read aloud by Mr. Kamal Debbarma, secretary of the sub-centre.
A well-organized felicitation program followed, during which former chapel leaders were honored for their unwavering service to the Church. Mr. Nagendra Sangma, one of the oldest leaders, expressed his joy:
“I am happy to see how the Church has grown. The number of faithful has increased, and now we are able to stand on our own to preach the Gospel.”
Fr. Hormis John, reflecting on the past, shared:
“I thank God for the wonders He has done. I remember the early days when I had to walk through this area—sometimes even face wild elephants. I once had to climb a tree to save myself. Times have changed, and the Gospel has truly taken root in this part of Tripura.”
The celebration concluded with colorful cultural dances and a sumptuous meal for all attendees, bringing to a close a day filled with gratitude, unity, and spiritual joy.
