The Congregation of Holy Cross’s Province of North East India had three priestly ordinations over the past two months. The ordinations took place in three different states, each with its own distinct culture, tradition, and language: Meghalaya, Jharkhand and Assam. The ordination in Jharkhand was history-making, as it was the Congregation’s first from that state.

In Meghalaya, Fr. Shanborlang Mawrie, C.S.C., was ordained on 18 January by the Most. Rev. Victor Lyngdoh, Archbishop of Shillong. He was one of eight priests ordained that day in what was a large and festive Mass.

Fr. Mawrie is from St. Joseph’s Parish, Laitkor. He and his fellow ordinandi hail from the Khasi community, whose rich traditions were incorporated into the elaborate liturgical celebrations.

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Then, in Jharkhand, Fr. Anupam Beck, C.S.C., was ordained on 2 February at All Saints’ Catholic Church, Doranda, which is part of the Archdiocese of Ranchi. The Most Rev. Felix Toppo, SJ, Archbishop Emeritus, presided at the ordination.

The Mass was attended by a number of priests, religious, and faithful and included dances, music, and colors showcasing the Adivasi traditions.

Finally, in Assam, Fr. Newton Basumatary, C.S.C., was ordained on 23 February by the Most. Rev. Michael Akasius Toppo, Bishop of the Diocese of Tezpur. Just 4% of the population in the diocese is Catholic, making it a moment of great joy for the local community.

The ordination was held at St. Joseph Church, Kabirali, and was attended by many priests and religious. The cultural traditions of the Bodo community were included in the celebrations.

Following their ordinations, Fr. Mawrie has been appointed to St. Dominic Savio Parish, Nongrah, in Meghalaya; Fr. Beck to Holy Cross Parish, Mawkynrew, in Meghalaya; and Fr. Basumatary to Immaculate Conception Parish, Moharpara, in Tripura.

These three priestly ordinations were part of seven total that the Congregation anticipates celebrating in India this year. The Province of South India has three scheduled ordinations, and the Province of Tamil Nadu has one. All seven to be ordained are part of the class that took Final Vows on 2 August 2024.