With hearts filled with joy and gratitude to Almighty God, Rev. Fr. Philemon Pumah, SDB, was ordained a priest on 16th January 2025. The Priestly Ordination was conferred by His Lordship, Most Rev. Paul Mattekatt, D.D., Bishop of Diphu, at Mary Mother of God Church, Umswai, West Karbi Anglong, Assam, at 10:00 AM. The solemn event was concelebrated by more than 30 priests and witnessed by thousands of faithful from Umswai and neighboring Catholic parishes.
During his homily, Bishop Paul Mattekatt exhorted the newly ordained priest to be a man of prayer, embodying the values he preaches and lives. He encouraged Fr. Philemon to remain steadfast in his vocation as a witness of Christ’s mission and to continue serving the people of God with faith and dedication.
The ordination ceremony was followed by a grand felicitation program, where Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province, congratulated Fr. Philemon on his ordination. He described the occasion as a “great blessing upon the family” and a testament to God’s favor upon the parish of Umswai, which has produced numerous priests and religious over the years. Fr. Kuricheal highlighted the dedication of those who nurture vocations in Umswai, calling it a place where vocations thrive. He assured Fr. Philemon of the Salesian family’s unwavering support and prayers for a fruitful mission in God’s vineyard.
Adding to the joy of the occasion, Fr. Silverius Amsong, SDB, released a book titled “Lai Sangar” during the felicitation program, marking another milestone for the Catholic community of Umswai.