The faithful of St. Joseph’s Co-Cathedral, Panbazar on 19April 2026 rejoiced as they welcomed their new Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Thomas Lakra SDB, who formally assumed charge following the transfer of Rev. Fr. Vincent Xalxo SDB to his new assignment at Damra.

Fr. Thomas Lakra is no stranger to the parish community. Having served as the Vice Provincial of the Salesian Province of Guwahati about twelve years ago, he has maintained a close connection with the parish, frequently participating in its celebrations and presiding over Sunday Eucharistic services. His return has been met with warmth and familiarity by the faithful.

The installation ceremony began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of the Guwahati Salesian Province, who was delegated by the Archbishop of Guwahati, Most Rev. John Moolachira, to officiate the installation. Fr. Alex Mathew welcomed the gathering and introduced the significance of the ceremony, followed by the reading of the official appointment letter from the Archbishop.

In his homily, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, Provincial highlighted the essence of servant leadership, drawing inspiration from Jesus Christ, and called upon the faithful to extend their prayerful support and cooperation to the new Parish Priest. The liturgical rites of installation included the recitation of the Nicene Creed by Fr. Thomas, followed by the oath-taking ceremony. A significant moment of the ceremony was the handing over of the keys of the tabernacle, symbolizing the responsibility, authority, and spiritual leadership entrusted to him.

Following the Holy Mass, a brief felicitation programme was held. Mr. Romanus Horo, a senior member of the parish, welcomed Fr. Thomas Lakra on behalf of the Parish Pastoral Council and the entire parish community, both present and absent. The celebration concluded on a joyful note with a cake-cutting ceremony and the distribution of refreshments among the faithful.

News Courtesy: Fr Alex Kattakayam SDB