St. Stephen Catholic Church, Tangla, celebrated its Platinum Jubilee on October 20, 2026, marking 75 years of faith, service, and missionary presence, with a solemn Eucharistic celebration and a gathering of two bishops, civil representatives, priests, religious, and parishioners. The occasion commemorated the rich history of the Tangla Mission and its enduring contribution to the spiritual, educational, and social development of the people of Tangla and neighbouring areas.

The solemn Holy Mass was celebrated by Archbishop John Moolachira D.D., Archbishop of Guwahati, in the presence of Rt. Rev. Michael Akasius Toppo D.D., Bishop of Tezpur. The celebration brought together the faithful in thanksgiving to God for 75 years of blessings, dedication, and service to the people.

In his homily, Bishop Michael Akasius reflected on the history of the Tangla Mission and highlighted the pioneering contribution of Rev. Fr. Guido Colussi SDB, who laid the foundations of the Salesian mission in the region. He recalled the dedication and sacrifices of the early missionaries who worked tirelessly to spread the Gospel and promote education, human development, and human values among the local communities. The Archbishop encouraged the faithful to cherish this rich legacy and continue the mission of faith, love, and service in the years ahead.

Addressing the gathering, Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati, expressed gratitude for the dedicated service of generations of Salesians and other contributors who had nurtured the Tangla Mission over the past 75 years. He acknowledged the efforts of priests, including Fr. Guido Colussi SDB and many others, whose commitment had made a significant difference in the lives of the people, particularly through the school and boys’ hostel.

The Provincial also highlighted the active participation of the youth, which had given the mission a distinctive identity and strengthened its presence in the region. He observed that priests, religious, thinkers, and committed believers had contributed to the growth of the parish through their love, faith, and service. The mission had played an important role in the development of surrounding communities and inspired many young people to embrace the priesthood and religious life. He further described Tangla Parish as a living example of unity and harmony among people from diverse communities.

Fr. Sebastian acknowledged the contributions of the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Bhaskar Chinthamalla SDB, Fr. Daniel S. Sangma SDB, Fr Silverius Amsong SDB and the other priests who continued to serve the parish. He thanked the various parish associations, the parish council, and all the parishioners for their cooperation and generous support. He also extended his appreciation to the public representatives, political leaders, organizing committee members, and distinguished guests whose presence reflected a shared commitment to cooperation, unity, and mutual respect.

Emphasizing the significance of the jubilee, the Provincial said that the celebration was not merely an occasion to look back on the years gone by but also an opportunity to renew commitments for the future. He expressed the hope that the parish would continue to be a vibrant space for young people, a centre of learning and unity, and a source of hope for all. He called upon the faithful to work together in faith and collaboration, carrying the mission forward and embodying the Gospel in their daily lives. He concluded by invoking the intercession of the saints and the maternal guidance of Mary Help of Christians, for the continued growth and mission of the parish.

The celebration was also graced by representatives of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC). Shri Rihon Daimari, Deputy Chief of the Bodoland Territorial Council, attended the jubilee and appreciated the contribution of the Tangla Mission to the development of Tangla and neighbouring areas. He acknowledged the mission’s role in promoting education and contributing to the social advancement of the people. Shri Paul Toppo, Member of the Council Legislative Assembly of the Bodoland Territorial Council, was also present on the occasion, along with other distinguished guests and community representatives.

The Platinum Jubilee celebrations were preceded by three days of special programmes dedicated to different sections of the parish community. The Youth Jubilee Celebration was held on October 17, animated by Fr. Cletus Pattamkulam SDB. The Women’s Jubilee Celebration followed on October 18, animated by Fr. Nathaniel Narjary, while the Men’s Jubilee Celebration took place on October 19, animated by Fr. Thomas Lakra SDB. These programmes provided opportunities for prayer, fellowship, reflection, and renewed commitment among the parishioners.