Shillong, October 7: The Salesian Province of St. John Paul II, Shillong, celebrated the diamond, golden and silver jubilees of 14 priests during a Holy Mass held at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Pynthorumkhrah, on Wednesday.

The celebration marked significant milestones in priestly ordination and religious profession, honouring decades of commitment to the Salesian vocation and service to the Church and community.

Fr. John Kalapura and Fr. Isaac Mattappillil celebrated their Diamond Jubilee of Ordination, marking 60 years of priesthood. Fr. Roland Kharkrang and Fr. Edmund Gomes observed their Golden Jubilee of Ordination, completing 50 years of priestly ministry.

Meanwhile, Fr. Devasia Vazhayil, Fr. George Palamattathil, Fr. Philip Barjo and Fr. Thomas Pampaddiyil marked their Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession, commemorating 50 years of commitment to Salesian religious life.

The Silver Jubilee of Ordination was celebrated by Fr. Kenny Pakma, Fr. Stephen Kharbani and Fr. Sylvester Synrem, who completed 25 years of priesthood. Fr. Dominic Ngul T T, Fr. Michael Makri and Fr. Remol Marak observed their Silver Jubilee of Religious Profession.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr. Edmund Gomes expressed gratitude to God for five decades of priestly ministry and thanked fellow priests, community members, friends and well-wishers for their support throughout his journey.

Reflecting on his vocation, he acknowledged the people and experiences that shaped his ministry, while also speaking about human limitations, the challenges of pastoral service and the strength needed to remain faithful to his calling.

The celebration brought the jubilarians and the faithful together in thanksgiving, honouring their decades of service and their continued dedication to the Salesian vocation and religious life.