Shillong, July 19: The Catholic community of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, Pynthorumkhrah, on Sunday warmly welcomed Fr. Roy Anthony Parikal as the new Parish Priest, succeeding Fr. Lawrence Nongkseh.

Fr. Roy Anthony Parikal was formally installed by Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Shillong, during a Eucharistic celebration held at the parish church.

As part of the installation ceremony, the decree of appointment issued by the Archdiocese was read out by Catechist Babu John Syiemlieh, emphasizing the shared commitment and collaboration between the Parish Priest, the Parish Council, and the faithful.

In keeping with the traditions of the Catholic Church, Archbishop Lyngdoh led Fr. Roy Anthony to significant parts of the church, including the Baptismal Font, the Confessional, and the Tabernacle, symbolizing his pastoral responsibilities and commitment to serving the parish community.

The ceremony also included the formal handing over of the key to the Tabernacle, followed by the signing of the official record of commitment by the Archbishop, the newly appointed Parish Priest, and members of the Parish Council.

History of the Parish

Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, Pynthorumkhrah, was established as an independent parish on April 1, 1997, after being carved out of Mawlai Parish.

Its first Parish Priest was Fr. Peter Schiavon, SDB, an Italian missionary who played a pivotal role in establishing and developing the parish during its formative years. The parish was inaugurated by Archbishop Resto Tarsisius Phanrang, SDB, through Fr. Michael Marbaniang.

Following Fr. Schiavon’s illness in October 2012, he requested the appointment of a successor. Fr. Ioannis War Pakma subsequently assumed charge as the second Parish Priest on October 19, 2012, and was installed by Archbishop Dominic Jala, SDB. He served the parish for more than seven years.

He was succeeded by Fr. Lawrence Nongkseh, who served as the third Parish Priest until 2026.

With his installation, Fr. Roy Anthony Parikal becomes the fourth Parish Priest of Sts. Peter & Paul Parish, Pynthorumkhrah.

Parishioners expressed their joy at his appointment and voiced hope that under his leadership, the parish will continue to grow in faith, unity, and service to God and the community.