The Diocese of Kohima is observing a solemn moment in its spiritual calendar as it holds a series of Requiem Eucharistic Celebrations in memory of the late Pope Francis. Under the guidance of Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, the faithful are coming together to pay tribute to a Pope who reshaped the global Catholic Church with humility, compassion, and powerful words. Three official requiem Masses were planned across key parishes of the Diocese. The first was held on April 24 at Holy Cross Church in Dimapur, followed by a second on April 25 at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral in Kohima. The final Mass will take place at St. Joseph Church in Chümoukedima on April 26, offering the faithful another opportunity to collectively mourn and remember the Pope. During the Mass at the Cathedral in Kohima, Bishop James Thoppil delivered a moving homily that reflected on the life and papacy of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday, marking the end of a historic 12-year reign as the head of the Roman Catholic Church. “The whole world is mourning,” the Bishop said, adding that Pope Francis’ legacy will live on through his messages and the example he set. “His simplicity, his closeness to the people, and his ability to connect through words and gestures made him truly beloved.”
The Bishop highlighted the many “firsts” associated with Pope Francis: he was the first Jesuit pope, the first Latin American pope, and the first non-European pontiff in over a thousand years. His election in the wake of Pope Benedict XVI’s resignation—an event not seen in six centuries—further underscored the unique nature of his papacy. Bishop Thoppil also recalled the late Pope’s emphasis on inclusion, mercy, and social justice. He referenced several of Pope Francis’ most enduring phrases that defined his leadership: “Don’t forget to pray for me,” “Don’t forget the poor,” “The Church as a field hospital,” and “The throwaway culture.” These, the Bishop said, were not simply rhetorical expressions, but guiding principles that Pope Francis lived by.
“Death is not the end of everything, but a new beginning,” the Bishop quoted the late Pope, offering words of comfort to the gathered crowd. The Mass was attended by numerous priests, nuns, and lay faithful from various parts of Nagaland who came together in prayer and remembrance.
