- Event Date:
14-May-2025
- Updated On:
15-May-2025
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Total Photo(s):
8
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Description:
On May 14, 2025, Sacred Heart Parish in Likabali celebrated the inauguration of the Rani Maria Convent, marking the arrival of the first batch of FCC (Franciscan Clarist Congregation) sisters. The event was attended by Bishop of Itanagar Most Rev. Benny Varghese, MSFS Dibrugarh Provincial Fr. Tomson Aerathedathu, and Bharananganam Province FCC Provincial Sr. Lilly Maria.
The parish has its origins in humble beginnings, starting with nine baptisms of Bali villagers at SFS Church, Silapathar, on December 24, 1999. The community's growth was supported by Lt. Kardu Taipodia, who donated land for the church, enabling the construction of a makeshift building.
In 2009, St. Mary's Church in Bali village was separated from Silapathar, leading to the establishment of Sacred Heart Parish, Likabali, with Fr. Stephen Pou MSFS as its first parish priest. The church was blessed by Bishop John Thomas in 2010. The current parish priest is Rev. Fr. Simon Thaikho MSFS.
The opening of Rani Maria Convent is a significant development for the parish, focusing on spiritual and community service. Its first residents, Sr. Carmela FCC, Sr. Pauline FCC, and Sr. Mary Kim FCC, are dedicated to serving the needs of the local community. Sacred Heart Parish, Likabali, serves 12 villages, supporting 154 families with a total population of 820, and includes an Assistant Parish Priest to assist in its mission.