"In a momentous gathering, over 10,000 Catholics from across Manipur warmly welcomed Archbishop Linus Neli during his installation on December 8. This significant event unfolded against the backdrop of escalating ethnic violence between Hindus and Christians in the state.
The solemn service, held at St. John Bosco Parish in Senapati, saw the outgoing Archbishop Dominic Lumon leading the proceedings. Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, delivered a poignant message, emphasizing the need for unity amidst the prevailing conflict and hardships.
Attended by 18 bishops from northeast India, over 200 priests, and 500 nuns, the service addressed the imperative for collaboration among clergy, religious, and the faithful for the well-being of the Church and the pursuit of peace.
Lumon, retiring after 17 years of overseeing the state's 100,000 Catholics, stressed the importance of a harmonious relationship within the Church.
The installation occurred amid a backdrop of prolonged violence between the majority Meiteis (mostly Hindus) and the minority Kukis (Christians), resulting in nearly 200 casualties and displacement of thousands.
Manipur, situated at the border with Myanmar, has long grappled with conflicts rooted in land disputes and religious differences among the Meitei, Kuki, and Naga tribes.
A call for peace resonated through Girelli's concluding message, expressing concern over the unprecedented violence and urging concerted efforts for justice and reconciliation.
The Catholic community, despite the limited capacity of the church, gathered with enthusiasm, watching the two-hour-long service on large screens at St. Xavier’s College.
Addressing the assembly, Neli urged prayers for peace, justice, and harmony in Manipur's critical period, emphasizing the collective responsibility of all stakeholders. The 66-year-old archbishop, born in Senapati district, brings a wealth of experience from his roles in various institutions, including the St. John Medical College and Hospital and the Oriens major seminary.
The event, held in Senapati due to the ongoing violence, was deemed historic by Mathew Kamei, President of the Manipur Catholic Association. Kamei expressed hope for Neli to be a decisive and understanding leader in addressing the crisis.
Reflecting on the location choice, Neli highlighted that holding the installation in Senapati allowed the attendance of many who might have been unable to participate if held in Imphal. A senior Kuki police official, forced to flee Imphal during the violence, expressed gratitude for being part of this significant chapter in the Church's history."