New Church Blessed in Mawkhap, Meghalaya

Mawkhap, Meghalaya, December 20, 2025 — The Catholic faithful of Mawkhap witnessed a significant moment with the blessing of a newly constructed church under Umsning Parish. The celebration drew over 2,000 faithful and was held in connection with the centenary of Our Lady’s request for the Five First Saturdays Devotion.

The blessing and Holy Mass were conducted under the pastoral leadership of Fr. Pius Shadap, Parish Priest and Episcopal Vicar of Umsning, and Fr. Edward Sten, Assistant Parish Priest. Members of the Seng Kynthei Catholic Cathedral Parish and their Rosary Group from Laitumkhrah also participated, having supported the Mawkhap community in the Five First Saturdays Devotion over the past year.

Located in a remote and forested region, Mawkhap remains one of the farthest pastoral outstations of Umsning Parish. The new church reflects the Church’s ongoing mission to accompany and serve Catholic communities in isolated areas.

The church features Marian symbolism linked to the Fatima message and will serve nearly 1,000 Catholic families from 20 villages, benefiting a population of more than 6,000 people. Fr. Edward Sten supervised the construction of the church.

As a mark of gratitude, villagers honoured church leaders, and handmade rosaries blessed by Victor Lyngdoh were distributed to the faithful. The occasion marked a new chapter of faith and pastoral life for the Mawkhap community.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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