Tura, Feb 21: In a moment of profound spiritual and historical significance, the Garo Hills is set to welcome the first-ever high-profile Vatican official and Ambassador to the region. The Apostolic Nuncio- the Pope’s Ambassador to India and Nepal- Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, will visit Tura from February 28 to March 1, marking an unprecedented chapter in the Church’s history in the region.
This landmark visit represents the highest level of Vatican representation ever to reach the Garo Hills, underscoring the growing importance of the Catholic faithful in Northeast India. It is also only the second high-profile visit from the Vatican to the region, the first being the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to Shillong in 1984 — an event still remembered with deep reverence across the Northeast.
The Apostolic Nuncio will arrive at Guwahati airport on Saturday morning before proceeding to Mendal for lunch and reaching the Bishop’s House in Tura at 3:30 PM. Parishes along the route — Bajengdoba, Mendal, Jengjal, and Rongkhon — are preparing elaborate welcome gates and banners, reflecting the excitement and pride of the faithful ahead of the historic occasion.
A major highlight of the visit will be the concelebrated Holy Mass at the Cathedral, the same evening, where all clergy are expected to participate. During the homily, the Apostolic Nuncio will address priests in what is anticipated to be a deeply inspiring message. He will also offer prayers at the tombs of former Bishops. Later in the evening, at 5:30 PM, a traditional reception awaits at Sacred Heart Church in Chandmari, followed by a visit to the Shrine and the Adoration Chapel, and a public reception at the Sacred Heart Shrine.
Sunday will witness a historic gathering as the faithful assemble for the Pontifical Mass at 9:30 AM at the Sacred Heart Shrine Gate. A grand reception will precede the Mass, followed by lunch at the Shrine before the Nuncio’s departure to Guwahati.
A huge turnout is expected, with Jose Chirackal, Auxiliary Bishop of Tura, calling upon the faithful to participate wholeheartedly in Sunday’s service. In a rare move highlighting the significance of the occasion, church services in other parishes within Tura will be cancelled to enable priests and devotees to attend the Pontifical Mass. While church services in parishes outside Tura will continue as usual, devotees are warmly encouraged to take part in the historic celebration in Tura.
This visit is more than ceremonial — it is a powerful affirmation of the Garo Hills’ place within the global Catholic community. For Catholics across the region, it is a once-in-a-generation spiritual milestone that will be remembered for years to come.
