Williamnagar, Oct 21: In a momentous and joyous celebration, the newly constructed school building of St. Francis De Sales (SFS) School, Nongalbibra, was inaugurated in a grand ceremony by Rev. Fr. Johnson Kallidukkil, Superior General of the Missionaries of St. Francis de Sales (MSFS), who arrived all the way from Rome.

The event was graced by the Auxiliary Bishop of Tura, Most Rev. Jose Chirackal, along with several dignitaries including Soil and Water Conservation Minister Marcuise N. Marak, Local MLA and former Education Minister Rakkam A. Sangma, Chief Executive Member of GHADC Albinius R. Marak, Provincial of MSFS Rev. Fr. Sabu Francis, priests and nuns from different parishes, and senior officials from the South Garo Hills district administration.

Adding colour and vibrancy to the inaugural function were the Nokmas, Sardars, pastors, reverends of various denominations, and teachers from different schools who came together to witness the milestone event. The students of SFS School showcased their talents through songs and dances, making the occasion lively and memorable.
After the ribbon-cutting and blessing of the new school building, Auxiliary Bishop Jose Chirackal also blessed the foundation stone for the upcoming church building, marking yet another step forward for the Catholic community of Nongalbibra.

In his welcome address, Principal Fr. Abraham expressed heartfelt gratitude to the dignitaries and shared the inspiring journey and history behind the establishment of the school.

Speaking on the occasion, Rev. Fr. Sabu Francis, Provincial of MSFS, extended his congratulations to the people of Nongalbibra and credited Fr. Abraham for his dedicated and meticulous efforts in successfully completing the new structure.

The Auxiliary Bishop of Tura, in his speech, congratulated the MSFS Fathers for serving the people of Garo Hills for the past 50 years, recalling the pioneering works of Late Bishop George Mamalassery, whose vision brought various religious congregations to the region. He lauded the contributions of Christian missionaries in transforming Garo Hills, particularly in the fields of education and healthcare.

Local MLA Rakkam A. Sangma also congratulated the school community for the achievement. Reflecting on his association with the institution, he recalled how the Higher Secondary Section of SFS School was initiated. He announced that he has been contributing ₹5 lakhs annually towards the teachers’ salaries and promised to increase the amount in the coming years. He further appreciated the Catholic missionaries for their relentless efforts in uplifting Garo Hills through education.

At the outset, Minister Marcuise N. Marak conveyed warm greetings from the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K. Sangma, to the people of Nongalbibra. He expressed his gratitude to the MSFS Fathers for their dedicated service to the people of Garo Hills. The Minister also extended his thanks to the Bishop of Tura, acknowledging that it was through his efforts that various Catholic congregations came to Garo Hills. He further appreciated the Catholic missionaries for their invaluable contribution in imparting education and uplifting the people of the region. He emphasized that under the leadership of Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, the government is committed to working hand in hand with religious organizations to bring development and good governance across the state.

In his heartfelt address, Chief Guest Rev. Fr. Johnson Kallidukkil described the Garo people as “simple and beautiful” and called the new school building a “miracle made possible through faith and hard work.” He praised Fr. Abraham for his tireless dedication and congratulated the entire community, saying, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad.”

The contractor and head mason responsible for the school’s construction were also felicitated by the Auxiliary Bishop of Tura in recognition of their contribution.

The grand inaugural celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Ignatius K. Marak, marking the end of a day filled with blessings, unity, and joy.

Speaking exclusively to Hub News, Fr. Abraham expressed deep gratitude to Almighty God for the successful completion of the project. He extended special thanks to MLA Rakkam A. Sangma and Fr. Sabu Francis for their financial support, and to the Parish Council members for their continuous cooperation and dedication.

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