NESCOM, Guwahati, Feb. 18, 2026 — St. Vincent Pallotti Parish, Siyum, in the Diocese of Itanagar, has marked significant milestones in its journey of faith, highlighted by a recent pastoral visit of Bishop Benny Varghese and the celebration of First Holy Communion for five children.

The Catholic presence in Siyum began in 2000 when Prem Bhai visited the area, baptised initial members and laid the foundation for the emerging faith community. At the time, only two faithful formed the local Church, which was pastorally cared for by Fr. Mathew of Daporijo Parish.

As the number of believers increased, Siyum was established as an independent parish in 2009, covering 13 villages, with Fr. Augustine Kolanchery appointed as its first Parish Priest. Today, the parish comprises 252 Catholic families, numbering over 2,000 faithful across the 13 villages.

On February 16, 2026, Bishop Benny Varghese undertook a pastoral visit to Lemiking, located about 60 kilometres from Siyum, and to Taksing, near the India–China border, where he met and encouraged Catholic families in these remote areas. The following day, February 17, he presided over the Eucharistic celebration in Siyum, during which five children received their First Holy Communion.

The parish community expressed gratitude to Mr. P. Zimik of “Faith Comes from Hearing – North East” for visiting the region and witnessing the use of audio Bibles in remote villages. Appreciation was also extended to Shri Takap Dukom, President of the Arunachal Pradesh Catholic Association (APCA), Upper Subansiri, and Shri Nyabin Hagi, General Secretary, for accompanying the Bishop during the pastoral visit.

The Diocese of Itanagar acknowledged the contribution of the Pallottine Fathers, under the leadership of Fr. Ronald SAC and his team, for guiding the parish community and supporting its growth and development.