A Profile of an Inspiring Missionary
(Give me Souls and Take Away the Rest - St John Bosco)
Yanrenthung J Humtsoe
Sister Aloysia Lotha was born in Lakhuti Village, Wokha, Nagaland, to Lt Shenponthung Ambrose Yanthan and Lt. Ratseno Monica Yanthan. She received her Baptism at the age of 9 on 28th November, 1953. Her family embraced the Catholic faith in 1951.
She made her first profession and became a religious sister on 8th December, 1974, marking her entry into the MSMHC congregation as the first nun from Nagaland.
Her early education was acquired at Aitepyong Government ME School.
Sister Aloysia's religious calling was ignited by the inspiration she drew from Mother Mary. She describes it as a miraculous moment when, prior to her evening studies, she would pray fervently for guidance from Mother Mary regarding her future. It was then that she felt an overwhelming desire to embark on a missionary journey, spreading the Gospel—a call that burned within her like an unquenchable fire.
Her parents' unwavering faith in God and the Church significantly influenced her spiritual journey. Her father, a devout Catholic, ensured their family partook in morning and evening prayers, educating them about the Catholic Church and the life of Saint John Bosco.
Despite the absence of proper educational avenues in her early years, Sister Aloysia expressed her deep desire to become a missionary to her Parish Priest.
Her path to the convent began when Bishop D Rosario SDB, visiting Akuk Village from Dibrugarh, accepted her expressed interest in joining a convent with a warm and encouraging smile. Consequently, he sent her to the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians in Barpeta for education and to pursue her Vocation. In May 1967, accompanied by Sr. Jacqueline Viegas, she commenced her studies at Little Flower School in Malki, Shillong.
Her life in Malki, during her time as an aspirant, was marked by numerous challenges. However, one night, a revelatory dream of seeing Heaven open, with Jesus, St. Peter, and St. Don Bosco seated on thrones, filled her with immense joy, rejuvenating her spirit and resolve.
In 1972, she successfully passed the HSLC examination from Little Flower School, Malki, becoming part of the first batch to clear matric from the Meghalaya Board of Education.
She officially entered the Postulancy/Pre-Novitiate in Barpeta on May 24, 1972, receiving a medal. Subsequently, she returned to Malki to support both the school and the community.
Prior to her Novitiate, Sister Aloysia underwent her first retreat from December 1- 8th, 1972. On 8th December, 1972, she became a novice, eagerly stepping halfway towards realizing her dream to become a missionary. Her eagerness to learn and become a religious sister intensified during her second year in the Novitiate, beginning on 8th December, 1973.
On December 8, 1974, Sr. Aloysia made her first profession, becoming a religious sister. Her younger brother Lt. Marianus Yanthan, studying at Dibrugarh College, and her cousin brother Daniel Yanthan, pursuing B.Ed. in Shillong, graced the occasion. Her sister Lt. Barbara, cousin brother Barnabas, and Rita from Lakhuti Village also joined in support. Her brother Marianus, expressing heartfelt encouragement, conveyed, "even though our daddy is no more, I came instead of him to participate in your profession ceremony," profoundly touching her heart with joy and comfort.
In 1975, she got enrolled at St. Mary's College, Shillong, Meghalaya, concurrently pursuing her religious studies and college education.
In 1980, while serving at St. Joseph's Convent, Tseminyu, she expressed her desire to make her Final Profession during a visit to her community by Vicar General Sr. Elizabeth Packumala. Responding to her eagerness, Sr. Elizabeth affirmed, "Sr. Aloysia, if you are willing, we are happy to give you permission to make your final profession." Consequently, on December 8, 1980, she made her final profession, solidifying her permanent membership within the congregation.
From 1983 to 1989, she was transferred to Mary Hill Convent in Jalukie, appointed as the touring Sister and a school teacher. Responding to Bishop Abraham's request, Sr. Aloysia took up the responsibility of overseeing vocations within the diocese, ensuring the recruitment of young girls into religious life during this period.
In 1984, recognizing the need for unity among Zeliangrong Catholic Women, Sister proposed the establishment of an association for them. Her suggestion was warmly accepted, leading to the official inauguration of the Zeliangrong Catholic Women's Association office on October 4, 1984, at Samzuiram.
Her transfer in 1989 didn't hinder her service; instead, she authored a catechism book in Nagamese titled "Jesus Christ and His Church," aiming to educate those unfamiliar with the Catholic faith. Her work impressed Bishop Abraham (SDB) and Fr. P.V Joseph, the Vicar General, who reviewed the book.
Between 1990 and 1992, she served at St. Mary's Convent, Senapati, Manipur, teaching at Don Bosco School. Subsequently, in 1993, she completed her B.Ed. from Kohima.
In 1994, she assumed the role of Headmistress at Holy Spirit School, Longpi, Manipur. However, the harsh climate adversely affected her health, leading her to request a transfer. She then moved to St. Joseph's Convent, Longleng, serving as the Headmistress from 1995 to 1996.
During her tenure as Headmistress at St. Mary's School, Lozaphuhu Village, she commemorated her "Silver Jubilee of Religious Profession" on September 21, 1999, in the presence of Bishop Jose Mukala, along with other esteemed guests.
From 2000 to 2002, she was appointed as the Headmistress at Don Bosco School, Chiephobozou.
In her second transfer at St. Joseph's Convent, Tseminyu, from 2003 to 2007, Sr. Aloysia, besides teaching at Don Bosco School, engaged in village apostolate, delivering various recollection talks and supporting the local community.
Between 2008 and 2009, she was posted at St. Joseph's Convent, Tadubi and served as a teacher at St. Joseph's High School. Her assignments from 2010 to 2016 led her to St. Mary's Convent, Rowriah, Jorhat, where she undertook diverse responsibilities such as school cashier, garden maintenance, poultry management, and family visits.
Returning to Mary Hill Convent, Jalukie, in 2017, she assumed roles in Praying Ministry, Evangelisation, and Catechetics: responsibilities she continues to fulfill till date.
Sr. Aloysia emphasizes the priceless nature of religious and priestly vocations, highlighting their invaluable contribution to individuals and communities, as these individuals selflessly dedicate their lives for the betterment of others.
Sister Aloysia Lotha Golden Jubilee of Religious life was celebrated on 17th December, 2023 at St. Mary's Catholic Church, Lakhuti with Rev. Fr. John Ntonse as the main celebrant.
The writer is grand nephew of Rev Sr Aloysia Lotha
