Dibrugarh: As Christmas approaches, the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Dibrugarh—one of the oldest cathedral churches in the Northeast—stands on the brink of a historic moment.
Built in 1931, the iconic church is likely to witness its final Christmas celebrations within its present structure this year, marking the end of an era that has shaped the religious and cultural life of the city for nearly a century.
At the heart of this transition is the historic Catholic Church at Khalihamari, whose altar now hosts a beautifully crafted tableau of the infant Jesus, surrounded by delicately decorated cribs.
Parishioners have been seen diligently adorning the statue of Mary in the church compound with candles and ribbons, preparing the sacred space for what could be a deeply emotional festive season.
One of the most striking features of the Sacred Heart Cathedral is its ancient mosaic artwork.
Renowned for its intricate detailing and rich spiritual symbolism, these mosaics have stood as silent witnesses to time, devotion, and history. For decades, they have not only reflected the faith of generations but also narrated stories of perseverance and belief, making the Cathedral a landmark of immense religious and cultural importance in Upper Assam.
However, the grandeur of the Cathedral now stands overshadowed by concerns over safety. The 1,500-seating-capacity structure has deteriorated significantly over the years. Visible cracks have appeared across its walls, ceilings, and roof, raising serious safety concerns for the congregation.
“The Cathedral structure has deteriorated significantly, rendering the building unsafe. As a result, plans are underway to demolish the existing structure to make way for a new church building,” said Fr Philip Purty, Financial Administrator of the Catholic Diocese of Dibrugarh.
Fr Purty further noted that this Christmas may well be the last one celebrated within the present walls of the Cathedral. “If so, the midnight prayers and hymns this season will carry a deeper meaning, echoing gratitude, nostalgia, and farewell, as the faithful gather one last time beneath the mosaic-clad walls that have sheltered their prayers for nearly a century,” he said.
Adding to the Cathedral’s historical significance is the tomb of Fr Leo Piasecki, a Polish Salesian missionary who played a pivotal role in establishing the Catholic mission in Upper Assam in the early 20th century.
Fr Piasecki, who passed away in 1957, rests on the epistle side of the church, further anchoring the Cathedral’s place in the region’s spiritual history.
For the people of Dibrugarh, the Sacred Heart Cathedral holds a special place in their hearts. As one of the city’s oldest structures, it is deeply intertwined with personal memories—of baptisms, weddings, prayers, and communal gatherings—that span generations.
This year, the faithful will observe the Christmas vigil Holy Mass on December 24 at 9 pm, followed by the Christmas Day service at 8 am on December 25. Both services will be presided over by Albert Hemrom, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Dibrugarh, and are expected to draw large congregations mindful of the occasion’s historic weight.
Beyond the church premises, the Christmas spirit has spread across Christian neighbourhoods in Dibrugarh.
Porches and living rooms glow with decorated Christmas trees adorned with bells and satin ribbons, while restaurants, malls, and shops compete in festive displays featuring stars and Santa figurines, lending the city a celebratory glow even as the Cathedral prepares for a poignant farewell.
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