The Children Christmas Cake Carol Competition (C5) has long been a cherished tradition in Mokokchung, bringing together children aged 6 to 12 under the auspices of the Mokokchung Town Baptist Arogo (MTBA). However, an alarming trend has emerged over the years: a noticeable decline in the number of participants. Once a vibrant event with over a thousand children singing in joyful unison, the competition now sees dwindling numbers, with many fellowships that previously fielded over a hundred participants struggling to match those figures today.
This decline raises important questions. One factor could be the limited scope of the event, as only children affiliated with the MTBA can participate. This excludes children from at least seven of Mokokchung’s 18 wards, narrowing the pool of potential participants. Yet, this exclusion alone does not fully explain the sharp drop in numbers. Historical records show that participation was significantly higher even within these parameters, indicating a deeper societal issue.
A plausible explanation lies in the town’s declining fertility rates. Anecdotal evidence and demographic observations suggest that the younger generation in Mokokchung is smaller than its predecessor. This could be indicative of sub-replacement fertility, where the total fertility rate falls below the level needed to sustain the population. Such trends are not unique to Mokokchung but reflect broader demographic shifts observed globally, particularly in urban areas. Understanding the root causes of this demographic shift is crucial.
The MTBA, as an influential institution within the community, could take the lead in commissioning research into the town’s fertility trends. Insights from such studies could inform strategies to address the challenges posed by a shrinking youth population, not just for the competition but for the community’s long-term vitality.
The implications of declining fertility extend beyond the immediate concerns of reduced participation in events like C5. A church operating in a society grappling with sub-replacement fertility faces the potential challenge of a shrinking congregation. This could affect the church’s ability to fulfill its mission and sustain its activities over time. The C5 competition’s decreasing numbers serve as a microcosm of a broader demographic reality.