The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Union Mokokchung (ENPUM), in collaboration with the Eastern Nagaland Churches Fellowship Mokokchung (ENCFM), observed Advent Christmas today, December 3, at Mokokchung Town Hall under the theme “Gift of Love.”
The event featured Y Nuklu Phom, Team Leader of LEMSACHENLOk, Longleng, Nagaland, as the speaker. Phom addressed the gathering on the deeper meaning of Christmas, highlighting concerns about the current understanding of the holiday.
“We have now sidetracked the cradle of Christmas,” Phom stated, emphasizing that the true essence of the season is often overshadowed by materialism. Stating that the biggest gift of all is the gift of salvation, he said, “The Gift must be received with belief,” underscoring the importance of faith in accepting the message of Christmas.
Phom expressed his concern about the growing disconnect with the Christian roots of the holiday, saying, “The whole message of Christmas has been diverted. The whole perspective of Christmas is not there.” He pointed out that many Nagas have strayed from the faith, resulting in a loss of belief in Jesus Christ. “We don’t have Jesus in our soul,” he lamented.
He called on the attendees to return to the true meaning of Christmas, urging them to “accept Jesus, believe in Jesus, have conviction that he is our saviour, devote and embrace.” Phom also encouraged the community to live out the love of Christ by demonstrating compassion toward others.
“A neighbor could be anyone who desperately needs help,” he explained, urging everyone to reciprocate the love they have received by loving their neighbors.
Dr Nungshi Tzudir, Associate Professor at CTC Aolijen, emphasized the importance of not taking the little things in life for granted. Drawing a parallel with the humble beginnings of Jesus’ birth, he pointed out how God sent his message to the outcasts of society—the shepherds—and how no one would be outcast again because a savior had been born.
The event featured presentations from Konyak Youth Ministry, Chang Youth Ministry, Yimkhiung Baptist Church, and Sangtam Youth Ministry. Praise and worship were led by the Khiamniungan Youth Ministry.
Pomei Jorlim, Assistant Professor at MCTE, delivered a motivational talk, urging attendees to be grateful for what they have and to remain hopeful.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Nohochem Sangtam, General Secretary of ENPUM.