Naga Christian Churches and Fellowships of Shillong Unite in Worship and Witness
On November 30, 2025, in a deeply meaningful and historic moment for the Naga community in Shillong, all 13 Naga Christian Churches and Fellowships in the city came together for the first time to celebrate a Combined Advent Service under the theme “Emmanuel: God with us” (Matthew 1:23). Hosted by the Naga Christian Fellowship Shillong (NCFS) at the Naga Community Hall, Nagaland House, this gathering marked not only the beginning of the Advent season but also a renewed sense of unity and spiritual warmth among Nagas living away from home.
The service, led by Dr. Lithrongla Sangtam, Associate Pastor of NCFS, carried a tone of reverence and joyful anticipation. Advent, the season in which Christians prepare to welcome the birth of Christ, became a powerful reminder that even in a bustling city far from the hills of Nagaland, God’s presence journeys with His people.
A special Advent message was delivered by Dr. Bijoy Sangma, Chairman of the Human Rights Commission, Baptist World Alliance, who urged the congregation to live united in Christ in a world of differences and disunity. He reminded the gathering that authentic Christian witness shines brightest when believers stand together in unity and love. For Emmanuel pulls down the barriers of tribes and denominations.
Adding to this spirit of unity, Rev. Vemuriyi Avi Vadeo, Pastor of Naga Christian Fellowship Shillong, expressed a timely pastoral conviction: “Pastors need to work together. Positive things happen when they come together. They become the bridge for the disconnected congregation. There they are able to reinforce the primary teaching of Jesus Christ, ministry of reconciliation, peace, and compassion.” His words captured the heartbeat of the gathering, affirming that collaborative leadership strengthens the spiritual fabric of the community and fosters deeper belonging among believers.
Rev. Dr. Meyu Changkiri offered the Invocation, setting a solemn and unifying tone as he thanked God for the historic gathering of all Naga churches in Shillong and prayed for divine guidance, strengthened witness, and deeper unity as the community celebrates the coming of Christ.
The atmosphere was further enriched by a Christmas Carol led by the NCFS Worship Team, drawing worshippers from elders to young children into the familiar and comforting songs of the season. Warm greetings from Mr. Kupeusing Meru, Assistant Resident Commissioner of Nagaland House Shillong, highlighted the significance of community, fellowship, and belonging among Nagas living outside their homeland.
A series of Christmas Melodies presented by the NCFS Sunday School Ministry, Sumi Christian Fellowship Shillong, and Zeliangrong Christian Fellowship Shillong offered a gentle reminder that when faith is nurtured in the hearts of children and youth, the legacy of the Gospel continues with strength and beauty. A heartfelt prayer for the community was then offered by Rev. Ramayon Jajo, Pastor of Tangkhul Baptist Church Shillong, lifting before God the needs, hopes, and burdens of Naga families residing in the city.
Further musical offerings came from the Lotha Christian Fellowship Shillong and The Servants, a fellowship of Naga pastors serving in Shillong, whose songs carried both nostalgia and spiritual encouragement. Choral readings by pastors and leaders representing various Naga fellowships, including Poumai, Eastern Naga, Rengma, Angami, Rongmei, and Mao, beautifully symbolized the unity of tribes under the Lordship of Christ.
The service concluded with a Benediction by Dr. Keveseyi Vero, Chaplain of Chakhesang Christian Fellowship Shillong, reminding everyone that God’s peace accompanies His people long after the service ends. The Feast Prayer, offered by Mr. Asumo Shitiri, Advisor of Naga Christian Fellowship Shillong, ushered the congregation into a time of fellowship, joy, and shared meals, an essential expression of Christian community.
Through this gathering, the Naga Christian leaders of Shillong communicated a heartfelt truth: “We are more Nagas when we are away from home, and we must be more Christlike in this generation.” In a world often divided by different opinions, pressures, and uncertainties, they urged the community to embrace the timeless message of Advent. Christ brings love where there is division, peace where there is conflict, and joy where there is despair.
This first-ever combined Advent service stands as a testimony that unity is possible, hope is alive, and God is indeed with His people, guiding, strengthening, and calling them to be light-bearers wherever they may be.
