In a display of solidarity and compassion, the Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM) organized a candlelight vigil and prayer service for the people of Manipur. The event took place at Mokokchung town square on Sunday evening, drawing together a large gathering of concerned individuals from various backgrounds.
The candlelight vigil was dedicated to the people of Manipur who have been enduring an unprecedented period of terror, hunger, and loss of lives. The ABAM Executive Secretary, Rev Dr Mar Pongener, addressed the assembled crowd and expressed that although physically joining the Manipuris was not possible, their prayers were sent as a symbol of support during their time of agony.
In his message to the people of Manipur, Pongener said, “We, your brothers and sisters, assembled here to tell you that we are very much with you, and that our support and our prayers are with you.”
Assuring that there is power in prayer, he said, “Our God is alive, he is sovereign. No matter what, God is there to comfort us.”
“Our God in due course of time will see that you have peace in your land, which is our prayer,” he declared.
Among those in attendance were leaders of frontal civil society organizations including the Ao Senden, Watsü Mungdang, Ao Kakatshir Mungdang, All Ward Union Mokokchung Town, Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem as well as other tribal unions, associations, and citizens from all walks of life.
Due to logistical constraints, it was impractical to invite all churches to participate in the program. However, the ABAM Executive Secretary assured that the candlelight vigil was held simultaneously in all 127 Ao Baptist churches and 13 fellowships under the ABAM.
During the gathering, attendees were shown on the giant screen glimpses of the distressing situation in Manipur, serving as a reminder of the challenges faced by the people. Prayers were pronounced, invoking hope, peace, and solace for the suffering individuals and their families. The event concluded with the collective voices of the assembled crowd singing the timeless anthem, “We Shall Overcome.”
The candlelight vigil witnessed an overwhelming response, with hundreds of men, women and children coming together to express their empathy and solidarity for the people of Manipur.
It served as a poignant reminder that, even in the face of adversity, communities can come together to offer support and compassion to those in need.