Over 500 youths embrace oneness at 4th Inter-Tribal Youth Fellowship in Mokokchung
More than 500 youths from at least 13 Baptist churches in Mokokchung town, representing over 9 different Naga communities as well as the Gorkha community, gathered at Yimyu Baptist Church for the 4th Inter-Tribal Youth Fellowship on Sunday evening, 20 August. The event carried the theme “Embracing Oneness” based on Ephesians 4:1-6.
The objective of the event was twofold: to showcase talent and to foster a sense of unity among the various communities residing in Mokokchung town.
Toshi Sanglir, Youth Secretary of ABAM, delivered the word of God to the congregation. In his sermon, Sanglir highlighted the recent incidents in Manipur where Christian identity has been intertwined with various groups, yet marred by fear and conflict. He posed a challenge to the audience, urging them to introspect on their own Christian identity, values, and actions based on God’s word from the Bible.
Concerned that such patterns of destruction could potentially impact Nagaland’s Christian identity, Sanglir called upon the attendees to move beyond self-centeredness and tribal divides. He emphasized the dangers of prioritizing tribal identity at the cost of a larger Christian identity, which could result in a destructive cycle. By reflecting on Nagas’ history just 150 years ago, when conflicts raged among themselves, Sanglir shed light on the dangers of self-centeredness and its correlation with conflicts and selfishness. He underscored the vital importance of unity and embracing oneness, echoing the teachings of Christ.
Dr Neizo Puro, Assistant Professor at NU Lumami, delivered an exhortation, encouraging the assembly to embrace and celebrate the diversity found in Christ. He called on them to develop a Christian or biblical worldview and highlighted the significance of humility before God and casting anxieties upon Him. Puro stressed the transformative power of seeking God and making decisions that positively shape individual lives and society.
Pastor Puryapang of Yimyu Baptist Church led the invocation. Scriptures were read by Konio from Khiamnuingan BCYM. Special presentations were given by Phom BCYM and Sumi ‘A’ BCYM in the first session.
The second session was marked by a multitude of performances from various churches, including Folk Fusion by Tzüsapang BCYM, Quartet by Tenyimia Church YM, Play by Police BCYM Mokokchung, Musical Piece by Kumlong BCYM, Drama by Alempang BCYM, Dance by Chang BCYM, Group Song by Lotha BCYM, Transformative Merriment by Mokokchung Compound BCYM, Gospel Cultural Dance by Gorkha BCYM, and Dance by Marepkong BCYM.
Hosted by Yimyu Baptist Church Youth Ministry, this event marked the 4th ‘Inter-Tribal Youth Fellowship’. The previous three fellowships, held in 2018, 2019, and 2022, were exclusively hosted by Sungkomen Baptist Church Youth Ministry.