Nagaland: Legislators’ Advent service calls for renewal and reconciliation

An Advent Christmas devotional service organised by Nagaland Legislators Christian Fellowship (NLCF) in collaboration with Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) was held on Sunday under the theme “Born of God…” (John 1:9–13), where speakers underscored the need for unity, spiritual renewal and collective responsibility in the State.
Addressing the gathering, deputy chief minister T.R. Zeliang said he counted it a blessing to share Christmas greetings and reflected on the season as a reminder of the “extraordinary strength found in unity”. He noted that Christmas brought families and communities together, softening differences and drawing people to a shared light of hope, just as seen in the nativity story.
Calling for decisive steps towards unity among Nagas, Zeliang observed that the State continued to grapple with multiple divisions—between groups, organisations and factions—which had become one of the greatest obstacles to progress. Without divine intervention, he cautioned, the State risked a situation where “lawlessness and the rule of the gun” could overshadow the future.
The deputy CM lauded NJCF for leading by example in fostering Christian unity and urged the forum to extend its influence beyond the Church to inspire reconciliation at all levels. He reminded that unity did not mean uniformity, adding that the diversity of tribes and cultures should deepen mutual appreciation rather than division.
Referring to the theme, he said Jesus entered a world of confusion and division and brought identity and hope to all who believed. Citing the recent Healing and Revival Festival in Dimapur where over one lakh people gathered, he said the overwhelming response reflected the people’s longing for God’s mercy. He encouraged the congregation to welcome Christ with pure hearts and let “forgiveness be their gift” during the season.
In closing, Zeliang expressed hope that the spirit of Christmas would guide the people towards cooperation, peace and shared progress.
Speaking earlier, NJCF secretary Rev. Moses Murry expressed gratitude to God and the state leadership for the opportunity to hold the devotional service alongside the Hornbill Festival celebrations. He described the recent revival in Dimapur as a powerful testimony, noting that many experienced spiritual and physical healing.
Murry emphasised that Christmas represented the greatest gift to humanity—God descending to earth as Jesus Christ to bring people out of darkness into light. Quoting from John 8:12 and John 3:16, he said Christ came to restore the broken relationship between God and mankind. He also shared a personal testimony of his mother’s miraculous healing, which he attributed to the power of prayer.
He called on believers to celebrate Christmas with true meaning, prayerfully remembering God’s promises and allowing the message of Christ’s birth to renew lives.
The service was led by state chaplain Rev. Izieteilung Tering. Musical offerings were presented by pianist Arolu Phesao, cantor Akhrou Veswuh, Bethesda Higher Secondary School and local soloists, while Khontele Seb offered a special prayer for the Naga people. Scripture reading was delivered by Those Kraho, president of the Bible Society of India, Kohima Branch.
The service concluded with hymns and benediction by Pastor Sunep Jamir of Nagaland Pentecostal Mission. Attendees were encouraged to embrace the season’s message of hope, peace and togetherness.