Christians in Kohima on Sunday congregated for a special “Easter Sunrise Service” at the historic World War-II cemetery, Kohima cemetery celebrated under the theme, “the empty tomb (Matt. 28:1-8).
The programme was organized by Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship. The day signifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ after His crucifixion and death, more than 2,000 years ago. Chief minister, T.R. Zeliang, while extending Easter greetings said of all the “Christian festivals, Easter Sunday is considered as unique and worthy as it signifies the resurrection of Jesus Christ”. He said while other religions also celebrate the birthdays of their founders, leaders and other events related to their religions, they have no festival to mark the resurrection in the history except Jesus Christ.
He said the celebration marked not only the victory of Jesus Christ over death, but also the victory of all Christian. He also quoted a verse of apostle’s Paul that if there was no resurrection “our faith would be in vain”. Zeliang further said that everyone fear death including Kings, emperors, church leaders, however, for Christian, the fear was annulled through the victory over death demonstrated by Jesus Christ, who believes in Him.
Delivering message, executive director ABCC Rev. Dr. Atsi Dolie said if Jesus had not risen, then the preaching of Jesus Christ would be ridiculous and meaningless. He said there might be false propagation about resurrection of Christ but the surest way to prove that. He therefore, challenged the believers to feel the effect of Christ’s resurrection in their daily lives. Dr. Atsi also urged the Christian brethren to demonstrate the power of Jesus Christ resurrection in their personal life be leading an exemplary life so that could see Jesus through them.
The service was led by vice president KBPF pastor Moba Konyak while pastor Sankara Narayan read the scripture and said prayer. Special songs were presented Rengma Baptist Church, Chakhesang Baptist church Kohima Kitsubozou, mass spoken prayer was led by state chaplain Rev. Kauzirang Thou, the hymnal songs and music was led Sumi Baptist Church Daklane.