Nagaland Baptist Church Council observes Persons with Disabilities Sunday

Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), in collaboration with Tabitha Enabling Academy, Deaf Prayer Fellowship Kohima, Blessed Bonding, and Indian Red Cross Society (IRCS) Nagaland, observed Persons with Disabilities Sunday at NBCC Platinum Hall, Bayavü Hill, Kohima, on November 16. The programme was held under the theme “Strength in Weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9–10), affirming the spiritual value, dignity, and inclusion of persons with disabilities.
Delivering the message, NBCC Social Concern secretary, Dr. Villo Naleo, drew from the biblical account of Mephibosheth (2 Samuel 9:1–13), a young boy who became crippled while fleeing conflict. Despite his physical limitations, Mephibosheth was shown kindness by King David, who restored his family’s inheritance and granted him a permanent seat at the royal table. Dr. Naleo emphasized that the story illustrates the importance of mercy, support systems, and societal responsibility to build inclusive networks of care.
He stated that disability is not a personal choice but part of the shared human condition, and that dependency should not be viewed as weakness. Persons with disabilities, he said, often become sources of empathy, prayer, and love within communities and must be valued accordingly. Dr. Naleo also reflected on the role of families, noting that children with disabilities should be encouraged to learn and grow independently. He cautioned against overprotection and urged parents to expose children to diverse environments to foster resilience.
Sharing his personal testimony, Aye, with the help of a sign language interpreter, recounted his journey of overcoming challenges. He spoke of learning sign language, battling insecurity, and eventually passing Class 10—an achievement he described as significant. Aye thanked his family, teachers, and friends for their unwavering support and shared Romans 8:18 as a verse that helped him persevere.
During a video presentation, NBCC general secretary, Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, reaffirmed that every individual is created in God’s image with unique value and purpose. He called on the Church to be an inclusive community that practices compassion, respect, and belonging.
Special Educator Leneiseno Sale of Jo Foundation Inclusive School shared that her work is driven by a calling to support children with special needs. She emphasized the importance of focusing on strengths and motivating students.
Parent and teacher Lily Meyase highlighted the emotional and financial challenges faced by families of children with disabilities. She stressed the need for quality time and involvement in daily activities to better understand their needs.
Administrator of Tabitha Enabling Academy, Asanuo S. Thong, stated that the Academy aims to empower persons with disabilities to live independently and fulfill God’s purpose. She affirmed that their worth remains constant regardless of societal perceptions.
Principal Vekutilu Vese Ngone described persons with disabilities as having “pure hearts” and noted that they remain one of the least evangelized groups. She urged churches to support affected families and empower individuals to contribute actively.
Headmistress Dovine Venuh expressed admiration for the resilience of children with disabilities and emphasized the need for personalized support and collaboration with families. City Church Pastor, Rev. Kedo Peseyie, called on churches to proactively create safe spaces and resources such as visual aids and sign language support. Associate Pastor Hekali Shikhu added that even small signs of progress are meaningful and stressed the importance of acceptance and adequate training.
The programme was led by A. Bideno Kikon, secretary, Christian Education Department, NBCC, with Shikalu Shohe as accompanist and Eliza Chishi as sign language interpreter. Special presentations included “Heavenly Father” and “The Good Samaritan” by Tabitha Enabling Academy, “You Say” by Deaf Prayer Fellowship, and a song by SCF Bayavü.
Greetings were delivered by Dr. R. Rose Chakhesang, vice chairman, IRCS Nagaland, while Scripture reading was presented by Nyano. Rev. Izieteilung Terieng, State Chaplain, NLA, led the special prayer.
The event concluded with renewed calls for stronger community support systems and greater compassion toward persons with disabilities.