Council of Nagalim Churches (CNC) commenced its two-day golden jubilee celebrations Wednesday at Council Head Quarters (CHQ), Hebron under the theme “Restoration – 1 Peter 5:10”, with Assemblies of God of East India general superintendent Rev Dr Moses Murry as speaker in the first session.
In his address, Murry recalled the formation of the CNC in 1974 when the Nagas were united and signifying that the jubilee was not just for CNC, but for all Nagas. He claimed that the CNC was formed with the vision to spread the gospel of Christ, urging the congregation to reflect on whether the vision had been fulfilled.
Reflecting on the struggles of the Nagas, Murry expressed sorrow over the bloodshed between them and the Indian Army, as well as the internal conflicts within. He expressed gratitude that the bloodshed had ceased, and wondered whether the sufferings were part of God’s plan.
He attributed the sufferings of Naga people to their disobedience to God’s word, adding that they had failed on many fronts because they were not walking spiritually with the gospel.
He cautioned that the Nagas might suffer even more in the future if they did not have hope, renew their minds, and revived their spiritual lives.
He remarked that the theme “Restoration” was very much relevant not only for the CNC, but the Nagas in general.
He also recalled how God had liberated Nagas from darkness through the gospel, allowing them to experience joy, peace, unity, and love. He however lamented that their pride, selfishness, and un-thankfulness to God had made them lose the spirit of love for hatred, joy for sorrows and problems, peace for war among themselves, etc, pointing out that these were some of their spiritual sickness.
Murry concluded his message by reminding the congregation of God’s promises, stressing that restoration could be realised if the Nagas repented and reposed their faith in Him.
Extending his golden jubilee greetings, GPRN yaruiwo Q Tuccu paid tribute to the CNC founders who dared to dream big and the sacrifices made by the pioneers to build a strong foundation.
He claimed that 50 years of unwavering faith and selfless service to the community stood as a testament of the council in serving Naga people.
He said the CNC had been the cornerstone of Naga national building, providing comfort, security and hope to the people, acknowledging and appreciating the council for being a beacon of hope and testament of God’s faithfulness.
GPRN deputy ato kilonser VS Atem read out the message of ato kilonser Th Muivah, who conveyed gratitude and appreciation to the CNC, founded 50 years ago with the divine mission to uphold “Nagalim for Christ” by visionary leaders, including late chairman Isak Chishi Swu.
Terming the CNC as “defender of our faith in Christ,” Muivah said the council had always been there to spiritually guide the NSCN, adding that the council was also responsible for making the NSCN strong till the present day despite the storms blowing from all directions to crush the group.
Muivah contended that the NSCN had come thus far by faith in God and the love of Naga people, adding that the golden jubilee celebration was a living proof that God loved the organisation and Nagas.
Earlier, opening prayer was offered by CHQ Church pastor Dijinbou Newmai, while the flag was unfurled by Tuccu, candle light procession taken out by 50 selected members of the NSCN collective leadership, and thanksgiving and prayers of blessings by Rev Dr Avi Sophie.
Welcome address was delivered golden jubilee committee by convener and NSCN steering committee executive member Ikato Chishi Swu, while souvenir and memento were released by former CNC president and collective leadership member Eustar Chishi Swu, and closing prayer offered by mission board chairman, DBCA, Rev Simon Kemprai.