RIO LAUDS REV. CUNVILLE; CALLS FOR PEACE & UNITY AMONG NAGAS
Over twenty thousand people from various denominations and communities, attended “Nagaland United: A Gathering of Faith, Hope and Revival,” organized by Kohima Baptist Pastors Fellowship (KBPF) with NBCC and NJCF at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima, November 30.
Nagaland chief minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio in his address, described the historic gathering themed “Nagaland United: A Gathering of Faith, Hope and Revival” as a privilege and blessing. Addressing the event, he emphasized the unity of diverse tribes, denominations, and communities bound together by shared faith, hope, and the desire for spiritual renewal.
Dr. Rio said the fellowship reflected values of love and peace that transcend differences. He also expressed disappointment over the absence of Rev. Franklin Graham, noting that his travel documentation and clearance could not be secured in time, a matter of deep concern for the organizers and participants.
He reiterated his opposition to the re-imposition of the Protected Area Permit (PAP) regime in the state and called for its permanent removal. He informed that the Government of India, through a circular dated December 17, 2024, reinstated PAP restrictions in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, citing security concerns.
Dr. Rio emphasized that while Manipur and Mizoram face complex situations, Nagaland remained peaceful and should be treated differently. Dr. Rio said he had raised the issue at the NEC Plenary Meeting in Agartala on December 20, 2024, and later during a Cabinet review on January 6, 2025.
The chief minister also said he has repeatedly written to the Centre urging for PAP’s withdrawal, noting that foreign dignitaries and delegations face hardships due to delays in permit approvals, affecting state-level engagements. While expressing gratitude for the temporary relaxation of PAP from December 1 to 10, 2025, during the Hornbill Festival, Rio stressed that it still does not resolve the larger issue. He vowed to continue pressing for the complete and permanent lifting of PAP in Nagaland.
Dr. Rio expressed deep gratitude as the state welcomed Rev. Robert Cunville of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, despite the absence of Rev. Franklin Graham whose travel clearance could not be secured in time. Rio said Rev. Cunville is no stranger to Nagaland and the Northeast, having faithfully carried the Gospel across India for decades, bringing hope, healing, and transformation to countless lives. His ministry, Rio noted, has strengthened churches, revived communities, and touched hearts with the love of Christ.
The chief ninister highlighted the special significance of Rev. Cunville’s presence, recalling his direct involvement in the historic 1972 Billy Graham Crusade at Khuochiezie Local Ground, Kohima.
Rio, who attended the crusade as a youth, described it as a defining spiritual milestone for Nagaland. “Many in our State still cherish the memory of that crusade. It sowed seeds of faith, awakening, and spiritual renewal that continue to bear fruit even today,” he said, adding that Rev. Cunville’s return deepens the collective sense of gratitude for God’s grace.
Dr. Rio also extended a warm welcome to all members of the BGEA team, hoping their stay in Kohima would be memorable. He requested them to convey the best wishes of the Naga people to Rev. Franklin Graham, while recalling the indelible mark left by his father, Rev. Billy Graham, during his visit to Kohima more than 50 years ago.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to the Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship (KBPF), the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), and the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF) for organizing the programme, describing it as a blessing for all. He emphasized that unity and peaceful coexistence must be valued beyond faith or ideology, as these virtues are essential for humanity’s survival and progress.
Rio noted that in a world increasingly marked by conflict, violence, and hatred, believers have a crucial responsibility to spread the message of peace, harmony, and oneness. Reflecting on Nagaland’s past, he recalled how head-hunting and warfare once defined Naga society, but education and the Gospel brought transformation. He acknowledged the American Baptist missionaries who arrived in the 1870s, whose dedication sowed seeds of faith and compassion that continue to shape the state’s spiritual and social fabric.
Calling for unity, Rio urged Nagas to strengthen brotherhood among themselves and with others. As Christmas approaches, he said it was the perfect time to rededicate to friendship, peace, and fellowship, wishing everyone a meaningful Christmas and joyful New Year.
The evening’s message was delivered by Rev. Robert Cunville, Associate Evangelist of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) who preached on the meaning of Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, describing it as “the greatest and most historic event in the world.”
Addressing a huge gathering, Rev. Cunville delivered a powerful sermon on the immense suffering endured by Christ and the hope offered through the cross. His gave a powerful message on the suffering of Jesus Christ, vividly describing the Roman practice of whipping prisoners before crucifixion. He explained that Jesus, as a Jew, was whipped 39 times, leaving an estimated 460 wounds, before soldiers placed a crown of thorns on His head, causing further bleeding. Cunville reminded the audience that while Jesus is often remembered for His beauty, Scripture records that during His suffering “there was no beauty that we should desire Him.”
Rev. Cunville explained that crucifixion was among the most brutal forms of execution, practiced for nearly 800 years and universally regarded as horrific. According to Scripture, he said, Jesus willingly accepted “the most horrible death any man can die” for the redemption of humanity.
Drawing on biblical accounts, he recalled the crowd’s choice to release Barabbas and crucify Jesus, calling it a drama that continues symbolically today. He urged believers to reflect on how their actions, words, and thoughts can “crucify Jesus” in the present, resulting in a loss of peace and joy. Concluding, he told attendees, “Invite God back into your life and you will find peace and joy.”
Addressing misconceptions, he stressed that Christianity is not a Western religion, noting Jesus was born in the Middle East as Savior of the world. He concluded that only through the cross lies forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation with God, declaring Christ’s sacrifice as the sole solution to humanity’s sins.
Rev. Cunville urged those facing hopelessness to find comfort in the cross, assuring that God offers hope and desires all to come to repentance. He reminded listeners of God’s unconditional love, emphasizing that even if one feels insignificant in the world’s eyes, they remain precious to God, who sees all. Concluding his message, he called for personal reflection and renewed faith, encouraging attendees to embrace repentance, forgiveness, and the transformative power of Jesus Christ for peace and spiritual renewal.
The programme featured an extensive praise and worship segment led by Bozio Nienu & Team. Amongbi Jamir, associate pastor (Music) KABA, led the congregational hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness”, while Rev. Phomlee Van, pastor Phom Baptist Church, Kohima, delivered the invocation. Bible passages were read by Khekavi K. Yeptho, pastor Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima (Old Testament), and Rev. Dr. K. Benry Lotha, senior pastor, Kohima Lotha Baptist Church (New Testament).
Special musical presentations included a performance of “Leave It There” by Terrence William Wanshong, and a combined choir of more than 700 members from KBPF delivered a special number. Rev. Vezopa Rhakho, pastor Chakhesang Baptist Church, Kohima interpreted the sermon for attendees.
Dr. Villo Naleo, secretary Social Concern NBCC, and Rev. Dr. Neikedozo Paphino, president NJCF, also greeted the congregation.
Rev. Dr. Ruokuovilie Sachü, president, KBPF, chaired the programme and acknowledged the efforts of the churches in organising the event.