Nagaland: NPF, BJP celebrate advent Christmas with messages of hope

Naga People’s Front (NPF) and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Nagaland celebrated Advent Christmas at their respective venues with messages centered on hope, unity, and the gift of Christ.
At the NPF Central Office, the celebration was held under the theme, “Glory to God in the highest.” Sharing God’s message, Rev. Thsadongse Sangtam, pastor of Sangtam Baptist Lithro Kohima, reminded the gathering that Christmas should not merely be a celebration but a time to spread the gospel like a good shepherd. He urged Christians to draw closer to God and work for Him, adding that without true worship, Christmas would be meaningless.
Delivering greetings, NPF secretary general Achumbemo Kikon described Christmas as a season of hope. He appealed to Nagas to bury differences and strengthen unity, recalling that Jesus Christ was born at a time of despair to bring hope to the world. Referring to global conflicts in Gaza, the West Bank, and Ukraine, Kikon said Christmas brings hope to all—whether for peace, healing, or unity. He stressed that unity remained the greatest aspiration of the Nagas and called it “one of the best Christmas gifts we can give to our people.”
The programme began with the hymn “Joy to the World” followed by scripture reading and prayer by Hetoli Achumi, vice president of the Central Women’s Wing. It was chaired by Merentoshi R. Jamir, vice president, with special songs presented by the Central Youth Wing and offerings collected for orphanages.
Meanwhile, BJP Nagaland celebrated Advent Christmas at Mokokchung Town Hall under the theme “Light the World.” The programme was attended by party leaders led by state BJP president Benjamin Yepthomi and workers. Rev. Dr. Bendang Lkr, pastor of Artang Baptist Church, delivered the Christmas message, describing Jesus Christ as God’s perfect and indescribable gift to mankind. He emphasized that the gift was freely given, limitless, unchanging, and yet to be embraced by many souls, urging believers to recommit their lives to Christ.
Earlier, O. Tinu Lkr, president of BJP Mokokchung district, delivered the welcome address, while greetings were shared by state president Benjamin Yepthomi. Messages from deputy chief minister Y. Patton and minister Temjen Imna Along were also read out. A special song was presented by Ongmeshang Choir Mokokchung, and the programme concluded with a Christmas feast.