ENPUM, ENCFM observe Advent Christmas
Morung Express News
Mokokchung | December 4
The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Union Mokokchung (ENPUM), in collaboration with Eastern Nagaland Churches Fellowship Mokokchung (ENCFM) observed Advent Christmas under the theme “Gift of Love” at Town Hall, Mokokchung on December 3.
This year’s event, the third edition, was also held previously in 2014 and 2017. The program aimed not only to provide a platform for worship and celebration but also to serve as a gathering for residents of Mokokchung hailing from Eastern Nagaland.
Y Nuklu Phom, Team Leader of LEMSACHENLOK, Longleng, served as the keynote speaker. Addressing the gathering, Phom reflected on how the perception of Christmas has evolved among the Nagas. He pointed out that the concept of Christmas has shifted, sidelining Christ, the true meaning of the season. “We have now sidetracked the cradle of Christmas,” he stated, emphasising that the essence of the season is often overshadowed by materialism.
Phom stressed, “Today, the Nagas are seeking alternative meanings of the word ‘Gift,’ but the only true gift of Christmas is salvation, which can only be received by believing in God.” He urged the audience to focus on five key takeaways: “Accept Jesus, Believe in Jesus, Confess with Conviction, Devote their lives, and Embrace Him.”
Dr Nungshi Tzudir, Associate Professor at Clark Theological College, Aolichen, in his exhortation, emphasized the importance of embracing humility during Advent. He observed that “it is the little and humble things that make Christmas more meaningful,” drawing a parallel to God’s gift of His Son to fill the void in humanity.
Rev Sentimeren Jamir, Associate Pastor of MTBA, exhorted the gathering on four key points. He emphasized the importance of teaching and learning to live in love and called for doing away with divisive ‘-isms’ in the name of Christmas. He expressed deep respect and admiration for the Easterners, highlighting their hardworking nature, unwavering determination, and resilience in enduring severe hardships. Finally, he urged everyone to unite in the fight against social evils such as alcohol, drugs, and immorality.
Pomei Jorlim, Assistant Professor at MCTE, delivered a motivational talk encouraging gratitude and hope.
The event also featured various presentations by the Konyak Youth Ministry, Chang Youth Ministry, Yimkhiung Baptist Church, and Sangtam Youth Ministry, with praise and worship led by the Khiamniungan Youth Ministry.
Concern over Nagaland government’s priorities
Earlier, in his welcome address, ENPUM President, Y Among Yim expressed concern over the Nagaland government’s priorities.
He noted that although ENPUM was established in 1972 and has been serving the community for over 50 years, the organization still lacks a guest house in the district. He criticized the government for neglecting essential needs while focusing on events like the Hornbill Festival. “The government is putting all its strength into hosting international guests, but the people of the state are not receiving their basic needs,” Yim remarked.
Yim highlighted that thousands of families from the Eastern Naga community reside across Mokokchung, not including students and workers seeking employment. “Mokokchung feels like a second home to us, like staying in our father’s house,” he said. He also emphasised the importance of fostering forgiveness and unity among various communities for a harmonious future.
