Senapati, Dec 6: The Naga People’s Front, Manipur State Unit celebrated Advent Christmas on Friday at General Thangal Ecological Park, Mayangkhang. Several prominent figures of the party including the current and former MLAs, former ADC members, and unit workers and supporters attended the event.
In his welcome address, Solomon Veino, Advisor to the NPF Manipur State Unit, wished that the party receive blessings in celebrating the Advent Christmas. He stated that the festive season is a time to pray and rededicate oneself to God. He urged everyone to forgive one another to have peace during the Christmas season.
Must read | Tribal Students Protest Over Delayed Scholarships Disbursal in Manipur; Broader Grievances in Focus
Extending his greetings, the 43-Phungyar AC MLA Leishiyo Keishing expressed his joy in being part of the party and highlighted that every program organized by the party begins and ends with a prayer. Comparing the party’s importance in the state to the value of salt, he thanked all the political thinkers, social leaders, and senior party leaders for bringing the party to the state. In conclusion, the MLA extended warm wishes for a joyful Christmas celebration.
During the event, Water Resources Minister and Party President Awangbow Newmai announced that the party celebrates Advent Christmas annually. Talking about peace, the Minister stated that the Nagas of today are a peace-loving people unlike the days of yore, and added that where there is no love, something must have gone wrong that needs a remedy.
Moreover, the Party President stressing the need for unity cautioned that disunity will not only bring destruction to oneself but to the entire Naga community. He further lauded the forefathers for what they had done for the present generation and urged everyone to do the same for the next.
Must read | MoU signed to boost turmeric production
The event featured a sermon titled “Celebrating Christmas with Peace of Mind,” delivered by Rev. Phungmi Mawon, the Pastor of Mayangkhang Baptist Church. Dwelling on the meaning of Advent Christmas, the Pastor stated that the word ‘advent’ means ‘preparation for Christmas’ and compared it to the vibrant decorations on the gates along the National Highway.
While recognizing the prevailing wars and the dire need for peace, he prayed that Christmas brings peace to everyone and added that genuine peace is found only where God is present.
Also read |RPP Condemns Deportation of Pastor John Roughton; Calls for Govt Action
In addition, musical bands including the GMP from Tamenglong and the Lost&Found, Senapati, performed at the event. The United Naga Council and the All Naga Students Association, Manipur also extended greetings to the event.