Chandel: The Pre-Centenary Celebration of Monsang Naga Baptist Churches Association (MNBCA) was held at the MNBCA mission centre Khoriibung village, Japhou Chandel under the theme “God’s Faithfulness” on Saturday.
Upa Rev. Th. Rockson, Monsang OT Translator and Upa Rev. Dr. Ng. Molarhring, President Monsang Theological Association (MTA) moderated the religious gathering.
Upa Ng. Roland, First President of MNBCA, Upa K. Damkichung, Choir Master JBC, Rev Boonson Tongsin, Finance Secretary ANBA, Mrs. Chungni Ruwndar, Choir Director, Voices of Tapestry Chandel attended the celebration as group song competition judges.
Also read | Women group demands early Assembly Session to scrap SoO with Kuki militant groups in Manipur
The pre centenary celebration kicks off with flag hoisting led by Upa Ng. Gilbert, Former President, MNBCA and invocation prayer by W. Molali, Pastor CBC.
Upa Kh. Mobershing, President MNBCA in his welcome speech thanked all the Monsang baptist churches, pastors, donors, well-wishers and all the Monsang community for the support and cooperation extended to MNBCA to make the celebration a grand success.
Sapa Sh. Dilbert, Women Secy MNBCA gave an introductory and history reading of the early formation of Christianity among the Monsang Naga society since 1924 at Liwachangning Monsang baptist village.
Also Read | Abnormal population growth of Chin-Kuki-Zo in Manipur since 1881
Upa Rev. Alani Shongsir, Executive Secretary, MNBCA delivered the centenary salutation to the gathering. According to him, “the pre-centenary celebration is a dress rehearsal for the spiritual awakening and 100 years of century faith” among the Monsang baptist churches to be commemorated early next year in February 2025. God’s faithfulness since the formative years of Christianity among the Monsang baptist churches need to be acknowledged with thanksgiving heart, forgiveness spirit and love for one another, he remarked in his concluding speech.
Also Read | Choosing to be Humble; episode in Motbung
Group song competition from ‘Thangnhang Mimpaana Lha’ and men’s choreography based on Monsang gospel songs, children choreography presentation and showcasing latest Monsang women kilts and designs were some of the main highlights of the celebration.
Many hundreds of Monsang populace in traditional attire including church leaders, village chiefs, tribe leaders, CSO leaders, women leaders, student community and well wishers attended the pre centenary celebration. Among them Upa Ng. Benithan, President SUR, Upa Kumar Khartu, Chairman Sirti Eruwng Ruh, Sapa K. Gedion, President STS are worth mentioning.
Also Read | Manipur Cabinet Approves Monthly Compensatory Allowance for Commandos; Assembly Session from Feb 28
In the group song competition, LiwaChangning was the winner while Japhou A and Japhou B were declared 2nd and 3rd position respectively. In the men’s choreography competition Liwachangning men’s fellowship emerged champion while Japhou men’s fellowship stood 2nd and the 3rd position was won by Sarei men’s fellowship.
The celebration ended with flag de-hoisting by Upa K. Hringam, former President, MNBCA followed by refreshment prayer led by G. Khartu, Pastor, LSBC.