What began as a group of young musicians leading praise songs at church gatherings in Shillong has now grown into FLARE, a Christian worship band officially established in 2024. Though the band is new, several members were once part of The GANG (God’s Annointed New Generation), a group launched in 2016. Today, FLARE brings together seven young musicians from different tribes, united by one purpose—to glorify God through music.
In a conversation with Ukhrul Times correspondent, Ngalem Kashung Shimray; lead vocalist John Tongsin explained that the band’s name reflects its calling and identity. “The name FLARE comes from our desire to spread the Word of God like a flame. We want the fire that God has placed in our hearts to spread to everyone who listens to our music,” he said.
He further explained that the name carries a deeper spiritual meaning. “A flare represents light and fire that shines in the darkness. It symbolises zeal for the Lord, awakening, a signal that draws attention, and a spark that ignites something greater for God. That’s why we added ‘Worship’ to FLARE. We want our worship to shine through God’s light, ignite hearts for Him, express a genuine passion for Christ, point people to Jesus, and carry the fire of God’s presence.”
For the members, worship extends far beyond church walls. “We want people to know that worship is not limited to a place. You can worship God anywhere, and through our music we simply want to point people to Him,” John added, noting that music has the power to shape “the mind, body and soul.”
The band comprises John Tongsin and Vitolu Achumi as vocalists, Pürnüksung Lemtur and Imsuakün Kichu on guitars, Mhechiete Letro on bass, Alopu Zhimomi on drums, and Johnson Haokip on keyboard. While every member is affiliated with the Naga Christian Fellowship (NCF), Shillong, they clarified that “FLARE is an independent ministry and is not officially a part of NCF.” They also emphasised that the group remains open to new members who share the same vision.
Like many independent ministries, FLARE has encountered challenges, from financial constraints to occasional differences of opinion within the team. Yet, the members see every obstacle as an opportunity to deepen their faith. “Every challenge is a test of our faith,” Tongsin remarked. “Instead of allowing difficulties to pull us apart, we choose to listen to God’s Word and remind ourselves why FLARE was started in the first place,” he added.
Looking ahead, the band hopes to expand its ministry beyond music by organising Bible teachings, fellowship gatherings and preaching sessions. “Our goal has never been about numbers. What matters is who is involved and how committed they are to growing in Christ,” Tongsin said.
FLARE recently released its debut original song, You Are Good, now streaming across major digital platforms, with an official music video expected in the coming weeks.
As the interview drew to a close, the members left a simple message: “What people see on stage is not an act. It is simply an expression of our genuine love and passion for Christ.” For FLARE, success is measured not by applause or popularity, but by lives drawn closer to Christ—one song, one heart and one flame at a time.
