KOHIMA: In keeping with the celebration of 150 years of Christianity among the Naga people, the churches in Nagaland have decided to work towards better unity and understanding and to find a just and honourable solution to Naga political issues. This resolution was adopted during the closing worship service of a two-day sesquicentennial ceremony at the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC).
The event organised by the NBCC at its convention centre started on Saturday and the theme was 'His Story'. Delegates from 20 associations and four associate members of the tribal churches participated in the programme. Representatives of Assam Baptist Convention, Manipur Baptist Convention, Arunachal Baptist convention , North east India Christian Council, Council of Baptist Churches in North East India, Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, Baptist World Alliance, India Mission Coordination Committee , Assemblies of God and Christian Revival Churches were present during the celebration.
The church witnessed the adoption of 10-point resolution which resolved to work for greater unity and better understanding among various groups of Naga people, by ending selfish intentions and conflicts that destroys the culture of the Nagas, it was said. The resolution also ensured oneness and the collective search for a just, non-violent and honourable political solution. There were other resolutions as well that was read out by the Convenor of the sesquicentennial celebration resolution committee, Rev Rumatho Nyusou.
The congregation accepted the resolutions by raising their hands. Along with this, the church also discussed about the global warming and changing climate, and resolved to work on it.
The Church in states like Nagaland, Manipur and Meghalaya are playing a crucial role in bringing about peace in the political scenario of the NE states. The Churches are now actively involved in the social and political life of these areas, though various quarters demands the restrictions of Churches in involvement with these aspects in the society.
The role of the Church as a peace broker in Nagaland has been well documented in the past. One Church leader stated that, the Church sometimes is held responsible for not being able to stop the wrongs in the society. With such contradictory expectations it gets difficult for the the Church to decide what to do and what not to. But now the Church is Northeast have decided to take part actively during urgent crisis of the region
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