Christian Forum Dimapur celebrated its 25th anniversary jubilee at Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church on September 28.
Dimapur, September 28 (MExN): The Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) celebrated its 25th anniversary jubilee with theme ‘witnessing God's faithfulness,’ at Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church on September 28.
The celebration was attended by around 300 representatives from different churches included clergy, pastors, believers, and community representatives.
The CFD desk in a press release stated that the invocation was led by Rev RP Murry with welcome address by Rev S Vitoshe Swu, Senior Pastor, Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church. The jubilee choir from Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church performed the hymn “Great is Thy Faithfulness.”
In his address, Rev Moses Murry, Chairman, CFD, walked the audience through the history of the Forum. He recalled it’s founding on January 27, 1999, in response to the tragic killing of Australian missionary Graham Staines and his two sons. Rev L Bizo, the then Chairperson of the Baptist Pastors' Fellowship, was instrumental in organizing the Christian community to respond with protest and prayer. Rev Murry reflected on the Forum’s role in advocating for justice and peace over the years, particularly through efforts such as pushing for the enforcement of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act and providing aid during the Manipur conflict.
Rev Dr Zelhou Keyho, General Secretary, Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) was the main speaker for the occasion. Dr Keyho, who was also one of the speakers at the Forum's inception, delivered a message on the day’s theme.He emphasised CFD’s role in addressing various social and spiritual issues concerning the marginalized and voiceless in society. Dr Keyho urged the Christian community to remain united in Christ and to avoid divisions in the name of religion, warning that grace cannot be received if Christians fight in the name of Christ.
Prayers for different intentions were led by leaders. Rev Dr Alem Sangtam offered a prayer for the people of Nagaland. Rev Dr N Paphino prayed for the renewal and revival of Nagaland. Rev Dr N Tzüdir lifted up prayers for those in conflict. Rev Fr C Chacko led a special prayer for the younger generation and Rev Dr Keni prayed for the host church.
Choreography was presented by members of Bethesda A.G. Church and the vote of thanks was pronounced by Rev Dr CP Anto, Secretary, CFD.
