Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): Condolences continued to pour in from various quarters, following the demise of Margaret Anne Shishak, co-founder of the Patkai Christian College (Autonomous), who passed away on May 27.
Nagaland Advisor for Power Tovihoto Ayemi on Sunday stated in a condolence message that late Margaret was “a gentle and soft-spoken godly woman who throughout her distinguished life dedicated herself for Naga society in the field of education and music.”
“Generations of Naga people bear witness to the extraordinary contribution of Margaret Anne Shishak in moulding lives of thousands of Naga people who now serve the in different capacities,” stated Ayemi who is also an alumni of PCC. Stating that he would remain grateful for how Margaret, with her graceful nature, always inspired him and others Patkaians to be better people, Ayemi added: “Her contribution towards the progress of Naga people shall always remain in the annals of the history of the Naga people.”
“I, along with my family members convey deep condolence to the bereaved family. May the departed soul rest in perfect peace,” the message read.
GNF: In another statement, the Global Naga Forum stated that Margaret Shishak lived an extraordinary life of sacrifice and full of grace. “With her gift of music laden with a deep sense of mission, she dedicated her entire life to the Naga young people’s music education, especially Church Music, for the glory of God,” it stated, adding that “She was never on the payroll of the college, yet never retired from teaching. Her missionary zeal kept her going and she continued to teach as long as her health permitted.”
The Forum stated that Margaret Shishak’s life and work for the Naga people would never be forgotten and Naga churches in particular would continue to enjoy the fruits of her labour for ages to come.
“As we mourn the loss of her life, the Global Naga Forum (GNF) also takes this occasion to celebrate her life and expresses our gratitude to her family. We thank the Almighty God for the gift of her life to the Naga people,” it said, while conveying condolences on behalf of the Nagas around the globe.
ABCC: Expressing sadness, Executive Director of the Angami Baptist Church Council V Atsi Dolie stated that Margaret Shishak’s contribution to the Nagas in the field of music is unparalleled. “A very focused, determined, and hard-working lady, Madam Margaret had impacted the lives of so many people, both music lovers and others,” the condolence message read.
Dolie also recalled his personal association with Shishak in music related ministries while in PCC and said, “…she was the ‘silent’ strength behind what Patkai has risen to today,” while conveying condolences on behalf of the ABCC, which he said was “the most benefitted council/association from her ministry.”
