Morung Express News
Mokokchung | June 16
An intensive brainstorming session on the topics about the role of Ao churches with regard to the traditions and culture, and the future condition of the Aos which was organized by the Dimapur Area Ao Arogo Pastor Telongjem (Dimapur Area Ao Church Pastor Union) at the Kumlong Baptist Church here today.
The session, which was sponsored by the Mokokchung Town Baptist Churches’ Mission (MTBCM), was attended by pastors from different churches in Mokokchung town, the Ao Senden, the Watsu Mungdang, the Mokokchung Town Lanur Telongjem and village council members from the neighboring villages.
In the first session, the resource person, Dr Lulen Jamir, while speaking on the topic about the Ao churches with regard to the past and present Ao traditions and culture, gave an elaborate discourse touching on every aspect of the Ao community life. He touched on different aspects like tribal values, the rich cultural heritage, village administration, youths, language (mother tongue), church-culture-Bible, etc.
Dr Lulen left each topic open for discussion and only gave his personal suggestions while soliciting further discussion and opinion from the audience.
The second resource person, Rev L Kari Longchar, who spoke on the topic – Asung Aor jenjang (Tomorrow’s status of the Aos) – strongly lamented the present condition of the Ao people. He said that the Aos have forgotten the Lord and that state politics and election have created chaos in the society. However, he said that everything is not lost and therefore called upon the people to introspect and retrospect, turn back to the Lord, and seek God’s blessings. He also suggested some ways and means for developmental activities in different fields like culture and traditions, administration, development activities etc for a better future.
A question hour ensued and a healthy discussion was held where members of the audience expressed their own views and opinions.
The Editor of Tir Yimyim, K Temjen Jamir summarized the session.
