Dimapur, Dec. 22 (EMN): Christian Forum Dimapur (CFD) has organised an inter-faith and ecumenical Pre-Christmas celebration at Bethesda Celebration Centre on December 20.
CFD chairman, Rev. Mosses Murry, delivered the welcome address, while its secretary, Dr. Fr. CP Anto, highlighted the purpose of the gathering and quoted Pope Francis who had stressed on the need to have peace, unity and collaborative works among all religions and denominations for a sustainable development and peace in the world as it is getting divided on the basis of various issues and realms.
As he stressed on the taglines of the synodal journey with different religions and denominations and celebrating pre-Christmas, Fr. Anto emphasised on the need to promote dialogue, listening without prejudice, and working collaboratively for the betterment of the universe.
Ahidur Rehman, representing the Muslim community, advocated living in peace and harmony with each other and expressed happiness to note that there was no religious conflicts in Nagaland.
OM Praksh Sethi, representing the Jain community, expressed happiness to be part of the celebration and looked forward to a similar programme in the days to come. He also spoke on the importance of peace and harmony in the state and the region.
YP Gupta, representing the Hindu community, lauded the initiative of the Christian Forum in bringing together all the religions under one platform to celebrate pre-Christmas.
Representing the Buddhist community, Bijayatha Barua stated that Christ is the source of joy, hope and peace in the midst of a troubled world. She also stressed on the uniqueness of Buddhism as the most peaceful religion in the world.
Speaking on the occasion, Rev. Dr. N Paphino spoke about the real essence of Christmas: redemption, inclusivity of God’s love and reconciliation. He exhorted that the coming of Christ was to reconcile both between God and human beings and amongst humanity itself.
“In our world today torn apart by differences, hatred and prejudices, we need this kind of reconciliation where humanity can come together in love for a holistic and meaningful life. Amidst our different affirmations, we need humility for reconciling with each other,” Paphino stated.
“Today our society is facing so many challenges- pandemic, brokenness, killings, violence, hatred, extortion has stained our lives. Let the reconciliation of God prevail amongst our people in our land,” he added.
The celebration began with an invocation said by CFD vice chairman Rev. Vitoshe Swu, while the youth of Bethesda Assembly of God performed the carol singing and CFD joint secretary, Rev. Vangpong Phom, said the benediction.