Our Correspondent
Pughoboto, Dec. 21 (EMN): All churches irrespective of denominations came together under a single banner to celebrate Mishilimi Christian Centenary (1921-2021) on the theme “Proclaim the liberation (Isaiah 61:1-4)” at old Mishilimi village ground on Tuesday.
Thousands of believers from neighboring villages turned up to attend the commemoration of 100 years of Christianity in Mishilimi village.
Speaking on the occasion, Y Vikheho Swu, MLA from 13 Pughoboto AC, reminded everyone to move ahead in life with innovative ideas and assist one another towards accomplishing their dreams with the celebration of 100 years of Christianity.
Main speakers of the celebration consisted of SABAK executive secretary Rev. Hotokhu P Zhimomi, NCRC executive secretary Rev. Vitoka Kinimi, and pastor of Chisholimi Baptist Church Rev. Henito Sheqi.
As a prelude to the centenary celebration of Christianity, it was informed that all the churches of Mishilimi village came together and organised a jubilee programme. It was also learned that a stone pulling traditional ceremony was also organised on April 27, 2019, while the stone was erected at the compound of Mishilimi Baptist Church, the first church in the village established in 1921.
It stated that Christianity came to the village when 'late Pilitha went to Kohima for labor work and came to know Jesus Christ through Khulhou Angami (Khonoma) and was baptised by evangelist Viliezu Rengma (Tseminyu village) on December 21, 1921.' It may be mentioned that the late Shikhuli Sheqi from the village was the first woman evangelist among the Sumi community.
Meanwhile, the jubilee souvenir was released by Rev. Akhato Sheqi Swu, Pastor of Prayer and Healing Centre, Ayinato.
Representing 100 years of its existence, the jubilee choir numbering 100 members presented songs in the services.
Ghoshito G Swu, pastor of Tokugha Baptist Church led the prayer in remembrance of the pioneers who departed; while Rev. Vitoshe Wotsa led the prayer for all the villagers and in-laws.
The organising committee members informed that Mishilimi village has 700 households with a population of more than 4000. The village is one of the biggest Sumi villages after Lazami village in Zunheboto district.