Members of SPKKL along with others after the dedication
programme of Parashen Prayer House on Sunday.
DIMAPUR — A joint
land management committee by the name of Sendenyu Phenshünyu Kazü Keshwi Logwa
(SPKKL) on Sunday dedicated the newly constructed Parashen Prayer House at
Parashen in Tseminyu district, a historical site of profound significance in
Naga political history, where the first Naga flag was hoisted in 1956.
An update from the committee stated that the prayer house
stands as a symbol of peace, reconciliation and shared heritage, marking a
pivotal chapter in the relationship between the Sendenyu and Phenshünyu
villages.
Once divided by protracted conflict over the disputed land
of Parashen, it stated that the two communities embarked on a journey of
restoration, culminating in the signing of a peace agreement in 2008. The
agreement laid the foundation for the establishment of the SPKKL, a joint land
management committee entrusted with fostering harmony and cooperation in the
region.
Guided by prayers and a collective vision, it stated that
SPKKL resolved to build the Parashen Prayer House at the site of the peace
monolith. It added that the project was realised through the unwavering support
and contributions of the community, including free-will contribution in cash
and kinds from members of both villages, donations from eight churches and
fellowships, soft loan extended by selected members and sale proceeds.
The dedication ceremony was led by Tenyenilo Thong, pastor
of Sendenyu Baptist Church, and Rev. Isac Kesen, pastor of Phenshünyu Baptist
Church.
The service featured a compelling message delivered by Dr.
Joshua Lorin, principal of Oriental Theological Seminary. In his speech, Dr.
Lorin emphasised the historical and spiritual significance of Parashen stating
that “Sendenyu and Phenshünyu have been called to embrace the gospel during the
beginning of Christianity in our tribe and also have a place to establish the
foundation of the Naga political struggle.”
He called upon the gathering to view the prayer house not
just as a physical structure but as a sacred space for fostering unity.
“This prayer house will be a place of peace, but it should
be a house of unity not only for the two communities but for the Nagas at
large,” Dr. Lorin said.
He also highlighted the enduring legacy of peace, saying,
“Peace, like war, is waged. Our elders and leaders waged peace in the past, and
so we are here today.”
Concluding his address, he underscored the blessings of
peacemaking saying, “Peacemakers will inherit the earth, they will receive
mercy and they will see God.”
Speaking on the occasion, Njilo Kemp, chairman of SPKKL,
presented a detailed construction report, highlighting the collaborative
efforts that brought the prayer house to fruition.
The event also featured a song by The Charity group from
Sendenyu and prayers for the continued peace and prosperity of both
communities.
It mentioned that the Parashen Prayer House not only would
serves as a sanctuary for worship but also as a beacon of hope and
reconciliation for the wider community. It underscored the transformative power
of faith, dialogue and collective action in overcoming historical divides.
It further stated that SPKKL would remain committed to
stewarding the legacy of Parashen, ensuring it remains a symbol of peace, unity
and shared history for generations to come.
