Dimapur, Jan. 16 (EMN): Elucidating that forgiveness and unity are the true essence of celebrating jubilee, Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton has urged the public to propagate those virtues to enable both the church and the society to grow hand-in-hand.
Exhorting the members of Serika Baptist Church on the occasion of its golden jubilee celebration on January 16, Patton has termed the achievement ‘milestone’ stating that every success story has a humble beginning. He also urged the members to revere and give recognition to the pioneers stating that it was only through them that they could come thus far.
Serika, being located in Merapani area bordering Assam, Patton has cautioned the youngsters against drugs and substance abuse which could ruin their career. On the misuse of mobile phones, Patton has termed it as bane rather than a boon as most students are glued to their phones rather than books, which according to him was detrimental for their future.
Patton also emphasised on the urgency to conserve and preserve forest and wildlife, which are fast vanishing. In this regard, he urged the public to desist from gifting wildlife to VIP and dignitaries.
He further assured to sponsor two needy theologians with a sum of INR 10,000 each per month from the village till their graduation.
While greetings to the congregation, the principal secretary E Mhonbemo Patton stated that putting God first in everything is the only way to reach what has not been attainable and to achieve what has not been achieved earlier.
In his message, senior pastor of KLBC Rev. Dr. Benry Lotha stated that jubilee is a time for thanksgiving, forgiveness and more importantly to renew fellowship with the Lord and make a new covenant for the future.
On the occasion, songs were presented by the choirs of Serika Baptist Church and Old Riphyim Baptist Church.
