Phüsachodü village celebrates 75 years of Christianity

DIMAPUR — Phüsachodü village, which one of the biggest villages in Phek district, is celebrating 75th anniversary of Christianity on December 9 and 10 on the theme “Thus far the Lord has helped us” (1Samuel 7:12).

An update from the church informed that after resisting the gospel for decades, the first convert from Phüsachodümi village was baptised in 1948.

The 75th anniversary monolith was unveiled by Rev. Dr. Chekroveyi Cho-o, executive secretary of Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) on December 9. Rev. Cho-o elucidated that the erection of monoliths in Naga history is connected with significant meritorious deeds and achievements of an individual or the community while in the history of the Israelites stones and monoliths were erected to commemorate God’s goodness and faithfulness, a reminder of His promises and covenants.

He explained the event where God gave Israelites victory over the Philistines and Prophet Samuel erected a stone at Mizpah and gave the name ‘Ebenezer,’ which means ‘stone of help.’ Rev. Cho-o stated that the 75th anniversary is a time of celebrating God’s goodness and faithfulness and also a time to look ahead to greater responsibilities towards the kingdom.

Speaking on the theme at the evening worship service, Rev. Cho-o expounded that Israel as a chosen people did not always see victory and peace but went through times of tribulation, defeat and oppression due to their disobedience. He added that Mizpah is significant as a symbol of victory given to the Israelites over the Philistines as God’s gracious answer to the prayer of Israel. It signifies a moment of grateful pause before they proceeded ahead, a moment of rest and remembering God’s goodness and grace, he added.

“Nominalism is a disease in Nagaland. Our churches seem full but appears spiritually empty. Our church buildings are getting bigger and grander. It almost appears like a competition where the next church building is bigger and grander,” Rev. Cho-o said.

He questioned if they we investing enough in the spiritual growth of the members and children. He also questioned if the flame of faith appears to be growing cold with the passing of the early believers.

He further stated that anniversaries are providential times to recapitulate the gracious hands of God, a time to recommit oneself expectantly anticipating God’s goodness in the days ahead.

In his welcome address, Chotisuh Sazo, former NLA Speaker, recollected the early years when missionaries were chased away and early believers were subjected to persecution, humiliation and ostracisation. He declared that today all believers are welcomed and every home in the village is open to all invitees and delegates as adopted citizens of the village in Christ’s name.

Rev. P Bonny Resüh, lead pastor of Chakhesang Baptist Church, Dimapur, and former general secretary of APBF, released the anniversary souvenir and blessed the programme, while Kudechoyi Khamo, advisor of CAWD and Taxes, greeted the congregation and called everyone to celebrate the efforts of those who brought the gospel to the village and remember the sacrifices of the early believers.

Also read: Governor urges communities to co-exist in harmony