Along with the rest of the world, Christians in Nagaland observed Resurrection Sunday or Easter Sunday with prayers and celebrations.
Believers of all denominations thronged churches and worship centres for special services to observe the resurrection of Jesus Christ three days after He was crucified for the redemption of mankind.
Rev.Lüruo leads Easter Sunrise Service: ‘Easter Sunrise Service’ was held in the Common Wealth War Grave Kohima where hundreds of worshippers gathered at the venue where state chaplain Rev.K.Lurüo gave the message on the occasion.
Rev. Lurüo said the ‘Easter truth’ was not about living a new life after death, but living a new on earth through the power of Christ’s resurrection.
Using the Paul’s letter in 1 Corinthians 15:14, he reminded that had Christ not been resurrected, then the preaching on forgiveness of sins and faith in God would be empty and vain.
He went on to say that it was only through Christ’s resurrection, that followers of the faith receive peace, the Holy Spirit and purpose of life; while the enemy, sin, curse and death were defeated on the cross at Calvary.
Exhorting believers to hold on to their faith, Rev. Lurüo reminded them of the influence and impact that the church, since its early history, had on government, society, economy and all round development.
Extending ‘Easter Greetings’ state chief secretary Alemtemshi Jamir, reminded the gathering that the resurrection of Christ not only changed people’s lives for victory over death, sin and darkness to live in peace and joy but that it also altered the course of human history
He said ‘Easter’ not only signified spiritual resurrection of mankind socially, politically and economically from curse in the Garden of Eden but that it also shaped humanity’s movement towards democracy, human rights, self-determination, good governance, justice, equity and partnership in progress. He said all these were guided by the principles of the Son of God, whose death and resurrection was being celebrated as an occasion.
“Let us claim the justice and equality gifted to us by the risen God who taught us to love our neighbor as ourselves and work for right to freedom, peace and struggle for a cleansing of the systems in our society”, he said.
Earlier, call to worship was led by Chakhesang Baptist Church Minister’s Hill, while Dr. Vevo Phesao president Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship chaired the service. Highlights included – scripture reading and invocation by Rev. Phomlee Van pastor Phom Baptist Baptist Church Kohima; special songs from women group Peraciezie Baptist church and Lotha Baptist church. Akhroü Koza was the song leader, Adeno Hibo played the piano, Kohima Baptist Youth Fellowship volunteered and sitting arrangement by Konyak youth fellowship. The programme was organized by Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship.
Prime Minister greets nation on Easter
NEW DELHI, MAR 31 (IANS): Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Sunday greeted the people on Easter Sunday, saying the festival celebrates compassion and brotherhood and the renewal of hope in a better tomorrow.
“The eternal significance of Christ’s resurrection is that love is stronger than hatred and truth triumphs over evil,” Singh said in his message.
“Easter celebrates compassion and brotherhood and the renewal of hope in a better tomorrow. May the celebrations strengthen the bonds of unity and spread hope and joy,” he said.
Easter celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ on the third day after his crucifixion.