Many churches hold online Christmas services in Nagaland

KOHIMA

Nagaland celebrated Christmas with religious fervour and joy on December 25 with many churches holding live online Christmas services because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the state capital Kohima, while many Churches have cancelled the major celebrations with masses in Church premises but are conducting live online Christmas services, some are holding the special mass in the Churches but with a limited gathering of believers in phases.

Meanwhile, Nagaland Governor R N Ravi, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, Deputy Chief Minister Y Patton, Leader of Opposition T R Zeliang, political parties, Naga national political groups, tribal hohos (organisation) and civil societies have extended Christmas greetings to the people of the state.

“Truth, non-violence, forgiveness and grace are the essence of this joyous festival. Let us imbibe these essential virtues as we celebrate Christmas,” said Ravi in his message.

Chief Minister Rio said, “Christmas is a season of peace, joy and hope. A time of giving, a time of sharing and of loving. A time to share the good news of God’’s love to all, ... Christmas signifies the end of despair, the beginning of hope and a time of new blessings from God.”

Unlike the previous years where Christmas feast used to be part of the Church celebration, this year the state Health and Family Welfare Department has discouraged sharing the feast but to give take away packages. (PTI)

(Edited by Christopher Gatphoh)