Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio Urges Focus on Christ During Advent Christmas Celebration at Hornbill Festival
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio called for reflection on the true meaning of Christmas, emphasizing the centrality of Jesus Christ, during the Advent Christmas devotional service at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama. The event marked a historic first—the integration of Advent Christmas celebrations with the Hornbill Festival, now in its 25th edition.
Addressing the gathering, Rio highlighted the hope, peace, and salvation brought by Christ and celebrated the vibrant community spirit of the occasion. He reassured attendees that the event did not diminish the essence of Christmas but instead underscored the interconnection between spiritual identity, indigenous heritage, and political identity. Rio urged the participants to embody Christian values of tolerance, forgiveness, and goodwill during the festive season.
The devotional service, organized by the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), featured a sermon by Rev. Zelhou Keyho, NJCF adviser, who reminded attendees of the profound meaning of Christmas as a celebration of Jesus Christ’s birth. Rev. Keyho encouraged reflection amid personal challenges and stressed that the season is about glorifying God, not material or secular traditions. “Christmas is not about Santa Claus but about God’s presence among us,” he stated, urging the congregation to strive for peace and goodwill.
The event also showcased soulful musical performances by the Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church (Kohima), the Nagaland Chamber Choir, the Khedi Baptist Church (Kohima Village), and Live Voice (CRC Viswema), which enriched the spiritual and festive ambiance.
Rio extended gratitude to the NJCF for organizing the service and praised the unique integration of Christmas celebration with the cultural grandeur of the Hornbill Festival. The occasion was a testament to the harmonious blend of faith, tradition, and community spirit, fostering a renewed sense of hope and unity during the holiday season.
