Let's make Manipur land of love, unity: Ibobi
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, November 15 2015: The people of Manipur have pursued different faiths and beliefs but all are heading for the same destination and this is why there is a need to make "our land", the land of love and unity, stated Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi on Sunday .

The Chief Minister was speaking at the concluding day of the Diamond Jubilee celebration of Manipur Baptist Convention (MBC) on Sunday.

Speaking as the Chief Guest at the celebration function, Ibobi stressed on an individual's right to follow any faith pointing out that the Constitution of India allows such pursuits without any discrimination.

Following the teachings of all religions and appreciating the principles from one's inner core, one should also contribute to bringing love, peace and unity in the State, urged the Chief Minister during his speech.

Let's make Manipur land of love, unity: Ibobi

Dismissing the existence of communalism in Manipur, the Chief Minister pointed out that "the issue of communalism can be as destructive as an atom bomb".

Ibobi pleaded that the citizens of Manipur should continue to love one another as "brothers and sisters" and recall the bond cemented in the past.

He said all religions lead to the same destination as God is One.

Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam who was the Guest of Honour at the celebration exhorted the gathering on principles of love and forgiveness as propounded by the Christian faith.

He said it was important that all followers of Christianity should remember these principles.

"If we all follow the true Christian faith, there will be peace, love and unity in society", said Gaikhangam.

He said that love, peace and unity can bind all the communities of Manipur and called on all to be united. During the celebration, Rev Banner Makan, former pastor of MBCCCI invoked God's blessings.

There were special songs, music performance, choreography, opera etc., during the celebration in the noon celebration.

The closing ceremony began at 5 pm in the evening with Rev Bonny Resu as the speaker.

He spoke on the theme "Christ, the Finisher of our Faith.

There praise and worship was led by MBCCCI Choir while invocation prayer was led by M Tuizar, a Church elder of MBCCCI.

There was greeting from Rev Vumthang Sitlhou, former general secretary of MBC.

Musical gift was presented by Azeene Kamei, offertory prayer by Rev T Karang and a song presentation by KBC Choir.

The ceremony ended with blessing and closing prayer by Rev Prim Vaiphei, former Youth Secretary MBC and Former Pastor MBCCI.