The day Light reached the hills
Ukhrul mass prayer and fasting will recall the arrival of William Pettigrew

Addie Chiphang *

Historic arrival of Reverend William Pettigrew, 1st Christian missionary to set foot in Tangkhul territory :: Pix - TSE

ON January 27, Ukhrul/Hunphun will observe a day of mass prayer and fasting under the theme, “I will praise Thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify Thy name for evermore.” (Psalm 86:12).

This solemn occasion commemorates the historic arrival of Reverend William Pettigrew, the first Christian missionary to set foot in Tangkhul Naga territory, bringing with him a new faith that transformed the spiritual and cultural identity of the region.

The day-long event will take place at Mission Ground, Alungtang, Ukhrul, where all Christian denominations across the Tangkhul community will unite in prayer. With one voice, they will give thanks to God, seek peace, and glorify Jesus Christ for His salvation. The organizers have extended an open invitation to all Tangkhul brethren in Christ to participate, making it a moment of communal reflection and unity.

The story of Reverend Pettigrew’s arrival is deeply intertwined with divine prophecy and ancestral wisdom. According to oral history, the coming of a missionary was foretold to Qr. Rashing, a Hunphun chief, in a dream long before Pettigrew's arrival.

God revealed to the chief that a “strange man with white hair like Maramwon (wild white flower) and white skin like Luihor (white buffalo)” would come to their land, bringing His word. The chief was instructed to welcome this man with open arms, for God had chosen the Tangkhul people as His own.

The prophecy was passed down through generations, with each chief reminding his successor of this divine vision. During a time when the Tangkhuls were fierce headhunters, this vision seemed unimaginable. However, on January 27, 1896, during the reign of Chief Qr. Raihao, the prophecy came to pass.

On that winter morning, Chief Raihao was basking in the sun at his courtyard when he heard a commotion from Leingapha.

His men reported spotting a “strange man” with white hair and skin, surrounded by the Hunphun - Yaron warriors, who were ready to harm him. Overwhelmed with emotion, Chief Raihao recalled his father’s prophetic words. Without hesitation, he ordered his men to cease their actions and went himself to meet the stranger.

With open arms and a welcoming smile, Chief Raihao received the man who was none other than Reverend William Pettigrew. In that moment, centuries of prophecy were fulfilled. Chief Raihao later revealed the divine instructions passed down through generations, affirming that Pettigrew’s arrival was God’s will.

Reverend Petti-grew’s presence marked the beginning of a new chapter for the Tang-khul people. His teachings not only brought Christianity to the region but also introduced education, healthcare, and social reforms, leaving an indelible mark on Tangkhul history.

The annual mass prayer and fasting on January 27 is not merely a religious observance but a tribute to this pivotal moment in history. It serves as a reminder of the divine intervention that shaped the destiny of the Tangkhul community.

Today, as the Tangkhuls come together in worship, they honor the legacy of both their ancestors and Reverend Pettigrew. They reaffirm their faith, seeking strength and guidance from the same God who chose them as His people. The event is a testament to the unity, resilience, and unwavering spirit of the Tangkhul Christians, who continue to walk in the light brought to them over a century ago.

The organizer-Ukhrul/ Hunphun khà hopes that this year’s observance will inspire deeper faith and fellowship among the Tangkhul brethren, as they remember the words of Psalm 86:12 and look forward to a future anchored in God’s love and grace. Truly, Jan 27 is a day of both history and hope, celebrated with gratitude and reverence.