Ukhrul, February 07 2009: Thousands, including some Americans flooded the Somdal village of Ukhrul District as the village celebrates its 100th Anniversary of Christianity from Feruary 6 to 9.It is being celebrated under the theme, "Chosen to go and bear fruit".

Reaping the fruit of Christianity and western education sown 100 years back by RS Ruichumhao, delegates from 64 villages, kith and kin and the locals filled the centenary hall, having the capacity to hold 5000 people at the NK Higher Secondary School Ground. Some American are also taking part in the jubilant occasion.

Rev Dr A Roy Medley, General Secretary of American Baptist Churches in United States of America, Dr Riley Holcomb Walker, Executive Minister of American Baptist Churches (Dakota) and Dr Atola Longkumer Khamrang, Lecturer Leonard Theological College, Jabalpur will be the speakers during the celebrations.

Symbolizing the turn over of dark to light and Jesus as the light of the World, the whole village having around 400 households is illuminated with pine torch just after the inaugural function of the celebration.

Late RS Ruichumhao, one amongst the first converts from paganism to Christianity in the Tangkhul community was honoured by inaugurating the RS Ruichumhao Memorial Hall.

Ruichumhao was born on May 7, 1896.He led the team of Labour Corps to France during the 1st World War.

After his service as a Head Master of Mission School, Ukhrul in the year 1920, he became the pastor of Somdal Baptist Church from 1921- 1933 and he was ordained by Rev William Pettigrew in the year 1922 .

He also won 1300 souls during his short lifetime.

He expired on January 17, 1933.In his memory, a school has been established in his name at Somdal Village.

Somdal Village is one among the villages of the district with the highest literacy rate.

It is also the native village of RS Suisa, who once served as the Member of Legislative Assembly, Manipur, and was also the Member of Parliament.

Thuingaleng Muivah, General Secretary of NSCN-IM also hails from this village.

However, it is interesting that he does not own a home nor he has any other properties in his village.

The Somdal Village is situated 22 kms from Ukhrul Headquarters in the west.

Comment