Faith over division: Mao-Poumai fellowship calls for unity and forgiveness
Source: The Sangai Express

Senapati, April 09 2026: At a time when Manipur continues to grapple with deep divisions and mistrust among communities, a strong message of reconciliation and unity echoed from the hills of Senapati as members of the Mao and Poumai communities gathered for the Mao Baptist Church Association (MBCA) and Poumai Naga Baptist Church (PNBA) Combined Fellowship held on April 8 and 9.Held under the theme "Loving God, Loving Neighbors" (Luke 10:27), the fellowship brought together church leaders, public representatives and believers from both communities in a call for unity, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence.

Faith over division: Mao-Poumai fellowship calls for unity and forgiveness

Hosted by Mao-Poumai SKABU at Khabung Karong, the programme featured prominent speakers including Th Sonela, Coordinator of Montessori Teachers' Training Institute, Senapati; Rev Dr Tasoni Moon, Director of Pioneer Outreach Ministry, MBC Punanamei; and Rev RS Abraham, Pastor of Poumai Baptist Church, Poulea.

Convenor of the fellowship Rev A Pfokrelo, Executive Secretary of MBCA, recalled that the initiative was first started in 2012 by the late Rev Koda and Rev Gideon with the objective of strengthening ties between the Mao and Poumai communities.

He noted that the two communities were historically one tribe and stressed that the fellowship seeks to guide the younger generations towards lives rooted in faith, honesty and mutual respect.

Echoing the need for reconciliation, Rev Dr Samual, Secretary of PNBA, emphasised that conflicts would persist if people continued toharbour grudges.

"As Christians, we are called to forgive," he said, reminding the gathering that the Bible teaches that one who forgives is greater than one who refuses to forgive.

Delivering the sermon, Rev Dr Tasoni Moon urged believers to reflect Christ through love and unity, warning that the world often sees Christians divided by hatred and backbiting.

"People look at our lives as a sermon," he said, encouraging believers to live in a way that reflects God's love.

Speaking on the relationship between the Mao and Poumai communities, he reminded the congregation that while people may change, friends and neighbours cannot.

"God has placed us as neighbours," he said, calling on both communities to choose peace and coexistence.

Rev Moon also appealed for forgiveness and reconciliation as the MBCA prepares to celebrate its centenary from January 16 to 18, 2027, urging both communities to leave past grievances behind and strengthen their bond for future generations.

Deputy Chief Minister Losii Dikho, who attended the programme, described the fellowship as a testimony of unity and expressed appreciation for the role of the Church in fostering peace and discipline in society.

He noted that a strong Church contributes to a stronger and more cohesive society.

MLA Kumo Sha also lauded the organisers for bringing both communities together and encouraged people to strengthen their faith while extending support to the less privileged.

He further proposed inter-village visits between the Mao and Poumai communities as a means to rebuild trust and understanding.

As Manipur continues its search for lasting peace, the fellowship concluded with a simple yet profound message echoed throughout the gathering - that forgiveness, faith and neighbourly love remain the only path towards healing and unity among divided communities.