By Van Bawi Lian | In a statement released on November 11, Christian leaders in the capital of Chin State, Hakha, made an appeal to churches, urging them to abstain from hosting any festive celebrations for Christmas and New Year.
The statement emphasizes, “It has been two years since we were unable to commemorate Christmas and New Year events. After careful consideration, we have collectively decided to forego all festive celebrations for the 2022 Christmas and New Year in Hakha. However, churches are encouraged to conduct regular worship services during these occasions.”
The statement also provides specific guidelines regarding the decoration of church properties and Christian family homes. It advises that churches and homes decorate only their interior spaces.
“We acknowledge the significance of Christmas and New Year in the Chin culture. Nevertheless, how can we joyfully celebrate these occasions when many of our fellow Chin people are enduring hardship in jungle camps and foreign refugee camps,” expressed a Christian leader who preferred to remain anonymous due to security concerns when speaking to The Chin Journal.
Prior to the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic and the military coup, the Christmas and New Year festivities were observed with great meaning and enthusiasm across Chin State. For Chin Christians, Christmas goes beyond being a commemoration of the birth of Jesus Christ; it is also a time for strengthening family bonds. Relatives from various parts of the world would return to Chin State to reunite and spend quality time with their loved ones.
