January 31, 2022
People from all walks of life paid glowing tributes to late Rev. Yankey Patton at the ‘home going’ funeral service held at Lotha Baptist Church Diphupar on Sunday, organised by the Lotha Baptist Churches Association.
Late. Rev. Yankey, Nagaland’s first State Chaplain, passed away on January 28 at his residence in Diphupar.
According to DPRO, Nchumbemo Patton, the only son of late Rev. Yankey Patton described his father as a spiritual icon and highlighted the many divine interventions upon his dad during his ministry.
Meripeni Patton, the youngest grand-daughter of the late Rev. Yankey Patton described him as her spiritual guide and mentor besides helping her to build a strong relationship with God.
Former NLA speaker Thenucho recalled an incident (August 14, 1991) when he was the speaker, accompanied by Rev. Yankey (State Chaplian then), were travelling to Mon to attend the Independence Day celebration. He said their entourage was ambushed near Nagaland gate during which nine NAP police personnel, his PA, driver and bodyguard were killed.
However, even after 20 bullets pierced Rev. Yankey Patton’s coat, Thenucho said Rev. Yankey miraculously escaped with not a single bullet injuring him, while he (Thenucho) seated next to Rev. Yankey also escaped unhurt.
His honesty, commitment and relationship with God continued with the same spirit and zeal, Thenucho said, adding that the life of late Rev. Yankey was a blessing to the entire Nagas and Lotha in particular.
Advisor, Mmhonlumo Kikon speaking on behalf of Ralan village (native place of Lt. Rev. Yankey) described him as a man of faith, a man of integrity who walked the talk only for Christ and led an exemplary life.
He testified that several miracles were shown throughout his life, he said adding that “As a man of faith, he is on his way to the everlasting shore.”
Mmhonlumo thanked LBCA for organising a befitting program to the great son of Naga soil celebrating the life of late Rev. Yankey Patton.
Mmhonlumo also read out the condolence message on behalf of chief minister, Neiphiu Rio.
Several speakers including, former principal of ETC Jorhat, Rev. Dr. Ezamo Murry on behalf of Lotha Reverends and LBCA; Rev. Limhathung pastor, on behalf of Lotha Baptist Church Diphupar; NBCC, NPBCA, family members and friends who spoke at service showered praises and said that late Rev. Yankey lived a life committed to serve God. Rev. Dr. E. Nrio Ezung president LBCA also spoke at the funeral while Rev. Mhathung Yanthan, missionary at large, Kohima Lotha Baptist Church offered the invocation prayer.
LBCD women group presented a special number while Mrs Orensali (sister in- law of late Rev Yankey) also eulogised through a meaningful rendition. Former executive secretary, Rev. M.C. Kithan read the scripture while Home Evangelist LBCD Rev. R.P. Murry pronounced the benediction.
LBCA chairman ordination board, Rev. Khonbemo P. Kikon who chaired the programme also read the condolence messages.
After the service, the body of late Yankey Patton, accompanied by bikers, warriors, family, friends and Reverends left for New Ralan village where he was finally laid to rest. The committal service at Ralan village was conducted by former pastor of Bhandari Baptist Church, Rev. Abemo Patton.
Source: http://www.nagalandpost.com/rev-yankey-patton-laid-to-rest/
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