NBCC calls for moral renewal amid rising social concerns in Nagaland

April 24, 2025 12 Views No Comment

KOHIMA, APRIL 24 (MExN): The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) has issued a public appeal calling for a renewed emphasis on justice and righteousness in the state, citing ongoing social and moral challenges such as corruption, violence and disunity.

In a statement released on April 23, the NBCC General Secretary, Rev Dr Mar Pongener emphasized that Nagaland, despite its majority Christian population, continues to face widespread issues including killings, rape, extortion, nepotism, and community divisions. The Council expressed concern that these problems indicate a deeper spiritual and moral disconnect within society.

Referring to biblical teachings, the NBCC underscored that justice and righteousness are central to the Christian faith and should be reflected not only in personal conduct but also in public life. It noted that true justice involves fairness and impartiality, while righteousness requires moral integrity and ethical behavior.

The NBCC warned against superficial expressions of faith, stating that nominal Christianity—practicing religion in form but not in substance—contributes to a lack of transformation in individuals and institutions. The statement highlighted that religious identity alone does not guarantee societal health or moral leadership.

The Council urged both church and political leaders to demonstrate integrity and servant leadership. It also called on families and educational institutions to instill strong values in the youth, aiming for a future grounded in justice, compassion, and unity.

Issuing a heartfelt and urgent call to churches, government, civil societies and all people of goodwill, the NBCC appealed now is the time to rise together, to pray with sincerity, to act with courage and to live with unwavering faithfulness.