The 5th Sirti Thamna Enii (Monsang Day of Prayer 2023) was observed at Liwa Khullen Community Hall, Chandel on Sunday, under the aegis of Sirti Upa Ruh (Monsang Tribe Union), the apex body of the Monsang tribe.
Th Vincent Warnong, Local Catechist, St Dominic Catholic Church, Liwa-Khullen and Rev John Khartu, Evangelist, Japhou Baptist Church were the main celebrants of the prayer observation day.
Ng Benithan, president, SUR, in his welcome and keynote address, welcomed the important dignitaries and all the public for attending the historic occasion of the community. He also acknowledged and thanked the Monsang elders and leaders who led the Monsang people socially, politically and religiously thus far.
The main purpose of observing ‘Sirti Thamna Enii’ is to give thanks to God, and seek God’s blessing for Monsang people through collective community prayer irrespective of religious denominations and affiliation, he stated.
The ‘Monsang Day of Prayer’ is held on October 29 every year. It may be mentioned that the Monsang tribe got recognition as scheduled tribe on October 29, 1956 by the Government of India, Ministry of Home Affairs. As such, October 29 is chosen every year as ‘Monsang Day of Prayer’ by Sirti Upa Ruh (Monsang Tribe Union) since the inception of the idea and observation of the 1st Sirti Thamna Enii at Japhou village in 2019.
The auspicious ‘Monsang Day of Prayer 2023’ was attended by many Monsang citizens across all Monsang villages and churches. Monsang leaders from SUR, SER, SSR, STS, MOA, MLLS, SOA, church leaders, village chiefs, women leaders, and student leaders attended the programme in Monsang traditional attire.
The occasion moderated by Sh. Beshani, Vice President SUR started with invocation prayer by Ng. Johnson, Local Catechist, Holy Cross Catholic Church, Monsang Pantha. The singspiration team was led by Women Society of St. Dominic Church, Liwa Khullen. Monsang beautiful special numbers were presented by Ts. Angchung, Liwachangning Women Fellowship and Liwa Sarei Youth Club. Japhou Baptist Church, Children Sunday School presented a beautiful choreography, much to the delight of the audience.
The congregation led by the main celebrants offered special prayer particularly for peace, prosperity and development of the Monsang tribe. Ng Longly, Secretary, Assembly Affairs, SUR in his vote of thanks appreciated all the participating members for support and love towards the community. The prayer day programme ended with closing prayer by W. Molali, Licentiate Pastor, Changnhe Baptist Church, MNBCA.
