Resilient Faith: Kangpokpi Christians celebrate triumphant Easter Sunday amid unrest

Kaybie Chongloi

Kangpokpi (Manipur), April 20: Against a backdrop of lingering conflict and uncertainty, the Christian community of Kangpokpi stood united in unwavering faith and jubilant celebration as they marked Easter Sunday—the most sacred day on the Christian calendar—commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Easter Sunday holds profound significance for Christians worldwide. It symbolizes Jesus’ victory over sin and death, affirming the cornerstone of Christian faith – that through Christ’s resurrection, believers are offered the promise of eternal life and renewed hope.

As the sun rose over Kangpokpi’s district headquarters, the crisp morning air rang with church bells and the soaring voices of worshippers. Clad in radiant white and light‑toned attire, hundreds streamed into churches with hearts full of reverence and joy, determined to honour the risen Christ.

Even as tensions simmer across the region, the resilient spirit of the faithful could not be dampened. Churches overflowed with congregants proclaiming the triumph of life over death and faith over fear.

From daybreak, Easter services echoed with heartfelt prayers, vibrant hymns and soul‑stirring sermons. The traditional exchange of ornately decorated Easter eggs—lovingly prepared by the youth of KBC Centre Church and Kangpokpi Independent Baptist Church—added smiles and symbolism to the sacred day.

In a further display of devotion, many worshippers dressed in white visited the town cemetery, re‑enacting the resurrection in solemn tribute. Songs such as “Christ Is Risen, Hallelujah, Praise the Lord, O My Soul” rose through the air, resonating with joy and spiritual fire.

Though the customary communal hymn‑singing at noon remained suspended for the second year because of unrest, the essence of Easter thrived through countless acts of faith and fellowship.

At Kangpokpi Christian Church, the Thadou Baptist Association Church, Chongthu Baptist Churches Association Centre Church and many others, thousands gathered in worship, each congregation forming a pillar of strength and unity.

The Christian Revival Church capped the day with a grand Easter Feast, drawing the entire congregation into an atmosphere of joy, unity and reflection. Rooted in the biblical tradition of fellowship, the feast recalled both the Last Supper and the eternal banquet promised in heaven. The celebration culminated with Lenkhom—victory hymns that echoed until 4:30 p.m., enveloping the day in praise.

This Easter, Kangpokpi’s Christians did more than celebrate, they proclaimed victory—not only Christ’s, but their own, affirming peace over conflict and a hope that refuses to yield.

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