By: Addie Chiphang
Ukhrul, October 21:
On the eve of one of the most significant and spiritually charged events in recent Tangkhul history, Rev. Pastor Zaklei Kaping of Phungyo Baptist Church — the mother church of Tangkhul Christianity — has extended his warmest greetings and heartfelt blessings to Avakharar Thuingaleng Muivah, Ato Kilonser of the NSCN (IM), as he prepares to return home on October 22, 2025.
In a deeply moving message, Pastor Zaklei invoked the word “Halelo”, a traditional Tangkhul term meaning “Here I am; I am with you”, to welcome the revered leader. He explained that Halelo is not merely a greeting but a profound expression of presence, faith, and solidarity — a word that transcends generations and situations, symbolizing both divine assurance and human commitment.
“The word Halelo carries a powerful message. It means ‘Here I am, I am with you.’ Our ancestors used it since time immemorial, and today, it resonates as a spiritual reminder that God is with us — morning to evening, in joy and in struggle,” Pastor Zaklei shared.
He went on to explain that Halelo has become a sacred expression among Tangkhul Christians — a declaration that God is ever-present, guiding His people as He once guided Moses and Joshua in the Old Testament. “Just as God was with His chosen people then, He is with us now. God has chosen the Tangkhul, the Nagas, to be His people, and He has chosen Avakharar Th. Muivah to lead the Naga nation,” he said.
Pastor Zaklei reflected on the life and legacy of Th. Muivah, describing him as a man of deep faith, unwavering conviction, and divine purpose. “Avakharar has always said Halelo — Here I am, God, with Your blessing I serve my people. Every step he took, he placed his faith in God. Through trials, isolation, and burdens beyond measure, he never lost hope. His strength and courage come from God alone,” he affirmed.
He further emphasized that Muivah’s lifelong service to the Naga nation is not just a political journey but a spiritual mission — one rooted in divine providence and guided by unwavering trust in the Almighty. “Our Avakharar’s faith has carried him through every storm. God is his refuge and his strength — his protector, his guide, and his power,” Zaklei noted with reverence.
As Th. Muivah returns home after decades of national service, Pastor Zaklei described the occasion as both historic and spiritually awakening — a moment of unity, gratitude, and divine blessing for the Tangkhul people.
“After so many decades of service and sacrifice, his homecoming is not just an event — it is a blessing, a reminder of God’s faithfulness. We are grateful, we are indebted, and we are blessed through him. Let us all say Halelo — here I am, I am with you, Avakharar. We will follow your footsteps and uphold the legacy you have imprinted in our hearts,” he said.
In a touching gesture of honor and reverence, the Phungyo Baptist Church (PBC) has erected a grand welcome gate at its entrance, adorned with a golden crown and the inscriptions “Halelo: Here I am, I am with you” and “You keep our hope alive.” The symbolic archway stands as a tribute to Th. Muivah’s lifelong devotion to God and the Naga cause — a reflection of the people’s unwavering love, faith, and support for their beloved leader.
The golden crown atop the gate signifies divine glory and victory, while the inscription draws from the Book of Joshua 1:5, which reads:
“As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
This verse, Pastor Zaklei said, mirrors the journey of Th. Muivah and the Naga people — a journey sustained by divine strength, faith, and endurance.
As Ukhrul and the entire Tangkhul community prepare to welcome their revered leader home, the air is filled with prayer, anticipation, and unity. For the people of Ukhrul, this homecoming is not merely a political moment — it is a spiritual renewal, a testament of faith, and a celebration of divine purpose fulfilled.
In the spirit of Halelo, Pastor Zaklei concluded his message with a heartfelt prayer:
“God bless Avakharar Th. Muivah. May God be with him always. Halelo — Here I am, I am with you.”
As dawn breaks over Ukhrul on October 22, the words Halelo will echo through the hills — a timeless declaration of faith, unity, and unwavering love for their leader and for the Almighty who guides them all.