Cutting across the varied interdenominational differences, leaders of all churches of Tura expressed a united opinion on the need for strict compliance with Covid-19 protocols as set by the government during the coming Christmas and New Year celebrations.
This was decided at a meeting held yesterday in Tura, which was convened by the West Garo Hills district administration to elicit and gather opinions of all stakeholders, particularly the church and community leaders to decide the course as to how to celebrate the festivals.
The meeting was called at the behest of the Chief Secretary, who is the Chairman of the State Disaster Management Authority.
Christmas poses a risk in the greater spreading of the coronavirus as people in Garo Hills organise community feasts and gather in pandals, locally called ‘pasa’, where they dance and sing hymns the whole night.
Representing the Baptist Church, Reverend FD Sangma said that his church has proposed not to hold full midnight services this year on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, instead beginning them at 7pm and ending by 8:30pm. Those above 65 years and under 10 years will be advised not to attend for their own safety.
