Chief Minister attends State-level Pre-Christmas celebration at Jorethang

NAMCHI, (IPR): A State-level Pre-Christmas celebration was organised by the United Christian Workers’ Social Society (UCWSS), All Sikkim Christian Organisation (ASCO) and all churches of Sikkim at Jorethang today.

Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, graced the occasion as the chief guest. He was accompanied by his spouse and former MLA Krishna Kumari Rai. 

The guest speaker for the programme was Dr. Archarya Vikash Massey.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister congratulated the organising committee for successful coordination and smooth conduct of the programme. He warmly welcomed the guest speaker to the State and expressed his appreciation for Dr. Massey’s contributions towards the welfare and upliftment of society.

Highlighting the significant contributions of the Christian community in fields such as politics, philanthropy, education, science and music, the Chief Minister emphasised the importance of sustained collective efforts to uphold peace and tranquillity in the State. He also underscored the need to preserve, protect and conserve the traditions and cultural heritage that define Sikkim.

The Chief Minister urged everyone to follow the teachings of love, peace and unity, and to apply these values in rendering selfless service to humanity. He reaffirmed that the State government and the administration remain committed to supporting all communities and citizens, and assured that the demands placed by community representatives would be addressed in the near future.

During the programme, the Chief Minister was felicitated by the organising committee. In turn, he felicitated senior pastors from various churches, as well as L.B. Baraily, a renowned Christian singer, in recognition of his contribution to gospel music.

A sermon was delivered by the guest speaker, Dr. Massey, who was later presented with a token of appreciation by the organising committee through the Chief Minister.

The event also witnessed the release of posters for Sikkim Theological Seminar, Rateypani Namthang and Sikkim Prayer Festival 2026. The flag for the forthcoming Pre-Christmas celebrations was ceremonially handed over, and a cheque amounting to Rs. 10 lakh was presented to Gyalshing district celebration committee for the 2026 celebrations. Earlier, grants under the Chief Minister’s Discretionary Grants Scheme were distributed to various churches across the State for infrastructural development projects.

The programme concluded with vibrant musical performances by guest artist Sheldon Bangera, choir groups, and local artistes from the community, adding colour and spirit to the festive occasion.