The Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship (KBPF) announced that Rev. Franklin Graham will not attend the scheduled program on November 30 due to “unforeseen visa-related circumstances.” Despite this setback, the event will still proceed under the new title: “Nagaland United: A Gathering of Faith, Hope and Revival.” The KBPF emphasized that the gathering aims to unite believers from all tribes, denominations, and backgrounds-bringing together people of all ages and economic statuses for a time of praise, prayer, and worship to God.
The KBPF described the event as a unique moment for Nagaland to come together as one body in Christ. Organizers have planned a range of activities, including praise and worship, intercessory prayer, and a mass choir featuring over 700 participants from diverse tribal churches. The Word of God will be shared by Rev. Robert Cunville, an Associate Evangelist with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, who was instrumental in the historic Billy Graham Crusade in Nagaland in 1972.
To ensure smooth transportation, extensive arrangements have been made, with free transport available from designated points across Kohima starting at noon. A detailed traffic advisory covering vehicle routes and parking will be provided for public convenience on the morning of the event.
The fellowship has invited all believers and supporters to gather at IG Stadium in Kohima and pray for the event. For inquiries, individuals may contact the Control Room at the numbers provided in their announcement.
The decision to cancel Rev. Graham’s visit is notable, especially as it would have marked a significant moment for Nagaland, occurring over fifty years after his father, Rev. Dr. Billy Graham, preached in Kohima. The organizers envisioned this gathering as a unified expression of gratitude, prayer, and spiritual renewal, reflecting Nagaland’s strong Christian identity.
Church leaders expressed optimism that the event would foster unity among different denominations, promote peace, and strengthen the community’s faith and resilience. Earlier, KBPF President Rev. Dr. Ruokuovilie Sachü and Secretary Dr. S. N. Among Jamir highlighted the gathering as a unique opportunity for collective thanksgiving to God.
Amid societal challenges, including division and spiritual weariness, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) underscored the significance of the event. NBCC General Secretary Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener commended the KBPF for organizing the gathering, noting it stems from genuine pastoral concern and dedication to support those in need during the event.
This cancellation has revived public interest in the legacy of the 1972 crusade led by Billy Graham, reminding the community of their collective efforts in building the Billy Graham Road in Kohima through dedicated labor, which included thousands of believers who worked to raise funds for that historic event.
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/rev-franklin-grahams-nagaland-visit-cancelled-due-to-visa-issues
Category: Nagaland
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Publish Date: 2025-11-28 23:59:00
