This photo reminds us of the remarkable life of Pastor Lienrum, a humble servant of God from the Hmar community. He was born in 1898 in Senvon village, where his father, Seilienrum, served as a tribal priest. From a young age, Lienrum grew up surrounded by traditional beliefs, but his life changed completely when he accepted Christianity and received baptism under Pastor R. Dala in 1914-15. In 1922, under the guidance of Pastor Dala, he married Miss Khuonglienpui in Senvon.
.jpg)
After his conversion, he felt a strong calling to share the gospel with his own people. He travelled across hills, walking from village to village, teaching and encouraging the Zo tribes. One memorable event happened in Suongsang village, where he prayed for a child who was almost dead. The child was healed, and this miracle strengthened the faith of many villagers.
Pastor Lienrum was also a gifted songwriter. His songs came directly from his own life experiences and continue to inspire church members today. One of his most loved songs is “Ni Tla Ngai Naw Zion Khawpui” (“No Sun Ever Set in Zion City”), believed to have been composed in Suongsang in 1927.
It is also said that when the Chief of Suongsang village refused to allow Lienrum to enter, he spent the night under a peepal tree, which still stands today. It was under this very tree that he composed his immortal song, later translated into many Zo-kindred languages, including the Thangkhal dialect.
He finally went to his eternal home on 23 July 1980, the place where, as his song says, the sun never sets.
In April 2014, the people of Suongsang held a special gathering to seek God’s forgiveness for once outcasting Pastor Lienrum and refusing him entry when he preached the Gospel. To mark this day of reconciliation, two oxen and two pigs were slaughtered for a grand communal feast.
During the ceremony, Rev. L. Neithang, the son of Pastor Lienrum, prayed for the village and blessed the community with humble and heartfelt prayers. This moment became a meaningful step towards healing, unity, and reconciliation.
Suongsang village, where some of his most important memories were formed, lies in the Thanlon subdivision, now known as Pherzawl district.
Photo credit: Mr Jeffrey C. Thangkhal, who visited Suongsang sometime ago.
~ KHALVONTAWI NEWS
.jpg)
No comments:
Post a Comment
Comments not related to the topic will be removed immediately.