Founding and Historical Milestone

The Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) was founded in 1868 by two visionary missionaries: Hans Peter Boerresen, a Dane, and Lars Olsen Skrefsrud, a Norwegian. Their work among the indigenous communities laid the foundation for what has become a legacy of faith and service. Later, Paul Olaf Bodding, another notable missionary, made a lasting contribution by developing the Santali Latin alphabet, which continues to empower the region’s people to this day.

Originally rooted in the Santal Mission of Northern Churches, the Church adopted its present name, Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC), in 1958. Its headquarters are located in Dumka, Jharkhand, a hub for education and theology that reflects the Church’s commitment to intellectual and spiritual growth.

Diverse Community of Faith

The Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) has a membership of over 85,000 baptized believers, predominantly composed of Santals, followed by Boro and Bengali communities. This diversity underscores the church’s multi-ethnic and multi-lingual character, creating a rich tapestry of worship and fellowship.

Festivals and Celebrations

The NELC observes vibrant festivals and celebrations that reflect its cultural and spiritual heritage. Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter are celebrated with great fervor, accompanied by traditional music, dances, and community gatherings. Additionally, the Church commemorates its founding and the contributions of its missionaries during special services, reinforcing its historical legacy.

Leadership and Governance

The leadership of the Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) is marked by dedication and vision. The Church is currently shepherded by several bishops:

• Rt. Rev. Dr. Mani K. Kujur
• Rt. Rev. Dr. Nityananda Murmu
• Rt. Rev. Alwin Tudu
  These leaders work tirelessly to guide the church in fulfilling its mission of serving communities in faith, education, and healthcare.

Missionary and Community Service

The Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) demonstrates an unwavering dedication to serving its community. It operates several health centers, with its main hospital located in Mohulpahari, Jharkhand, providing vital healthcare services to underserved populations. The Mornai Tea Estate, located in the recently formed Kokrajhar district of Assam, is another hallmark of the church’s social and economic contributions.

Theological Education

Education remains a cornerstone of the NELC’s mission. The church provides theological training and operates schools that shape future leaders in both religious and secular arenas.

Ecumenical Engagement

As a member of the United Evangelical Lutheran Churches in India, the Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) collaborates with other denominations to promote Christian unity and social transformation.

Festivals and Celleberation

The Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) celebrates a mix of Christian festivals, community events, and culturally significant occasions, reflecting its vibrant heritage and diverse membership. These festivals serve not only as religious observances but also as opportunities for fellowship, worship, and cultural expression among its multi-ethnic community.

Key Festivals and Celebrations

1. Christmas

Date: December 25
Significance: Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
Observance: Marked by special church services, carol singing, and community feasts. Residences and churches are adorned with radiant lights, sparkling stars, and intricately crafted nativity displays. It is a time for sharing gifts and joy within the community.

2. Good Friday

Date: Friday before Easter
Meaning: Honors the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and His selfless sacrifice for the redemption of humanity
Observance: Somber prayer services and sermons reflecting on Christ’s passion and death. Many members participate in fasting and meditative prayer.

3. Easter

Date: Sunday following Good Friday
Significance: Celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, symbolizing hope and victory over sin and death.
Observance: Joyful church services featuring hymns, sermons, and the sacrament of Holy Communion. Community meals and celebrations often follow.

4. Harvest Festival

Significance: Acknowledges God’s provision and blessings of a bountiful harvest.
Observance: Congregations gather to thank God for the crops and produce. Offerings of fruits and grains are presented at the altar. The celebration is enriched by the inclusion of cultural songs and lively dances.

5. Reformation Day

Date: October 31
Significance: Honors the Protestant Reformation and Martin Luther’s contributions to Christianity.
Observance: Special church services focus on themes of reform, renewal, and adherence to Scripture.

6. Founders’ Day

Significance: Commemorates the contributions of NELC’s founders, Hans Peter Boerresen and Lars Olsen Skrefsrud, and missionary Paul Olaf Bodding.
Observance: Held with services, historical reflections, and community gatherings that celebrate the Church’s history and mission.

7. Santali Cultural Festivals

Many Santals, who form the majority of NELC’s membership, integrate their cultural celebrations like Sohrai (Harvest Festival) and Baha (Spring Festival) into their Christian faith. These festivals often include traditional music, dance, and community meals, fostering unity and cultural pride.

8. Church Anniversary Celebrations

Local congregations often celebrate their establishment anniversaries with thanksgiving services, feasts, and outreach programs to mark the milestones of their faith journey.
These festivals reflect the Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church’s (NELC) deep connection to its faith, culture, and community, making each occasion a testament to its enduring legacy and mission.

Conclusion

The Northern Evangelical Lutheran Church (NELC) is more than a religious institution—it is a beacon of hope, service, and inclusivity. Through its diverse membership, historical legacy, and commitment to social upliftment, the Church continues to shine brightly in North India and beyond, carrying forward the vision of its founders, Hans Peter Boerresen and Lars Olsen Skrefsrud, and the pioneering contributions of Paul Olaf Bodding.