SHILLONG: The Sngi Institute of Tribal Studies (SITS) of Sacred Heart Theological College, Mawlai organised a seminar on Father Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh on the eve of his first death anniversary on Saturday.
Fr Sngi breathed his last after a brief illness on May 28, 2016 at Nazareth Hospital. The seminar focused on the services rendered by Fr. Sngi to the indigenous community. The seminar paid tribute to the priest who was much loved by the people.
Besides, Fr Sylvanus Sngi Memorial Hall was named after the late spiritual leader at the college.
Speaking as the chief guest on the occasion, Pynthorumkhrah MLA AL Hek said that Fr Sngi has fulfilled his duties and responsibilities towards the people.
Hek recalled that when he met Fr. Sngi, his thinking was ‘crystal clear’ even at the ripe age of 96.
As far as transformation of society is concerned, Hek said that Fr Sngi did his best to bring a better social life.
Hek reminded people about the role that Fr Sngi played in active politics.
He said, “I used to discuss politics with him. Back in 1978, he played a role in the coalition politics and formed the ‘Three Flag Government.”
It may be recalled that Fr Sngi was instrumental in formation of the experimental ‘Three Flag Government’ supported mainly by three parties, All-Party Hill Leaders’ Conference (APHLC with 16 MLAs), Hill State People’s Democratic Party (HSPDP-14), and Peoples’ Demands Implementation Committee ( PDIC-2).
The coalition was decided in his presence and Rev. W Manner from the Presbyterian Church, who prayed for a strong coalition government. The seminar was a daylong programme with five sessions and interactions. The inaugural programme was marked with songs by choral evangelists. On the occasion, Hek released a book, “Khasei khasai” written by Snenglem A. Kurbah.
On May 19, Fr Sngi’s mortal remains were transferred from Laitumkhrah Catholic Cemetery to Sacred Heart College campus in Mawlai. A mausoleum has been constructed and on his first death anniversary, people are expected to turn up to pay homage at his mausoleum.
