A view of the congregation for the SBAK revival.
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | January 19
The Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kukhakulu (SBAK) Nito Mount held its 95th Xükithe Hoho (Revival Hour) from January 17 to 19 at the Yezami Baptist Church in Zunheboto District, under the theme “Kuqhano Shiqheni”- Nehemiah 2:18. The event saw a gathering of believers and reflected the rich spiritual history of the Sumi Naga community.
Rev. Kughato K. Chophy, Executive Secretary of SBAK Nito Mount, and Vihoto H. Awomi, Secretary of the Department of Ministry and Evangelism SBAK Nito Mount, served as the main speakers. The service was directed by Katoli V. Sumi, Secretary of the Department of Women’s Ministry SBAK, and Hotolu Katty, Pastor of Satakha Town Baptist Church. Rev. Vikuto P. Shohe, Secretary of the Department of Children Ministry SBAK, served as the counselor director.
The revival began with a heartfelt welcome address by Akukau Hovishe Arkha, Akukau (GB) of Yezami Village, who shared his personal life testimony and the history of the revival movement within the Sumi community. Arkha highlighted the profound spiritual renewal experienced by the Sumi Naga people since the introduction of the revival spirit in 1976. The movement began with the Sumi people residing in Mokokchung Sokhui, Tovishe, and spread to Zunheboto through the efforts of Yehevi HA.
A pivotal event in the revival movement occurred from November 21 to 24, 1979, in Shena, where lives were transformed, and Tsaviphe Tukuhupu Kumula was first introduced. The visit of Rev. Paul Kalf Man to Dimapur helped establish the United Revival Fellowship (URF), further uniting the community in faith. Arkha also emphasized the formation of 122 new villages from Yezami, and in February 1980, the Revival Hour was held in Yezami, marking the regular spiritual gatherings that would continue to impact the Sumi community.
According to Elikali Assumi, Steward Director, the three-day event saw the participation of 4,050 delegates from 126 churches. The next SBAK annual Revival Hour will be held at Shena New Baptist Church, continuing the tradition of spiritual renewal and community unity.
