Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary NBCC addressing the 33rd General Conference of Ao Theological Association at Mokokchung Baptist Church, Mokokchung village.
Morung Express News
Mokokchung village | May 24
More than 800 delegates from over 130 churches under ABAM are attending the 33rd General Conference of the Ao Theological Association (ATA), which commenced on the evening of May 23 at Mokokchung Baptist Church, Mokokchung village. The triennial conference is being held under the theme ‘Tsüngremer Nükmet Laishir’ (Theologian in the Sight of God).
Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), in his address to the Ao theologians, posed a critical question: are theologians today living in a way that diminishes the spiritual radiance of godly ministry? He urged them to embrace God’s grace by reaffirming their calling and strengthening their commitment to serve the Lord.
He emphasised that theologians (Laishir) are called to magnify God’s glory and that theological degrees are founded upon the Word of God. However, he warned that possessing degrees without deeply studying and understanding Scripture would result in a lack of spiritual blessing. He cautioned against the modern trend of relying on ready-made sermons, attributing it to spiritual laziness and shallow scriptural engagement, which ultimately leads to irrelevance in ministry and discourages church attendance.
Rev Dr Pongener asserted that when theologians immerse themselves in Scripture, such dedication has the power to transform the world, drawing believers back to the church.
He encouraged theologians to understand the foundational principles of the Church, recognize the uniqueness of Jesus Christ, and embrace Scripture to withstand adversity.
Acknowledging the digital age, he pointed out the vast potential to reach global audiences through technology. However, he stressed the importance of media etiquette, guiding principles, and precautions. With such understanding, Ao theologians can responsibly carry their divine calling beyond local boundaries.
He concluded by urging theologians to remain steadfast in prayer, immerse themselves in Scripture, and be willing to go in search of the flock. “Cleanse yourself before you attempt to transform someone else spiritually,” he exhorted.
In his address, Rev Jongpong, Pastor of Mopungchuket Baptist Arogo and President of ATA, shared that there are currently 3,928 Ao theologians across the world. He called this a blessing from God and encouraged theologians to bravely continue in the good work entrusted to them, remaining steadfast in truth and focused on God.
True theologians embody truth, courage and lifelong learning
The main speaker of the inaugural session was Rev Dr Limatula Longkumer, Registrar of the Senate of Serampore College, who emphasised that theologians must embody more than academic qualifications—they must possess spiritual integrity, moral strength, and vision.
She described theologians as individuals chosen by God, who must reflect divine values such as truthfulness, courage, and lifelong dedication to learning. Cautioning against valuing degrees over understanding, she urged theological students to pursue education with purpose and discernment, noting that the type of institution attended can deeply shape one’s ministry.
She encouraged young theologians to strive with commitment, assuring them that such perseverance will lead to meaningful leadership in the Church.
Other keynote speakers over the course of the three-day conference, which will continue until May 25, include Rev Sentisashi Aier, Senior Pastor of KABA; Rev Kilang Jamir, Dimapur; and Rev Talijungla, Associate Pastor (Women), Ungma Baptist Arogo.
Highlights of the conference include seminars on “LGBTQI+” and “Baptist Tamendakdak aser Tanü Tendak” on Day 2, talent presentations, open-air worship, devotionals, the presentation of the Kijungluba Lifetime Ministerial Award and the nomination of a new team of ATA office bearers.
