Sumi Baptist Convention Silver Jubilee celebrations underway
Morung Express News
Dimapur | October 14
A three-day Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Sumi Baptist Convention (SBC), which is a conglomeration of three Sumi Baptist Churches associations, namely; Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (SBAK), Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (SABAK) and Western Sumi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (WSBAK) got underway on October 14 at Trinity Theological College, Thahekhu.
Exhorting a galaxy of Church leaders from the three associations, MLA & Chairman NIDC Ltd, Tovihoto Ayemi made a clarion call for working in unity among the leaders and different Church associations as they were all working in the Lord’s vineyard.
“All the three Sumi churches associations use the same Bible, hymn book and Pastors’ Handbook and so it would be an advantage if we could all work together as one for the extension of God’s kingdom,” he said.
Tracing back the history of Sumi Christianity to more than 100 years, he also called for looking within oneself whether one has matured spiritually in tandem with the coming of Christianity.
Tovihoto challenged the leaders to go back to their respective Churches and areas and spread the message of unity. He also urged them to work towards achieving 100% Christianity among the Sumi community.
Tovihoto said that jubilee was an opportune time for reconciliation of any misunderstandings and also a time to forgive one another. He also said it was time to look back in gratitude to the pioneers.
He noted that TTC Thahekhu was about to host the convocation of the Senate of Serampore College (University) and said it was an achievement for the College to host a prestigious occasion.
In his sermon, Executive Secretary of WSBAK, Rev. Dr. Hevukhu Achumi spoke about sharing of blessings from God and advocated assistance and support to smaller Churches by the bigger Churches. He talked about positive unity among different sections of the people and urged pastors to take the lead in speaking the truth.
“Many pastors do not speak the truth anymore; then how do we expect social and spiritual transformation?” he queried. He quoted Ephesians 4:13 and Romans 13:8 from the Bible and emphasized on serving together and loving one another.
Earlier, Rev. Dr. Hevukhu also unveiled the jubilee monolith. During the programme, Sr. Pastor, Thilixu Baptist Church, Rev. Dr. Yehevi Zhimo released the jubilee souvenir. The Convention will culminate on Sunday afternoon.
