Officials and participants pose for a photo during the conclusion of the three-day NEXTGEN Christian Education Leaders Conference on Wednesday at the NBCC Convention Centre in Kohima.
Kohima, Sepetmber 10 (MExN): The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), through its Christian Education Department, successfully concluded its three-day NEXTGEN Christian Education Leaders Conference on Wednesday at the NBCC Convention Centre. Held under the theme “Rethinking Discipleship for the Next Generation,” the event ran from September 8 to 10, drawing over 500 participants, including Christian education leaders, pastors, educators, and children's ministry workers.
Praise and worship during the conference were led by the Covenant Baptist Church Dimapur worship team, while the Youth Departments of Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church and Aoyimti Baptist Arogo Youth Ministry presented special dramas.
Bideno Kikon, Secretary of the Christian Education Department at NBCC, delivered the welcome address. Principal speakers included NBCC General Secretary Rev Dr Mar Pongener speaking on "Our Great Mission," Emeritus Professor Dr Alongla P Aier on "Re-discipling the Jesus Centered Life," and BMS World Mission Executive Director Dr Kethoser Aniu Kevichusa on "Discipleship and Disciple-Making". Dr Kevichusa also delivered the concluding message on September 10.
The conference featured a diverse panel of resource persons from various professional and theological backgrounds, addressing critical contemporary themes. Sessions covered topics such as biblical gender identity and sexual orientation amidst cultural shifts, intergenerational involvement in ministry, AI and the church, child protection, raising resilient children, and engaging children with special needs. Additionally, a basic sign language session was conducted by interpreter Eliza Chishi to promote inclusive ministries.
Evening worship services featured wide representation from churches and Baptist associations across Nagaland. The event concluded with words of gratitude from Shikalu J Sumi, NBCC Christian Education Coordinator, acknowledging participating departments, associations, delegates, and the Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship.
