Homecoming celebration for OTS alumni held
Morung Express News
Dimapur | November 25
To mark 25 years of Oriental Theological Seminary, an alumni get-together was convened today prior to the anniversary gala celebration later in the evening.
Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS), a Graduate institution of higher learning is committed to nurture Christian leaders for the postmodern world as well as developing contexts towards intellectual proficiency, theological coherence, and practical efficiency.
Welcoming the alumni from the first batch of 1996 to the current graduating batch of 2016, Dr James Kalong, Academic Dean & Associate Professor of New Testament Interpretation, remarked, “Today we see the OTS alumni flourishing all over the world. We feel encouraged and proud of everyone at OTS.” He welcomed the OTS family, past and present, and mentioned that the number of enrolments at OTS reached maximum this year with 104 students.
Rev Dr Wati Aier, Principal and Professor of Constructive Theology and Philosophy expressed pride that OTS alumni are working in different capacities in various parts of the world. “Without a doubt I say this, alongside the vision of OTS you are the pioneers in creating the history of OTS. Our common goal is to do God’s work, and our roles vary widely but each one of you fills an important and meaningful mosaic that forms OTS,” he stated and urged the alumni “that we are ready to usher in a paradigm shift in theological education vis a vis Gods mission of the Church.”
Before the celebration proceedings, Thujoi Rhakho, Batch of 2014, who is currently the Youth Director at Police Church 5th NAP Phek, reminisced about how it was not an easy walk to finish his course at OTS. He attested that there is no compromise in the educational structure at OTS and every student had to be actively involved and excel in all fields, both academic and spiritual. He added, “It was only after graduating from OTS I really appreciated the curricula that was drilled and instilled in us. I realized that if you don’t excel in academic, it is very difficult to be effective in ministry and vice versa.”
Neingusienuo Kruneilie, who is currently doing her MTh studies in Trinity Theological College, Singapore, also shared similar sentiments and remarked, “OTS had successfully managed to provide a very holistic course.” A lesson she took away from her interactions with the Principal of OTS, she said, was to balance her knowledge with simple living. “Something about Rev Dr Wati Aier is the fact that he is an intellect but chooses to remain humble and simple, and I really admire that about him as he continues to educate and inspire all of us,” she said.
Sashi Jamir, currently a faculty member at OTS, also remembered how his theological journey really began at OTS. “It has shaped and given me all the ingredients required to go for my further studies in the US and to be on par with students from all over the world,” he stated, adding “the vision of OTS is special. For me, the vision is to shape young Nagas and help define their identity. This is not only in their personal relationship with God but with their own people and culture.”
Mathiuthonlu, having studied and then later worked as a Librarian till 2015, also defined her journey with OTS as one of “great discovery.” “I’m glad I’ve been able to witness great leadership skills and experience a place of good learning. I work as Mission Secretary to the RBCA and I always share my positive experiences with other Church leaders.” She concluded by sharing a statement, which was felt across the celebration today, “There is always a feeling of great joy when I come back here.”
The alumni get-together was a indeed a reflection and reaffirmation of OTS’s desire to recognize and fulfill the aspirations represented by the students, as it affirms their varied callings to be pastors, mission leaders, educators, counselors, community workers, and social activists.
