Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM), Ao Senden, and Mokokchung Ao Officers' Telungjem (MAOT) durng the first-ever interface meeting at Impur on August 26.
Form six committees to tackle key challenges
Impur, August 27 (MExN): Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM), Ao Senden, and Mokokchung Ao Officers' Telungjem (MAOT) held their first-ever interface meeting at Impur on August 26.
This meeting aimed to develop strategies to transform the Aos overall and ABAM specifically into a comprehensive skill development community and center. The meeting focused on moving beyond traditional approaches to ministry and creating an organic resource that provides compelling reasons for fostering a healthy community.
“Recognizing the collective strength of the three apex bodies to establish a credentialed ministry and community, ABAM organised this interface meeting at Impur and is eager to see a holistic ministry that addresses the needs of the people,” stated in a press release.
Rev Temsü Jamir, Executive Secretary of ABAM, commended the Ao Senden for hosting a purposeful programme at Ungma on August 23, 2025, aimed at fostering unity among all Nagas and wished for an expedited result.
Meanwhile, he drew an analogy from the Old Testament, highlighting the duties of elders and councils in safeguarding the people from enemies, promoting peace, and serving God. He emphasised that such responsibilities are crucial in today's context. However, he expressed concern that, unfortunately, not many leaders attend worship services today.
Rev Temsu highlighted that the election and the ongoing hostility between clans are two significant challenges facing the Aos today, making it urgent to find solutions. He stated that the covenantal oath we practice, symbolized by the “piercing of spears,” (Nülak asongba) represents our commitment to truth and has been an important part of our identity.
In today’s context, where does truth stand? Considering these factors, he presented nine key concerns to reflect upon for developing a nurturing community that fosters a convivial environment. These concerns are, ‘How does Ao define revival? Address issues like depopulation, migration to urban areas, the decline of the native language, a corrupt election system, the status of Impur Christian Hospital, establishing an educational museum at Impur, transforming the ABAM resource center in Kangtsüng into a skill development center and an educational eco tourism resort, and creating a Christian entrepreneurship curriculum to promote youth self-reliance.’
After considering these concerns, six committees have been established to conduct further studies and will meet on October 16 and 17, 2025, to present their findings.
The presidents of Ao Senden and MAOT expressed gratitude for the interface meeting and voiced their concerns about enhancing the resourcefulness and collaboration between Aos and ABAM.
A total of 25 members from the three organizations attended the meeting.
