K Tokugha Sukhalu, IAS (Retd), MLA and Advisor, and Rev Dr Hevukhu Achumi, Founder Principal of Academy for Theology and Mission, Thilixu Village, address the congregation during the centenary celebration of Sheyipu Baptist Church in Zunheboto on April 26.
Morung Express News
Zunheboto | April 26
Sheyipu Baptist Church celebrated 100 years of Christianity (1926–2026) with a jubilee programme on April 26 under the theme “Living out maturing Christian faith,” locally translated as “Tekhoive Keu Küpülü Pepheni” based on Ephesians 4:15–16.
The event brought together believers, church leaders and dignitaries for a gathering marked by thanksgiving, reflection and reaffirmation of faith.
K Tokugha Sukhalu, IAS (Retd), MLA and Advisor for Food and Civil Supplies, Legal Metrology and Consumer Protection, and Chairman of the Urban Local Bodies and Village Council Committee, Government of Nagaland, attended as the special guest and delivered the greetings message.
In his address, Sukhalu urged the gathering to remember their roots and honour their forefathers. He highlighted the contributions of the late Hezukhu in the establishment of Zunheboto district headquarters.
He expressed concern over the declining population in Zunheboto due to migration to metropolitan cities despite the presence of over 180 Sumi villages in the western areas, and stressed the importance of the upcoming 2026 Census, calling for collective responsibility.
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On education, he pointed to low student enrolment in several Sumi-inhabited areas but appreciated recent academic achievements, including two HSLC toppers and a Sumi MIL topper under the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE).
Sukhalu also noted that many officers hail from ENPO areas, attributing it to a strong emphasis on education. He encouraged the younger generation to prioritise academic excellence, stating that true pride lies in the achievements of one’s children rather than material wealth.
Reflecting on his 35 years of service, he said he had not initially envisioned entering politics and highlighted the changing landscape of government employment, noting that even Grade-IV posts have become increasingly difficult to secure due to saturation and high expenditure on salaries.
He urged students to work diligently and avoid distractions from social media, encouraging families to invest more in education. He cited the example of IPS officer Viku L. Achumi for his focused approach to studies.
The main speaker, Rev Dr Hevukhu Achumi, Founder Principal of the Academy for Theology and Mission, Thilixu Village, spoke on the significance of Jubilee, describing it as a Biblical concept, a celebration of joy and a period of spiritual renewal and transformation.
Sharing his testimony, he said he had never been hospitalised in his 49 years of service and credited divine protection for his well-being. He emphasised that maturity in Christian faith is reflected through steadfastness in adversity, compassion, joy and constant prayer.
Earlier, the programme was chaired by Dr Nagaho K Zhimomi, Pastor of Rotomi Baptist Church. Invocation and hymn were led by Rev Toheshe Chishi, Pastor of Tokiye Town Baptist Church, while responsive reading was led by Kitovi V Zhimo, Pastor of Tohoi Village Baptist Church. A jubilee poem was recited by Toli L Zhimo.
Necrology prayer was offered by Khekavi K Yeptho, Pastor of Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima. The programme also featured songs by the Jubilee Choir and Sukhalu Baptist Church. Bible reading was led by Marykali A Yeptho, a Sunday School teacher.
The speaker’s message was followed by a benediction prayer by Kaholi Zhimo, Prayer Convenor. The celebration concluded with a jubilee feast, marking a century of faith, unity and spiritual growth.
