A section of the congregation of Sümi Baptist Church Kohima during the pre-centenary celebration on October 26.
KOHIMA, October 26 (MExN): The Sümi Baptist Church Kohima (SBCK) observed a significant pre-centenary celebration on Sunday, marking a major milestone ahead of its centenary scheduled for November 8–9. The occasion was held to honour the pastors, deacons, and missionaries whose service and leadership have guided the church since its establishment in 1928.
A highlight of the programme was the formal recognition of 31 pastors who have served the church from its founding to the present day. Alongside the pastors, the church also honoured individuals who have served as Chairmen of the Board of Deacons for their role in maintaining the church’s material welfare, administrative efficiency, and spiritual well-being.
Former Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Kughazhe Yepthomi, in his address, stated that SBCK has always stood on the principle of “Unwavering Unity.” He said this internal solidarity was not merely aspirational but foundational to the church’s endurance through historical challenges. Yepthomi also reflected on the church’s early history, recalling the establishment of the Dak Lane ward during the British era and the progress of the locality since then.
The programme was conducted under the stewardship of Dr Kitoshi Zhimo, Associate Pastor, who led the day’s proceedings with solemnity. The service featured special songs from Male Voice, True Vine, Lokivi Lejo, and Living Witness, combining worship and reflection. Dr Zhimo led the morning service, while Heshito Shohe officiated the evening session.
Delivering the morning message, Rev. Dr Yehevi Jimo centred his sermon on Hebrews 4:12, quoting, “For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” He emphasized the need for believers to “harvest” the spiritual benefits of the biblical concept of Jubilee, describing the Word of God as a tool for deep personal transformation and spiritual restoration.
In the evening service, Rev. Dr Hotokhu Zhimo, former Acting Pastor and Missionary of SBCK, exhorted the missionaries sponsored by the church to remain steadfast in their calling. He also encouraged the congregation to continue supporting mission work.
The event included a reflection by former Chairman of the Board of Deacons, Shivito Wotsa, who recounted the church’s response to the Great Commission. He highlighted SBCK’s role in establishing the first Baptist Church in Nepal, calling it a milestone achievement in the church’s mission outreach.
During the celebration, SBCK-sponsored missionaries were also formally honoured for their commitment and contribution to the ministry.
