Dimapur, August 5 (MExN): The Yimkhiung Baptist Borü Amukhungto (YBBA) has expressed deep grief over the passing of Rev K Hopongkiu, one of the pioneering Christian missionaries among the Yimkhiung community and a founding pillar of the Yimkhiung Baptist churches.
In a condolence message issued on Wednesday, the YBBA said Rev. Hopongkiu passed away in the early hours of August 4 at Zion Hospital, Dimapur. He was 108.
The association described him as one of the pioneering torchbearers of the Gospel among the Yimkhiung people whose missionary work and leadership played a pivotal role in bringing Yimkhiung Baptist churches together under a common association.
Travelling on foot from village to village, he proclaimed the Christian faith, nurtured believers and devoted his life to strengthening the church, the statement said.
Rev Hopongkiu served in several ministerial capacities during his lifetime. He was pastor of Thoktsur Baptist Church (1955), Kiutsükiur Baptist Church (1958), Shamator Town Baptist Church (1961-62), Anahtongre Baptist Church (1964-66), Zaonger Baptist Church (1991-2000) and Chessore Town Baptist Church (2002-03).
He also served as Evangelist of the Yimkhiung Baptist Borü Amukhungto during 1965-69 and in 1981, Field Director from 1967 to 1969, Recording Secretary from 1970 to 1980 and Evangelism Director (Mission Secretary) from 1981 to 1990. He later served as Home Evangelist of Shamator Town Baptist Church from 2005 to 2009 and continued as Kiutsükiur Borü "At Large Missionary" from 2010 until his death.
According to the YBBA, Rev Hopongkiu was ordained as a Reverend on March 1, 1981, and remained committed to Christian ministry throughout his life.
The association said his life exemplified humble service, unwavering faith and sacrificial leadership, adding that his ministry would continue to inspire future generations.
The YBBA conveyed its condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for strength and comfort for them during their time of grief.
