Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima, celebrated its Centenary Jubilee on the theme “Faithful Through the Ages” on November 8 at SBCK, Daklane, Kohima.
Rev Dr Khehovi A Shohe, Director, SBC, who spoke on the Jubilee theme emphasized that God is a dependable God. In today’s context, where distrust often exists even among friends and families, he reminded the congregation that God remains steadfast and trustworthy.
He encouraged members to reflect on God’s grace and faithfulness, reminding them that they are truly blessed to witness this historic Centenary celebration. Just as God blessed the Israelites through generations, he said, the church too has been abundantly blessed throughout the century. He urged everyone never to forget God’s goodness but to continually thank Him for His unfailing blessings.
Shohe further noted that people often forget to express gratitude for God’s provisions and encouraged the congregation to remain thankful in all circumstances.
“Whatever we do and wherever we are,” he said, “our hearts should carry a missionary spirit and then we will be blessed by God.”
Citing the example of Billy Graham, who humbly asked “Why me?” despite being a farmer’s son, Rev. Dr. Shohe illustrated how God chooses ordinary people to fulfill His divine purposes. He reminded that while many were unable to witness this Jubilee, those present should be deeply thankful to God for His grace and for enabling them and their families to be part of this blessed occasion.
Delivering the Jubilee greetings, Y Kikheto Sema, Chairman of the Centenary Planning Board, briefly shared the remarkable journey of how the Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima, was established and how it has grown over the past hundred years to reach this historic milestone of celebrating its Centenary.
He highlighted the unwavering faith and dedication of the pioneers who laid the foundation of the church through prayer, sacrifice, and unity, despite the challenges of their time.
He expressed that the Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima, has always been a church with a clear vision, rooted in spirituality, committed to promoting peace, and dedicated to carrying forward the mission of Christ. He emphasized that throughout the decades, the church has continued to nurture believers in faith, serve the community, and spread the message of love and reconciliation.
Kikheto further encouraged the congregation to uphold this legacy of faith and continue to be a beacon of hope and spiritual strength for generations to come, staying true to the vision of “Spirituality, Peace, and Mission” that has guided the church through a century of God’s faithfulness.
Earlier in the programme, Rev Dr Khehovi A Shohe unveiled the Centenary Jubilee Monolith at the church premises, while Dr I Lozhevi Sema released the Jubilee Souvenir. To mark the Centenary celebration, Rev Dr Yehevi Jimo, Senior Pastor, TVBC, and Translator, unveiled the 2nd edition of the new revised Sumi Bible.
Special songs were presented by the Khedi Baptist Church, Kohima, and the Centenary Jubilee Youth Choir enriched the spirit of thanksgiving and celebration.
The Jubilee celebration is underway two days from 8th-9th November 2025, featuring four speakers, Rev Dr Khehovi A. Shohe, Director, SBC; Rev Kughato K Chophi, Executive Secretary, SBAK Nito Mount; Rev Dr Daniel Chishi, Executive Secretary, SBAK Aizuto; and Khekavi K. Yeptho, Pastor, SBCK.
Jubilee greetings will also be shared by Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary, NBCC; Rev Devanand Kadariya, General Secretary, NBCC Nepal; and Hosheto Achumi, former Chairman, Board of Deacons, SBCK.
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Brief History of Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima
As early as 1907, Sumi Christians held fellowship at the Kohima Mission Church, and in 1921, with permission from missionary, JE Tanquist, they established their own congregation. In 1925, the Sumi Baptist Church was formally founded at Daklane, Kohima.
Initially, fellowship gatherings were held at the residence of Kiyeho, with Evangelist Zhapuzalie Angami serving as the first pastor. Later, Rev GW Supplee, an American missionary, sought permission from the then Deputy Commissioner of Kohima, JH Hutton, for a suitable location to build a church. Consequently, the Daklane area was allotted, and the church was constructed in 1928.
During the British rule, the area was occupied by Dak carriers, and many Sumis served in that role for British officers. In 1928, the present site was officially given to the Sumi community for the church’s construction. Although no formal documents were issued, a metal token was presented as a symbolic authorization.
A budget of ₹1,000 was allocated for the construction, with contributions coming not only from the Sumi community but also from the Ao, Lotha, Rengma, Garo, and believers from Upper Assam. The first church building was completed in 1932 and was named the Daklane Church.
During World War II, when the Japanese forces entered Kohima, many residents fled to their villages. After the war ended, they returned in 1944, and the damaged church was rebuilt the same year, marking the resumption of regular fellowship. The second church building was constructed in 1968, while the present structure was inaugurated in 2014.
