The Council of Rengma Baptist Churches (CRBC) successfully concluded its 75th Anniversary Cum General Convention, held from December 12 to 14 at the CRBC Mission Centre, Zunpha. The three-day convention recorded full participation from all 43 churches under the CRBC, with an estimated 2,500 delegates, invitees, and participants attending the historic gathering.
The Convention was jointly hosted by six CRBC churches: Rengma Baptist Church Kohima, Dimapur; Rengma Baptist Church, Rengma Baptist Church Chümoukedima; Rengma Baptist Church Sovima; Rengma Baptist Church Padam Pukhuri, and Rengma Baptist Church Borlengri (Rengmagaon).
Held on the theme “God’s Enduring Faithfulness,” the Convention marked a significant milestone in the collective journey of the Rengma Baptist Church, reflecting on 75 years of organised Christian witness, church growth, and mission engagement.
The Convention formally opened with the presidential address delivered by Yhunthonglo Khing, President of the Council of Rengma Baptist Churches, who highlighted the faith journey of the Rengma Church, the responsibility of the present generation, and the need for unity, spiritual maturity, and faithful stewardship in the years ahead.
Worship services across the Convention featured messages from senior church leaders and theological educators. Speakers included Rev Haiwalo Apon, Executive Secretary, CRBC; Rev Prof Phanenmo Kath, Professor, Eastern Theological College, Jorhat; Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary, Nagaland Baptist Church Council; Dr Joshua Lorin, Principal, Oriental Theological Seminary, Bade; and Rev Andrew Semp, Finance Secretary, Nagaland Police Baptist Church Association. Each session reflected on aspects of God’s faithfulness, calling the Church to remembrance, renewal, and continued obedience in mission.
In addition to worship services, the Convention hosted focus group workshops for women, men, and youth, addressing family responsibility, leadership, and mental health in the contemporary context. Musical presentations, choir renditions, and the Men’s Hymnal Competition further enriched the Convention proceedings.
During the Convention, the Council presented two memorial awards recognizing long-standing Christian service. The Phenyuga Kemp Memorial Award, associated with missionary and evangelistic service, was conferred upon Rev Ram Prasad Subedi, while the Rev Viliezhu Kent Memorial Award, linked with pastoral leadership and church development, was awarded to Rev Shwelo Thong.
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The Council also acknowledged the contribution and partnership of Dr Kim In-soo, Director, Dandelion Community, and JC Kim, for their continued support and association with the ministry of the CRBC.
A significant publication milestone during the Convention was the release of “The Rengma Naga Christian Journey – 75th Anniversary Edition,” released by Rev Methalo Thono. The commemorative volume documents the historical development of Christianity among the Rengma people and the institutional journey of the CRBC.
Another major attraction was the exhibition titled “Legacy of Light,” which presented a curated historical timeline of Rengma Christianity and the CRBC. The exhibition also featured displays on the heritage of the Bentho and the Women Society Committee, highlighting traditional Rengma attire and cultural expressions, drawing wide interest from delegates and visitors.
At the closing session, it was announced that the next General Convention of the Council of Rengma Baptist Churches would be hosted by Sendenyu Baptist Church in 2030.
The Council expressed appreciation to all host churches, organisers, volunteers, worship teams, and participating churches for their coordinated efforts in ensuring the smooth and meaningful conduct of the Convention.
