The autobiography of Reverend R. Teka, the Pastor of Impur Baptist Church (ABMA Mission Centre), was formally released on 23rd October 2024 by Rev. Prof. Dr. Mar Pongener, Ao Baptist Church Council (ABAM) Executive Secretary. The book is titled ‘Tasütait Tamang Walunir Rev. R. Teka Taküm Otsü” (Bold Spiritual Leader, Reverend R. Teka’s Autobiography).
A press release informed that the event was organized on the 80th birth anniversary of the author who has served for twenty-seven years are Pastor of Impur Baptist Church (ABMA Mission Centre) in the presence of family, friends, church leaders and well-wishers.
The autobiography chronicles the life of Rev Teka, his service to God and the faithful as a missionary and Minister, and his core understanding of God, His words, His works and the Miracles that the Lord did in the Reverend’s life and others while serving the Lord, it added.
Speaking at the programme Rev. Prof Mar Pongener said that eighty years has a special reference in the Bible analogous with the Oak tree. He said that the Reverend’s long life of eighty years is a testament of God’s faithfulness as the Bible clearly says that the Lord will keep and bless those who love and serve Him. In the same vein, Pongener said that there are many who live up to the age of eighty and more, but God’s faithfulness does not come automatically as one need to be humble and faithful before God to get His blessings. Therefore, taking the occasion, he urged the gathering to get closer with God so that one’s life would be a meaningful one and bear testimony to the people.
The author, Rev R. Teka, while speaking about the book, narrated his experiences while serving in Tuensang during from the seventies till early nineties. He narrated about the trials and tribulations he faced during those yesteryears and how God, in His everlasting grace, kept and blessed him throughout the years. He hoped that the book would serve as an inspiration for the faithful and be a blessing for all.
The programme was chaired by Matsung Longkumer, Associate Pastor of Sungkomen Baptist Church, while Dr. Lolen Imchen, Pastor of Mangmetong Baptist Church, invoked God’s blessings.
A special number was presented by well-known singer Tiameren Jamir of Impur while grandchildren Akumjungla and Orem recited an Ode to Reverend R. Teka. Er T Imlisunep Ao, a son of Rev Teka, welcomed the gathering while Lanu Imchen gave a brief exposition about the book. Contemporaries of Rev R Teka, retired church leaders, also spoke at the programme and paid rich tributes to the retired pastor.
