Mopungchuket Baptist Church celebrated its quasquicentennial anniversary on December 27 and 28, 2025, marking 125 years of its existence (1900 – 2025). The anniversary was observed under the theme “Khrista Ajanga Yimjung,” or “Peace Through Christ.”
The quasquicentennial celebration commenced on December 27 with the unveiling of a monolith by Rev Dr Wati Aier, Emeritus Professor of Constructive Theology and Philosophy at Oriental Theological Seminary and Convenor, Forum for Naga Reconciliation.
The celebration featured speakers including Rev Temsü Jamir, Executive Secretary of ABAM Impur; Dr Sashinungla Pongen, Associate Professor at Oriental Theological Seminary; and Rev Dr A Tali Ao, Academic Dean of Clark Theological College, Aolijen.
During the first day’s worship service, jubilee openings, greetings, exhortations and choir presentations were conducted. Dr Sashinungla Pongen, in her sermon titled “Khrista Den Küm 125” or “125 Years with Christ,” spoke on God’s covenant faithfulness and reminded the congregation of the need for continued commitment to walking with God. Her message was centred on the Book of Jeremiah.
The second day of the celebration included exhortations, jubilee greetings, felicitations, and the theme message. Rev Temsü Jamir, speaking on the theme quasquicentennial theme, said jubilee is not a human plan but takes place according to God’s purpose and timing. He described jubilee as a time of reflection, forgiveness and responsibility, and urged the church to remain active in service.
During the felicitation program, individuals were honoured for their contributions in three categories. In the first category, Rev Dr Wati Aier and T Ajungla Jamir, Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations in Geneva, were felicitated for their services.
The second category recognized pastors who have served Mopungchuket Baptist Arogo for 25 years or more, including Rev Supong Aier from 1951 to 1976, Rev Subo Jamir from 1976 to 2000 and Rev Jongpong from 2000 to 2025.
The third category honored pastors who served the church since its early years, including Charles Zellie from 1908 to 1910, Lolentsüngba during multiple periods between 1911 and 1924, Lendipong from 1913 to 1914, Kümsangkokba from 1925 to 1930, Temrepchiba from 1931 to 1937, and Noktsüngba from 1948 to 1950.
Pastors and representatives from Kubolong, Süngratsü, Aosüngküm, Impur, Aoyimküm, Khar, Longjang, Chami, Longpa and Longjang Compound also delivered jubilee greetings.
The final worship service on December 28 was addressed by Rev Dr A Tali Ao on the theme “Nenok Kü Kulitem,” or “You Are My Witnesses.” The closing presentation of the celebration was made by Mopungchuket Ait Laishir Telongjem (MALT), Kohima.
The quasquicentennial observance brought together church members, natives of Mopungchuket from far and near, inlaws and well wishers as Mopungchuket Baptist Arogo reflected on its journey and look ahead towards its 150th anniversary.
