A book titled ‘Tasütait Tamang Walunir: Rev R Teka Taküm Otsü’ (Bold Spiritual Leader, Reverend R Teka’s Autobiography) was formally released by the Ao Baptist Church Council (ABAM) Executive Secretary, Rev Prof Dr Mar Pongener, at Kapayong (Rev Teka’s residence) on October 23, in the presence of family, friends, church leaders, and well-wishers. Incidentally, October 23 also marked the 80th birth anniversary of the author, Rev R Teka, who served for twenty-seven years as Pastor of Impur Baptist Church (ABAM Mission Centre).
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 performed in the Reverend’s life and in the lives of others while serving Him.
The ABAM Executive Secretary, Rev Prof Mar Pongener, speaking at the program, said that eighty years has a special reference in the Bible, analogous to the oak tree. He remarked that the Reverend’s long life of eighty years is a testament to God’s faithfulness, as the Bible clearly states that the Lord will keep and bless those who love and serve Him. In the same vein, Pongener noted that while many live to the age of eighty and beyond, God’s faithfulness does not come automatically; one needs to be humble and faithful before God to receive His blessings. Therefore, taking the occasion, he urged the gathering to grow closer to God so that their lives would be meaningful and bear testimony to others.
The author, Rev R Teka, while speaking about the book, narrated his experiences serving in Tuensang from the seventies to the early nineties. He shared the trials and tribulations he faced during those years and how God, in His everlasting grace, kept and blessed him throughout. He hoped that the book would serve as an inspiration for the faithful and be a blessing for all.
The program was chaired by the Associate Pastor of Sungkomen Baptist Church, Matsung Longkumer, while Pastor Dr Lolen Imchen 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 provided a brief exposition about the book. Contemporaries of Rev R Teka, including retired church leaders, also spoke at the program and paid rich tributes to the retired pastor.