The Council of Rengma Baptist Churches (CRBC) successfully concluded its 75th Anniversary Cum General Convention from December 12 to 14, 2025, at the CRBC Mission Centre in Zunpha, Tseminyu. The three-day event saw full participation from all 43 churches under the CRBC, with approximately 2,500 delegates, invitees, and participants attending the historic gathering.
The Convention was jointly hosted by six CRBC churches, including 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). The event was held under the theme “God’s Enduring Faithfulness,” marking an important milestone in the Rengma Baptist Church’s 75 years of organized Christian witness, church growth, and mission engagement.
The Convention formally opened with the Presidential Address by Mr. Yhunthonglo Khing, President of the CRBC. He reflected on the faith journey of the Rengma Church and emphasized the responsibility of the present generation, calling for unity, spiritual maturity, and faithful stewardship in the years ahead.
Throughout the Convention, worship services featured messages from senior church leaders and theological educators. Notable speakers included Rev Haiwalo Apon, Executive Secretary, CRBC; Rev Prof Phanenmo Kath, Professor at Eastern Theological College, Jorhat; Rev Dr Mar Pongener, General Secretary of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council; Dr Joshua Lorin, Principal of Oriental Theological Seminary, Bade; and Rev Andrew Semp, Finance Secretary of the Nagaland Police Baptist Church Association. Their messages centered on God’s faithfulness, calling the Church to remembrance, renewal, and ongoing obedience in mission.
The Convention also hosted focus group workshops for women, men, and youth that addressed family responsibility, leadership, and mental health in today’s context. Musical presentations, choir performances, and the Men’s Hymnal Competition added to the richness of the event.
During the Convention, the CRBC presented two memorial awards recognizing long-standing Christian service. The Phenyuga Kemp Memorial Award for missionary and evangelistic service was awarded to Rev. Ram Prasad Subedi, while the Rev. Viliezhu Kent Memorial Award, linked to pastoral leadership and church development, was conferred upon Rev. Shwelo Thong.
The Council acknowledged the continued support and partnership of Dr Kim In-soo, Director of Dandelion Community, and JC Kim for their association with the CRBC ministry.
A notable highlight was the release of “The Rengma Naga Christian Journey – 75th Anniversary Edition” by Rev Methalo Thono. This commemorative volume documents the historical development of Christianity among the Rengma people and the institutional journey of the CRBC.
An exhibition titled “Legacy of Light” was also a major attraction. It presented a curated historical timeline of Rengma Christianity and the CRBC, alongside displays on the heritage of the Bentho and the Women Society Committee. The exhibition featured traditional Rengma attire and cultural expressions, drawing significant interest from delegates and visitors.
At the closing session, it was announced that the next General Convention of the Council of Rengma Baptist Churches will be hosted by Sendenyu Baptist Church in 2030. The Council expressed appreciation to all host churches, organizers, volunteers, worship teams, and participating churches for their efforts in ensuring the successful conduct of the Convention.
