Mokokchung, 18 April (MTNews): Nagaland Bible College (NBC), Mokokchung, celebrated its 43rd Graduation Service at Discovery Hall, NBC, on Thursday, 18 April 2024, with Rev Kerstin Olsson, Chairman of the Pentecostal Church Sweden, as the convocation speaker.
A total of 30 students graduated: eleven with a Bachelor of Theology, five with a Bachelor of Ministry, six with a Master of Divinity, two with a Master of Ministry, and five with a degree in Intercultural Studies.
Rev Kerstin Olsson congratulated the graduates and urged them never to forget their Bible, stating, “That is God’s spoken word; never forget to read it.” She encouraged the graduates to keep it close to their hearts, emphasizing that the Bible is the source of the living word.
She emphasized servitude and discipleship, adding, “It is only when we trust Jesus that we can go out and make disciples; it is only when we listen to His personal call for us, for our lives.” She further encouraged the students to learn from Jesus. She concluded her address with a Bible verse from the book of John 15:16: “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.”
Dr Sentila Ao, Principal of Nagaland Bible College, highlighted the vision of the Institute of Intercultural Studies, stating that it equips students with the proper knowledge to preach the gospel in cross-cultural missions. She added that the IIS course was introduced during the lockdown period, and this year marked the graduation of its third batch.
The conferring of degrees and commissioning of graduates was presented by Dr Sentila Ao while Sam Santhosh Kumar, Academic Dean, presented the academic awards.
Earlier in the program, Lima Lemtur led the proceedings. The welcome address was delivered by Mayangchaba Ao, Vice Principal, followed by greetings from Enar Olsson of Sweden and Dr Cindy Walker of the USA. The valedictory speech was delivered by Liso Aier.
The Crossroad Christian Ministry, Mokokchung Town, and the Graduating Class presented a special musical number.
