The 59th Church Leadership Fellowship under SBAK Nito Mount began at Viyixe Baptist Church on November 18, with a three-day programme centered on the theme “A Model Servant of God.” Y Kikheto Sema, IAS, Principal Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, attended as the special invitee and delivered a keynote address urging churches to align spiritual mission with social responsibility.
Recalling his involvement with SBAK since 1991, Sema said he had “urged churches to practice prudent financial management” and observed that concerns he raised decades ago “have now become a visible reality.” He warned against denominational exclusivity and highlighted the contribution of Catholic and Baptist institutions in shaping education in Nagaland.
Emphasizing the disparity between large and rural churches, Sema called on well-resourced congregations in urban centers to support smaller ones. He expressed concern over the rising use of drugs among youth and encouraged churches to “actively engage with affected individuals and communities.” He also questioned church expenditure on vehicles and conferences, asking if such investments align with core missions.
The event also featured a sermon by Mughalu Swu, Chairman of the Church Leaders Fellowship, and a special song presented by the pastoral staff of Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima.