The Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Akukuhou Kuqhakulu (SABAK) and the Khonoma Baptist Church (KBC) celebrated a Friendship Fellowship at KBC on May 25.
The objective of the fellowship was to renew the relationship between the Aphuyemi people and Khonoma people, educate the younger generation on their shared history, and strengthen the spiritual legacy and bond between the two people.
Rev Dr Hotokhu P Zhimomi, Secretary, Mission & Evangelism, SABAK shared about the history and significance of Khonoma citizens who preached the gospel in Sumi Aphuyemi areas.
He made special mention of Rev Megoseiso Savino and Janikho, who came to Chishilimi village in 1945, served at the Sub-Mission Centre and elaborated on the shared history between the different villages in Pughoboto area and Khonoma village.
Speaking during the occasion, Y Vikheho Swu, former minister and grandson of Kushe, one of the first Christian converts from Chishilimi village, also iterated the contributions of Khonoma citizens in Pughoboto area and thanked the Khonoma people on behalf of the Sumi Aphuyemi people, while expressing his wishes and prayers for a deeper understanding and collaboration between the Aphuyemi people and Khonoma people.
Nikato Swu, GB from Ighanumi Village and a son-in-law of Khonoma village also spoke about the importance of strengthening and reinvigorating the relationship between the two.
The pastor of Chishilimi Baptist Church, Tokishe Swu, and the Senior Pastor, Pastor and Deacons of KBC also spoke during the service.
During the fellowship, Pughoboto Town Baptist Church presented a song, while gifts were presented by SABAK as well as KBC as a token of appreciation and respect.
Earlier in the month of May, SABAK hosted Khedi Baptist Church for a similar combined fellowship at the SABAK Mission Centre Chapel Hall in Pughoboto.
It may be mentioned that the Rev. Seliezhu Memorial Hall is also being constructed as a joint venture by Khedi Baptist Chruch and SABAK in preparation for 125 years of Sumi Christianity which will be celebrated in 2029.