The Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima (SBCK), celebrated its Centenary Jubilee on November 8 at Daklane, Kohima, under the theme “Faithful Through the Ages.” The opening service was led by Rev. Dr. Khehovi A. Shohe, Director of SBC, who delivered a message on God’s steadfastness and enduring faithfulness.
Speaking on the occasion, Rev. Dr. Shohe reminded the congregation that “God is a dependable God.” In a time when trust is often lacking even among families and friends, he said, “God remains steadfast and trustworthy.” He encouraged members to reflect on God’s grace and faithfulness, adding that the church has been “abundantly blessed throughout the century.” He urged believers to remain grateful, saying, “Whatever we do and wherever we are, our hearts should carry a missionary spirit and then we will be blessed by God.”
Drawing from the life of Billy Graham, Rev. Dr. Shohe emphasized how God uses ordinary people to fulfill divine purposes. He reminded the congregation to be thankful for witnessing the Centenary celebration, acknowledging God’s grace in allowing them and their families to be part of the historic event.
Delivering the Jubilee greetings, Y. Kikheto Sema, Chairman of the Centenary Planning Board, highlighted the remarkable journey of the church over the past hundred years. He recalled the faith and sacrifice of the pioneers who laid the church’s foundation through prayer and unity despite challenges. He described the Sumi Baptist Church as a church “rooted in spirituality, committed to promoting peace, and dedicated to carrying forward the mission of Christ.” He further encouraged members to uphold the legacy of faith and continue as “a beacon of hope and spiritual strength for generations to come.”
Earlier in the programme, Rev. Dr. Shohe unveiled the Centenary Jubilee Monolith, while Dr. I. Lozhevi Sema released the Jubilee Souvenir. Rev. Dr. Yehevi Jimo, Senior Pastor, TVBC, and Translator, unveiled the second edition of the new revised Sumi Bible. The celebration also featured special songs by the Khedi Baptist Church, Kohima, and the Centenary Jubilee Youth Choir.
The two-day Jubilee celebration will continue on November 9 with four speakers- Rev. Dr. Khehovi A. Shohe, Rev. Kughato K. Chophi, Rev. Dr. Daniel Chishi, and Khekavi K. Yeptho, along with greetings from Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, Rev. Devanand Kadariya, and Hosheto Achumi.
Founded in 1925, the Sumi Baptist Church, Kohima, traces its roots to 1907 when Sumi Christians first held fellowship at the Kohima Mission Church. The church’s present structure, inaugurated in 2014, stands as a testament to a century of faith, perseverance, and God’s enduring faithfulness.
