Sumi Baptist Church Kohima (SBCK) today celebrated the Pre-Centenary Jubilee of its Christian Education Department, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to nurturing the spiritual growth of children and youth.
The morning session was graced by Rev. Dr. Kiyeto Sema, Senior Pastor of Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Church, Kohima, who served as the speaker. In his inspiring address, Rev. Dr. Sema emphasized the importance of children’s education, citing Isaiah 55:11. He stressed that Christian principles taught during Sunday school in childhood have a lasting impact on individuals and society.
Rev. Dr. Sema encouraged the church to prioritize children’s ministry and urged youths, elders, and parents to serve as Sunday school teachers. He noted that children are future leaders who will shape the spiritual and social fabric of society.
In his closing remarks, he expressed hope and prayed that the Pre-Centenary Jubilee celebration would continue to bring blessings, renewal, and spiritual growth to the congregation.
Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS, Chairman of the Centenary Planning Board, remarked that the jubilee of the Christian Education Department had not been celebrated in the past. To honor the department’s legacy and acknowledge both pioneers and current Sunday school teachers, SBCK included this Pre-Centenary celebration in its calendar.
He highlighted the pioneering work of Luveto Shohe, who served as the first Sunday school supervisor from 1981 to 1989, and appreciated the contributions of all those who have served under SBCK over the years.
The Christian Education Department was formally established in 2012 under SBCK, with Dr. L. Botoholi Yeptho serving as Associate Pastor at the time.
He further noted that under the leadership of Associate Pastor Piokali Sema, who has served from 2001 to date, the church has diligently worked towards organizing the Pre-Centenary Jubilee of the department.
Lukheto Yeptho, Chairman of the Board of Deacons and former Sunday school supervisor, also delivered a greeting message.
During the jubilee celebration, certificates were distributed to Sunday school pioneers and current teachers. The program was chaired by Piokali Sema, Associate Pastor of the Christian Education Department, and featured a special melody performance by former Sunday school teachers and the Family Music Band.
In the evening session, Dr. L. Botoholi Yeptho, Associate Pastor (General), SBCK, delivered a powerful message, further enriching the celebration.