Clark Theological College Students’ Union celebrates Golden Jubilee
The Clark Theological College Students’ Union (CTCSU) celebrated its Golden Jubilee on October 31 under the theme ”For God’s Glory” with thanksgiving and a reflective message delivered by Rev. Temsü Jamir, Executive Secretary of the Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang (ABAM).
Greeting the gathering on behalf of ABAM and the 1994 batch of Clark Theological College, Rev. Jamir described the day as a momentous occasion. Recalling the early 1990s, he said CTC then had only four classrooms and one vocational class for driving lessons. He shared memories of students taking turns every Saturday to gather fresh cow dung to plaster the chapel floor, describing the humble beginnings of the college.
Reflecting on CTC’s growth, he called it a premier theological institution and expressed hope that it would evolve into a university with satellite campuses. However, he asked, “CTC has changed, but have we changed? Are we still with the same old wineskin?”
Sharing a vision received on October 27, he warned that if the college’s mission became purely academic, it would lose its divine purpose. Quoting Isaiah 43:18–19, he said, “Forget the former things. See, I am doing a new thing.”
Using the story of basketball’s invention by Dr James Naismith, he explained how cutting the bottom of the basket revolutionized the game. “We all have certain kinds of baskets, and sometimes the biggest block we have is the basket we refuse to cut,” he said. He urged believers to let go of pride, fear, and comfort zones that prevent spiritual renewal, adding, “God cannot fill hands that are still tightly holding the old.”
He reminded that every new season from God requires change, sacrifice, and obedience. “Abraham left his country. Moses left the palace. Peter dropped his net. God is ready to do a new thing in your life, but maybe it’s time to cut the bottom of the basket,” he said.
Emphasizing that theological education must produce transformation rather than mere knowledge, Rev. Jamir said, “God needs people who can bring transformation, not just those with information.” He encouraged students to be “shepherds of souls rather than managers of religious programs.”
He also advised attentiveness in life’s journey: “Every journey is important. I never close my eyes when I travel, because I may never travel that road again.” Concluding, he asked, “If Jesus rebuked the religious establishment in his time, what would he rebuke in ours?”
The Jubilee event was held at the college chapel, led by Matsunginla Jamir (M.Th II). The scripture was read by Imtilemla, Principal of Impur Bible Seminary, and the welcome address was given by Prof Rev.Dr A Temjen Jamir, Principal of CTC. Tributes and greetings were shared by several dignitaries, including Akangtemsu Yaden, Wati Imchen, and Dr A Niholi Sema. Dr Tsuknugrenla unveiled the Jubilee souvenir, and the celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by CTCSU President Akumsunep Jamir.
