MBC Shujouba celebrates, dedicates new church building
Source: Chronicle News Service
Senapati, December 16 2023:
Marking the 75th year of Christianity, the Mao Baptist Church (MBC), Shajouba celebrated its platinum Jubilee with the theme "His truth endureth to all Generations" on Friday and Saturday at MBC, Shajouba in Senapati district.
The celebration of Platinum Jubilee cum New Church Building Dedication commenced with the unveiling of Monolith by Rev A Pfokrelo, executive secretary MBCA, and release of the peace flag along with balloons, followed by dedication of the new church building.
In his welcome address, MBC pastor A Kapani praised God the Almighty, greeted the congregations, and narrated the struggle and pains of 9 pioneers in establishing the MBC Shajouba.
A Kokho, Pastor of MBC Makhel, during his speech recalled those ancient Israelis who were known as the blessed people because they accepted and feared the Almighty God.
The story of Jesus feeding a multitude with only five loaves of bread and two fishes reflects the fullness and generosity of God's grace, he said.
Speaking on the topic "His truth endureth to all generations," Rev N Kaiho, pastor MBC Tadubi, noted that the pioneers of churches had a strong relationship of worshipping together despite facing difficult circumstances when building their individual churches.
He said that God is the creator who wants his people to worship Him in spirit and with joyful songs.
B Loli, secretary of the new church building committee, presented report on the new church building.
According to his report, the work on the new church building began with an initial fund of Rs 1,15,255, with a target completion cost of Rs 6 crore.
However, due to inflation and installation of various equipment, it could be completed with a total expenditure of Rs 9,26,38,152 .
The new church stands 1,582.20 metres above sea level and is one of the largest in the region, standing 106 feet tall, 155 feet long, and 90 feet wide, with a seating capacity of 3,500 .
At the start of the gospel talent night, K Neloni, mission secretary MBCA, talked on the theme "You are talented" .
The speaker highlighted that every good talent from God originates from Him and should be used to praise Him through one's ability.
On the second day of the event, the church held a special prayer for their beloved NALOPFII (daughters and sisters who are married to people outside the village) and acknowledged their contributions in their missionary field.
A Kapani, pastor MBC Shajouba, asked all married women to act as missionaries at home, in society, community, and village wherever they are married to with good manners and live a Christian home.
The gathering closed with nostalgic speeches and heartwarming stories shared by all, garnering a lot of attention and blessings.
Representatives from Pou-mai Naga, Maram Naga, and Thangal Naga baptist associations, as well as pastors from several churches, attended the event.
Around 6,000 delegates from various congregations attended the platinum jubilee celebration, along with over 3,000 delegates from outside the church.