123rd PBCs Foundation Day observed at Ukhrul town
Source: Chronicle News Service / R Lester Makang

Ukhrul, September 29 2023: Over two thousand members of Phungyo Baptist Church (PBC) in Ukhrul Town celebrated its 123rd Foundation Day on Friday.

It was a special time for the church members as memories of the past were refreshed and tales of how God has beep with them through the years were shared.

Significantly, the day recalled the faith and courage of the pioneer members of PBC that emboldened the church to move towards its growth today.

In a special way to mark the occasion, the church remembered its first baptism of first 12 Christian converts at Ngayira, Awungtang way back in 1901.Since then, the first Christian church was established in the form of Phungyo (meaning beautiful hill) Baptist Church.

Considered as the mother church of Manipur, PBC has since been thriving as the first spiritual family in the state, experiencing God's presence over the past century.

Held under the theme of 'The Great Commission - Our Obligation', the commemorative event began with the traditional morning service led by senior deacon Leimah Hongray at Ngayira, in which members thanked God for the past century of blessings and prayed for the future of PBC.

Ngayira is a traditional water pond where the first 12 converts namely, R Hollei, K Sangmayang, S Ramkaiphang, S Leishisan, K Maninglum, L Sakhayang, C Kaphungkui, S Mangaleng (all from Hunphun), M Haora, Mashokring and S Thisha from Hundung village were baptised by reverend William Pettigrew.

The first baptism which took place on September 29, 1901 marked the advent of Christianity and establishment of the first Christian church.

To commemorate the first baptism, PBC pastor reverend Zaklei Raping also administered baptism of 18 new members of the church at the church premises on the day, while Trinity Missionary Training Centre, Imphal director reverend Dr Khalangpam Vashum delivered a sermon as guest speaker.

The foundation day flag was hoisted by former women chairperson Tharawon Raleng in the presence of reverend Zaklei Raping, church elders and pastors from different churches of the district.

In his welcome address, reverend Zaklei Raping reminded the gathering that the church owes its existence to the mercies of God and the selfless service of reverend William Pettigrew who first brought the light of Christianity in Manipur.

As the members of PBC gathered to reinforce their faith in God and to rejoice in His goodness, prayers of thanksgiving were offered and special songs were sung in honour of the persevering spirit of the early members.

Blessing and Thanksgiving of the day was administered by Talui Baptist Church pastor reverend Mingyao Zimik.

Phungyo Rharar Long, PBC Choir and Children Worship Team presented special numbers.

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