Sümi Baptist Convention (SBC) commemorated the 100th anniversary of Sümi ordination (1926–2026) at Lazami Village on April 12 with the unveiling of a monolith in honour of late Rev. Yemshi Swunetho, the first Sümi tribesman ordained in 1926.
The monolith was unveiled by SBC director, Rev. Dr. Khehovi Shohe, who described the occasion as a historic moment in Sümi church history. He invoked blessings upon the Sümi tribe, the descendants of Rev. Yemshi, Lazami Village, and all Sümi churches, noting that the monolith would remain a lasting reminder of God’s presence.
The event was attended by leaders from SBC-affiliated bodies including WSBAK, SBAK-Nito Mount, and SABAK, along with 71 reverends, 72 licensed pastors, and elders from Lazami Village.
SBAK executive secretary and SBC president, Rev. Kughato K. Chophi, paid tribute to Rev. Yemshi and his wife, Mineli Swunetho, hailing them as pioneers who planted the footprint of the Gospel among the Sümi tribe. He appreciated the Yemshi family’s efforts in preserving history and urged future generations to carry forward the legacy. He also highlighted the Baptist World Alliance’s upcoming global initiative in 2033 to celebrate the 2,000th anniversary of the Church, calling on believers to join in prayer for the historic event.
Rev. Chophi lauded the founding members of SBC, emphasizing its divine purpose. Today, SBC affiliates include 29 churches under SABAK, 150 under SBAK-Nito Mount, and 182 under WSBAK, totaling 361 churches. Drawing from Psalm 105:14–15, he affirmed that ordained ministers are God’s chosen, divinely protected from harm. Marking 100 years of Sümi ordination, he challenged attendees to reaffirm their commitment, renew their spirit, and live devotedly for the ministry of God among the Sümi and Naga people.
WSBAK executive secretary and SBC Ordination Council chairman, Rev. Dr. Phughoto Sema, in his sermon, honoured late Rev. Yemhi Swunetho for paving the spiritual path for the Sümi community. He urged believers to unite and strengthen the tribe socially and religiously, recalling the formation of the Sümi Baptist Convention (SBC) to unify Sümi churches and advance together in Christ.
He also highlighted the vision of the Sümi Baptist Theological Association which led to the establishment of Sümi Theological College under the SBC banner by WSBAK, SBAK-Nito Mount and SABAK.
Rev. Sema emphasized that all work and celebrations must prioritize God, noting that true revival remains essential to safeguard Christian life amid modern challenges. He recounted the history of revival among the Sümi, beginning in 1935 at Tsaphimi village, followed by the 1954 Bible Conference at Sukhalu Baptist Church, and later spreading to other villages. A major revival also took place in 1976 during the “Awakening Week” at Sumi Baptist Akükuhou Mokokchung. Stressing the need to sustain revival, he said it was vital for the healing of the tribe and proposed association-led revivals across Sümi land as the community approaches 125 years of Christianity in 2029.
During the celebration, Trinity Theological College principal, Dr. Hukato Shohe, released a commemorative souvenir profiling the life and contributions of Rev. Swunetho. The programme also featured prayers led by SBAK Pastors chairman, Rev. Luvishe, in memory of Sümi reverends who have passed away and those currently serving. WSBAK Evangelist, Rev. Kiheto Awomi, bestowed special blessings on the descendants of the late Rev. Yemhi.
The proceedings were chaired by SABAK Ordination Board Pastor chairman, Rev. Akato L. Achumi, while WSBAK Evangelist, Rev. Phushito Chishi, recorded the event.
