Nagaland: CBCC marks 75 years of faith and fellowship

Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) culminated its yearlong 75th anniversary celebration on Friday at CBCC Mission Centre, T. Chikri, Pfutsero, under the theme “Renew, Rejoice and Reconnect.”
Thousands of participants, including representatives from 106 churches under the council and beyond, attended the programme.
In his address, CBCC executive secretary Rev. Dr. Chekrovei Cho-o said the gathering was made possible through God’s faithfulness and the sacrifices of pioneers. He reminded the congregation that the occasion was to renew and reconnect their relationship with God and with one another.
Former NBCC general secretary Rev. Dr. Zelhou Keyho and former CBCC executive secretary Rev. Dr. Vezopa Tetseo were the main speakers. Rev. Dr. Keyho described the celebration as historic for future generations and urged the gathering to reflect on God’s blessings. He said as receivers of the gospel, the people must shoulder the responsibility of spreading God’s love and faithfulness to others. Rev. Dr. Vezopa also underlined the need to reconnect with God and urged the congregation to renew the covenant and rejoice in the Lord.
NBCC president Rev. Achu Chang, in his greetings, said celebrating 75 years was not only a sign of maturity but also of wisdom, noting that the council must play the role of advisor.
He highlighted NBCC’s responsibility to speak the moral conscience, uphold Kingdom values and unite the Nagas.
Rev. Dr. Choi Hanzu, retired senior pastor of Purnsoop Presbyterian Church, South Korea, urged the people to examine the present condition and fulfill God’s mission. Convenor of the planning committee Rev. Dr. Küzhopoyo Tunyi thanked God for leading CBCC through 75 years and said the occasion was to honour the labours of pioneers and renew commitment for the years ahead.
Earlier, CBCC president Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao unveiled the 75th anniversary monolith, Rev. Dr. Phuveyi Dozo dedicated the Tabernacle, and former CBCC executive secretary Rev. Khrotso Mero released the souvenir. Greetings were delivered by Rev. Dr. Rachülie Vihienuo, executive director of Angami Baptist Church Council, while Rev. Tsolie Chase, senior pastor of Khonoma Baptist Church, pronounced the prayer of blessing. Special songs were presented by Sumi Aphuyemi Baptist Akhukulu choir, Poumai Naga Baptist Association, anniversary choir and Baptist Theological College choir.
The CBCC traces its origins to 1948 when community leaders including Sülüho, Vesalhü Keyho, Veinü Demo, Pulemu Phesao, Etshirü (Sare) Tsühah and Edisoi Rose initiated separation from Kohima Field Centre, supported by Rev. Megosieso Savino and his wife Janikhoü Savino. Ministry with young churches began in 1949, and on February 15, 1950, CBCC was officially inaugurated as a full-fledged association by Rev. F.E. Merill, then general secretary of the American Foreign Board Mission Society.