DIMAPUR: The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC), through its Christian Education Department, successfully concluded the NEXTGEN Christian Education Leaders Conference held from September 8–10, at the NBCC Convention Centre under the theme “Rethinking Discipleship for the Next Generation.”
The three-day conference brought together over 500 Christian education leaders, pastors, educators and children’s ministry workers to reflect on the changing context of discipleship and the challenges of nurturing the faith of the next generation. Praise and worship was led by the Covenant Baptist Church Dimapur worship team, while youth dramas were presented by Dimapur Sumi Baptist Church and Aoyimti Baptist Arogo.
The programme commenced with a welcome address by secretary of the Christian Education Department NBCC, Bideno Kikon. Principal speakers included general secretary of NBCC, Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener; Emeritus Professor, Dr. Alongla P. Aier; and executive director of BMS World Mission, Dr. Kethoser Aniu Kevichusa. Their messages focused on “Our Great Mission,” “Re-discipling the Jesus Centered Life,” and “Discipleship and Disciple-Making.”
The conference featured a diverse group of resource persons from fields such as theology, medicine, education, pastoral ministry, entrepreneurship, social welfare and disability services. Among them were Rev. Dr. Phanenmo Kath, Dr. Temjenpokba Longkumer, Hukheli Sema, Rev. Dr. Kedo Peseyie, Lezo Putsure, Gary Kamaa, Yangtsapila Sangtam, Dr. Adela Mero, Rev. Dr. Vetso Koza, Asanuo Seb, and Ashe H. Kiba.
Sessions covered pressing issues including Biblical gender identity, intergenerational ministry, AI and the Church, child protection, raising resilient children and engaging children with special needs. A breakout session on Basic Sign Language conducted by Eliza Chishi highlighted the importance of inclusivity in ministry.
Evening worship services featured participation from churches and Baptist associations across Nagaland, reinforcing unity and shared responsibility in Christian education.
The conference concluded on September 10 with an evening worship service where Dr. Kethoser Aniu Kevichusa delivered the final message. Words of gratitude were shared by coordinator of Christian Education NBCC, Shikalu J. Sumi.
The NBCC Christian Education Department expressed gratitude to all associations, churches, participants and families who contributed to the success of the programme.
