NBCC’s training for full-time Baptist ministers

The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) organized a one-day programme for full-time ministers of Baptist Churches under the Kohima Baptist Pastor’s Fellowship (KBPF) on August 27, at the NBCC Platinum Hall in Kohima, under the themed “Gathering to be strengthened.” Altogether, 201 full-time Baptist church leaders from Kohima attended the event.
The gathering began with a devotional led by NBCC Secretary of Social Concern, Dr. Villo Naleo, who spoke on the topic “Extolling Christian Fellowship” based on Hebrews 10:22-25. He reflected on the purpose of Christian fellowship, emphasizing that it helps believers draw nearer to God, help believers stay strong and committed to their faith and hope, and encourage one another in love.
NBCC General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Mar Pongener, spoke on the topic “From Routine to Renewal,” emphasizing that routine is not the enemy but a pathway to renewal. He noted that Dangers of Routine in Ministry is the reason behind burnout and spiritual dryness, while true renewal is a fresh work of the Holy Spirit that retrieves passion, strength and alignment with God’s purpose, leading to a spirit-led, fruitful ministry.
Highlight of the programme was a series of sharing sessions by various church leaders. Kohima Ao Baptist Arogo, pastor Arep Tzudir, spoke on the topic “Ministry Through Relationships.” He emphasized that church leaders should be seasoned in the Gospel, live it out before sharing it, and build relationships that invite others into the shared joy of the Gospel. So that we may see, the work of faith, labor of love and steadfastness of hope within the congregation, he noted
Sumi Baptist Church Kohima, associate pastor, Dr. L. Botoholi Yeptho, shared on the topic “Staying True to the Call.” She encouraged Christian leaders to remember their God-given potential, especially during moments of self-doubt and struggle. She emphasized that instead of comparing oneself with others who seem to be thriving, leaders should look inward, continually revisit their calling, and renew their faith to understand their purpose and place.
Zeme Baptist Church, Midland, pastor, Rev. Iringtie Kauring, spoke on the topic “Integrity and Transparency in Ministry.” He expressed concern that Christian ministry today is moving towards achieving status and position rather than character development.
He emphasized that integrity and transparency go hand in hand, though living a truly open and honest life is challenging due to the coexistence of good and evil within us. He urged believers to prioritize character formation, stating that as Christian ministry is about a good person a person of character.
Union Baptist Church, Kohima, youth pastor, Megozeno Savino, spoke on the topic “Knowing the Sheep: Leading with Compassion and Discernment.” She reminded the congregation that Christian ministry must flow out from one’s relationship with Jesus. She stressed the need for leaders to seek wisdom, they must be led and should be with prayers and treat everyone with kindness and compassion, and stressed on the value of interpersonal relationships to make their ministry impactful and effective.
Songs were presented by full-time ministers, Khiamniungan Baptist Church, Kohima, full-time ministers, Yimkhiung Baptist Church, Kohima and NBCC staff.
The programme was chaired by NBCC Secretary (Youth), Rev. N. Suhuto Chishi; vote of thanks by NBCC Christian Education, secretary A. Bideno Kikon, and KBPF president, Rev. Dr. Ruokuovilie Sachü and concluded with benediction by Chakhesang Baptist Church Ministers’ Hill, pastor Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao.