A newly constructed building of the Kohima Ao Baptist Church (KABA) was officially inaugurated on Sunday in Kohima. The Church building was formally dedicated by Rev. M. Asangba Longkumer, senior pastor, KABA. Ao Baptist Church Association (Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang – ABAM) executive secretary, Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger was the main speaker during the dedicatory program held under the theme “To God Be the Glory”.
Rev. Atsongchanger, addressing the congregation, said the building dedication was a double blessing because it coincides with the Church’s 80th year in the ministry since it was established in 1939. Quoting the Bible verse II Chronicles 7:14 “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land,” he said it befitted the Church dedication as well. He exhorted the congregation to follow the four dedication principles mentioned in the verse — humility, prayer, seeking God and turning from wicked ways. Rev. Dr. Atsongchanger said dedications come with humility and only with humility, God can answer prayers.
“We often pray only for our needs, protection, blessings but there are many kinds of prayers”, he said and explained the principle of “ACTS” (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving and Supplication).
He exhorted the congregation to completely turn away from their wicked ways, only then, he said, God will hear their prayers, forgive and heal the land.
Kohima Baptist Pastors Fellowship president, Dr Kevichalie Metha also shared greetings during the occasion.
L Temsu Longkumer, convenor, Church Complex Construction Committee said the total expenditure incurred in construction of the building was Rs. 26,28,86,000.
Architect Richard Belho and his firm ZYNORIQUE were entrusted with the design, concept and construction of the Church. Dismantling of the old Church began on April 1, 2011 and the first mortar mixture was laid on October 11, 2011.