Sümi Baptist Convention reinforces vision of united ministry

DIMAPUR: The 35th Biennial Session of the Sümi Baptist Convention (SABAK/SBAK/WSBAK) was held at Trinity Theological College (TTC), Thahekhu, from October 24 to 25, 2026, under the theme “Together We Serve.”
The two-day session brought together pastors, women pastors and youth pastors representing 361 Baptist churches under the convention for a time of spiritual enrichment, fellowship, encouragement and collective reflection on their responsibilities in Christian ministry.
The session was organised with the objective of strengthening unity among church leaders, deepening their commitment to the service of God and encouraging greater cooperation in fulfilling the spiritual and social responsibilities entrusted to the Church.
The principal speakers at the session were Rev. Kughato K. Chophi, president of the Sümi Baptist Convention; Rev. Dr. Khehovi Shohe, director of the Sümi Baptist Convention; and Alito V. Swu, acting executive secretary of SABAK.
Through their messages and exhortations, they encouraged church leaders to remain steadfast in their faith, uphold the values of Christian leadership, and carry out their ministries with dedication, humility, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility. Their messages also highlighted the importance of unity, cooperation, spiritual maturity and a shared commitment to advancing the Kingdom of God.
The gathering was further enriched by exhortations from minister of PHED, Jacob Zhimomi and Atokükau Kakheho Yeptho of Thahekhu Village. Their words of encouragement emphasised responsible leadership, commitment to service and constructive engagement in the development of society.
As part of the programme, Inaje Phuleshe, retired director of Rural Development, and Hoto Yeptho, retired director of Land Resources, presented papers aimed at encouraging, informing and equipping church leaders in their respective areas of service. The presentations provided valuable insights into leadership, responsibility and effective service while demonstrating the importance of learning from experienced professionals.
The participation of pastors, women pastors and youth pastors from across the convention reflected the importance of collective leadership and the shared responsibility of nurturing the spiritual growth of the Church. The session provided an opportunity for leaders from different Baptist churches to strengthen fellowship, exchange ideas and renew their commitment to the mission of the Sümi Baptist Convention.
The SBC Planning Board expressed gratitude to all speakers, dignitaries, church leaders, delegates, paper presenters, programme participants and contributors for supporting the successful conduct of the 35th session. The board also extended appreciation to the principal, faculty, staff and students of Trinity Theological College, Thahekhu, for hosting the session and providing the necessary facilities and support.
The 35th Biennial Session concluded with a renewed call for unity, faithfulness and collective commitment among church leaders. The organisers expressed hope that the lessons, encouragement and fellowship gained during the gathering would continue to inspire the 361 Baptist churches to work together in strengthening Christian witness, nurturing spiritual growth and fulfilling their God-given mission.