SENAPATI: Mao Baptist Church (MBC) Okhro Ikhro marked a historic milestone with the celebration of its Silver Jubilee cum Church Dedication at the church premises on Tuesday. The programme commemorated 25 years since the establishment of the church in 2000 and witnessed the participation of church leaders, members, and believers from various denominations.
The worship service was moderated by Jorim Kayina, while the invocation prayer was offered by Rev. N. Kaiho, Pastor, MBC Tadubi. The welcome address delivered by Akha, Pastor, MBC Okhro Ikhro. A choir presentation was rendered by MBC Song Song.
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One of the highlights of the programme was the release of the Silver Jubilee Souvenir by Rev. L. Adani Kayina, Home Evangelist, MBC Song Song. The Jubilee Committee Convenor, Neli Japhet, presented an overview of the Jubilee celebrations, while a special number was performed by the local church.
Scripture readings were led by Rev. H. Chokho, Pastor, MBC Chowainamai, and Rev. Manikho Robert, Finance Secretary, MBCA.
Delivering the main message, Rev. Dr. L. Kholi, Pastor, MBC Punanamei, spoke from II Peter 1:3 on the theme “Kupra kolo khrumeiyi kokhro kava piotie”. In his sermon, he emphasized the importance of reading the Bible daily, fearing God, and faithfully attending church. He urged believers to open their hearts to God and not allow worldly desires and material pursuits to fill their lives. Drawing a comparison, he said that while people show respect to officers and bosses on earth, the same reverence should be given to God. He reminded the congregation that although humans may not fully know one another, God knows everyone, and described the church as “the nearest place to heaven.”
A report on the new church building was presented by Neli Jacob, Co-Convenor, NCB, detailing the journey of the church’s growth. The vote of thanks was proposed by Rev. Chiluyio Pfoze, Pastor, MBC Song Song, and the programme concluded with a benediction by Rev. Asholi Akamu, Missionary, Thailand.
The celebration saw the participation of members from the Mao Baptist Church Association, Women Society, Men Society, Youth Department, drivers, and believers from other denominations, and also army personal from 16 Assam rifles, reflecting unity and fellowship among the Christian community.
According to church records, the first chapel was constructed in 2002, followed by the first church building in 2007. At present, Okhro Ikhro has 59 households, with a total church membership of 230, of which eight households are currently residing outside the village.
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As part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations, a monolith balloon event was also announced, with rewards promised for anyone who catches the balloon. The public has been requested to contact 7005510701/ 878782668.