Awotsakilimi under Zünheboto district celebrated Christianity Centenary on April 6 and 7 under the theme “Proclaiming God’s Mighty Work”. On the occasion, a monolith to commemorate the centennial jubilee was unveiled and dedicated by Rev. Kughato K Chophi, ES, SBAK Nito Mount and Khezheto Achumi, pastor, Sümi Baptist Church Diphupar B released the centenary commemorative magazine. Rev. Dr. Daniel Chishi, ES, SBAK Aizuto also attended the celebration on Sunday morning.
Speakers of the celebration were Nikhui Achumi, pastor, Diphupar Sümi Baptist Church; Rev. Kughato Chophi, ES, SBAK Nito Mount and Dr. Tokivi Katty, Associate Professor, Manipur Theological College. The speakers in unison encouraged the congregation to be a testament to God’s mighty works upon their lives by living and displaying the traits of spiritually matured person.
Inashe Achumi, Akükatou delivered welcome address while Tokugha P Achumi, additional director, Industries and Commerce, Shikaho P Yeptho, General Manager, NST, and Dr. Vikato Kinimi, retired Principal Director, Health and Family Welfare conveyed the message to the congregation. Convenor, Centennial Jubilee Planning Board Kughaho Achumi expressed gratitude to everyone for their co-operation and contribution.
The highlights of the celebration included display of century old ornaments and artefacts from Awotsakilimi and the exhibition of old photos pertaining to Awotsakili village collected from abroad under the sub-theme “Convergence of Faith and Heritage”.
It may be noted that Yimnasüshi of Ungma village came to Awotsakili village in 1919 and proselytized Yezukhe Achumi who was baptized along with nine other converts from Awotsakilimi in 1924 by Evangelist Suluho Keyho of Chozuba village.
Awotsakilimi in 1973 decided to institute the year of first baptism, i.e, ‘1924’ as the year of establishment of the Awotsakilimi Baptist Church. Subsequently, Awotsakilimi Baptist Church has been commemorating their jubilee years based on this decision.