Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, April 2:
The Tangkhul Baptist Churches Association (TBCA) is all set to host the “Quasquicentennial & Quinquennial” (TBG125) Fellowship, a global Baptist congregation bringing together believer from around the world. The event will take place in Ukhrul district headquarters from April 4 to 8, 2024, under the theme “In the fullness of time” – Galatians 4:4. Tens of thousands of believers are expected to attend, marking 125 years of Christianity in Manipur.
In a press conference held at the TBG125 Hall at Mission Compound, Alungtang, Reverend Zaklei Raping, the Convenor of the Organising Committee and pastor of Phungyo Baptist Church (PBC), elaborated on the details of the upcoming event. While primarily a Baptist occasion, believers from all Christian denominations in the district are invited to participate. The main objective is to express gratitude to God for choosing the Tangkhuls as His followers for over 125 years and to foster spiritual revival among believers.
Reverend Raping highlighted the milestone arrival of Reverend William Pettigrew, an American Baptist missionary, in 1896 at Hunphun/Ukhrul, fulfilling God’s promise of adopting the Tangkhul people as His own. The event aims to promote spiritual revival and unity, crucial for societal growth.
Mr. Themshang Horam, a committee member, emphasized the importance of spiritual revival for societal development. Reverend Ayo underscored the dual purpose of the event: spiritual revival and promoting physical cleanliness. A cleanliness drive will be conducted, urging public cooperation to maintain a clean environment.
The event will witness greetings from notable figures including Reverend Dr. Elijah Brown, General Secretary of Baptist World Alliance (BWA), and Reverend Jim Bell, Associate Executive Director of Global Mission International Ministries (American Baptist Foreign Mission Society). Chief Minister N Biren, Outer MP Dr. Lorho S Pfoze, and Ukhrul MLA Ram Muivah will also attend.
Various activities are planned, including prayer gatherings, religious services, cultural showcases, concerts, and a traditional museum showcasing talents blessed by God. The Organising Committee appeals for peace and cooperation during the historic celebration.
The TBG125 Fellowship promises to be a momentous occasion uniting believers worldwide in celebration and reflection on 125 years of Christianity in Manipur.