Contents Baptist News A quarterly news letter of the COUNCIL OF BAPTIST Editorial 2 CHURCHES IN NORTH EAST INDIA First Dispensary in Nagaland 4 The Council comprises of Assam Baptist Convention, Arunachal Basic Counseling 6 Baptist Church Council, Garo Baptist Convention, Karbi Anglong My Short Experience about Baptist Convention, Manipur Babupara Christian Hospital Baptist Convention and Nagaland (Nisangram) 8 Baptist Church Council. EDITORIAL BOARD Administration in Baptist Churches 13 Editor: Rev Dr A. K. Lama

News Capsule 22 Sub-Editor: Dr Asangla Ao

Design & Layout: Siamliana Khiangte Leprosy Work 35 Circulation: The Biblical Perspective of Rabindra Basumatary Rest 40 Jatin Gogoi Jinoy G. Sangma

A Life Changing Revelation 44 Subscription: One Year ` 150 (US$20) Making Greater Impact in Two Years ` 250 (US$35) Mission: Streamlining Three Years ` 400 (US$50) & Partnership 47 Five Years ` 600 (US$80) Contact information: Prepare Ye The Way of CBCNEI, Mission Compound the Lord 53 Panbazar, Guwahati, Assam-781001 Mission: Ex Deus et Phone: +91-361-2515 829 (O) Fax: +91-361-2544 447 Ex Humanus 57 eMail: [email protected] website: www.cbcnei.com Baptist News, July - December 2012 1 from the desk of editor

Dear friends,

We are looking for someone who could lead us as the Assistant Editor of the Baptist News. I have been juggling with too many responsibilities. Besides the office of the General Secretary, I am also looking after the office of the Secretary for the Medical Department and Leadership Training. Hence the publication of the last issue is delayed. You might have noticed that this issue combines the two issues. Please accept my apology.

The primary goal of Baptist News has been to publish the news of the events happening in the Baptist family. So that through them you may sense the movement of the Holy Spirit amidst us and give thanks, pray, and get involved.

Since most of us in the northeast are not keen on writing it has been an uphill task to gather the news. Most news that you might read here are from the departments of CBCNEI. Please know that we welcome the news with pictures from your church, association, and convention. We will be glad to include them in the next issue.

2 Baptist News, July - December 2012 We also welcome your article. If there are certain contextual issues that you would like to address to provoke our thinking, please write and send them to us. Our editorial team will help you to publish them.

In this issue, we have included an article on REST from Johnson Raih, the Principal of MBC High School. He has done good job to underline a range of meaning of the Rest in Bible. Rev Kulendra Marak gathers some of his experience and knowledge to help us understand how men and women of God strived to serve the people of Nishangram and the areas around through Babupara Christian Hospital. Charyl Ford, wife of Pastor Clayton Ford, who was one of the resource persons in the CBCNEI Training Program, shares her thought on God who always extends sceptre of mercies to those who are in need. I have written an article to record my views and suggestions on the governance and administration in the Baptist family. Rev Taku Longkumer has written an article to prepare our hearts for the forthcoming season of Christmas. While Dr Asangla gives some tips on the basics of the Couseling. Dr Jolly Rimai and I have tried to address various issues related to Missions in our context. I hope you will enjoy reading it.

The Christmas and the New Year 2013 is approaching. We wish you a blessed festive season. May the good Lord grant you a prosperous and successful New Year 2013.

Dr A. K. Lama General Secretary

Baptist News, July - December 2012 3 First Dispensary in Nagaland (Excerpt taken from Impur Christian Hospital Centenary Souvenir (1912-2012) Published byImpur Christian Hospital, Impur, Nagaland) But in the year 1912, under his initiative the first dispensary was opened at the hillock near the boundary with Mopungchuket village, present microwave sta- tion. Later in the year Dispensary constructed in 1916-ICH 1916 the temporary dis- pensary was shifted to With the increasing growth of just below the present Impur mission activities, they came to Christian Hospital; and contin- realize Medical Ministry for ued their medical healing min- physical healing as one of the istry till 1954. Dr J. R. Bailey greatest, urgent and pressing was not only a good physical needs of the hour for the Naga healer but a competent spiritu- people. al healer also. He worked te- diously till his death, in the year 1928, leaving behind his be- loved wife and six (6) children, viz. James, Howard, Audrey, Stephen, Barbara and Phyllis. Mrs. James R. Bailey wanted to continue as Women Missionary Dr & Mrs. James R. Bailey under Foreign Mission amongst the Nagas, but the American Dr & Mrs. James R. Bailey, the Baptist Mission Union did not first Medical Missionary carne give her permission. That’s how to Impur in 1909. For about two Mrs J. R. Bailey had to return years, he gave medicine and back to America with her chil- helped the patients from his dren. home. 4 Baptist News, July - December 2012 After the dead of Dr Bailey in the year 1954. 1928, Impur Dispensary went At this time Dr Ngangshi Aier through some lapses due to the was serving at Jorhat Christian lack of proper residential Med- Hospital very actively. Even ical Doctors. though he was working there, So it was at that time, Dr J. A. he had a deep concern for the Ahlquist, a missionary doctor improvement and the well be- from Jorhat Christian Hospital ing of Impur Dispensary. frequently visited Impur Dispen- Therefore under his pioneering sary and helped the patients. leadership he brought several It was very encouraging to see mobile unit teams from Jorhat the good helping relationship Christian Hospital to Impur to between Jorhat Christian Hos- cover more Ao villages with pital and Impur dispensary, better medical treatment. since both the ministries were According to the official record, under the American Baptist mis- Dr Ngangshi Aier brought the sion. first mobile medical unit from In November 1953, when Rev Jorhat Christian Hospital to Im- Truxton was the field incharge pur Dispensary on Apri16, 1954. of Impur mission centre, Dr. In his first trip he stayed for 3 Ngangshi Aier, Dr O. W. Hassel- days at Impur Dispensary, dur- blad, Rev. Truxton and Rev Ki- ing which he gave treatment to jung had a meeting for the im- 34 Impur students and 17 out- provement of the Impur Dispen- siders. sary. Also, it was at this difficult time After much prolonged discus- that SDMO (Sub Divisional Med- sion for the possible option to ical Officer) from Mokokchung improve. Impur dispensary , it made monthly visits and helped was finally decided to start a Impur Dispensary as required by Mobile Medical Unit from Jorhat the Medical mobile unit team Christian Hospital with one of (1958). the Doctors to visit and help Impur Dispensary monthly from *****

Baptist News, July - December 2012 5 By Dr Asangla Ao, Women’s Director, TLA Ministries BASIC COUNSELING

Not everyone is cut to be a of counseling, and keeping the counselor. But in ministry counseling “tools” sharpened whether you are trained coun- will certainly help us stay ready selor or not, you can’t wash your for any moment of need. More- hands off from the responsibil- over; counseling is a skill—the ity of offering counseling min- more you practice it, the better istry to those who are in need. you become. Many are hurting around us and BASIC ELEMENTS FOR AN EF- extending a helping hand to FECTIVE COUNSELING those is inevitable for a pastor COMPASSIONATE HEART: One or for those who are in full time must have a compassionate ministry. Whether you want it heart to observe, see, and act or not, people will come to you in order to render a helping hand seeking advice, looking for so- to those who are in need. Jesus lutions to their problems, or was a compassionate person even to unburden their troubled who saw, had compassion, and heart. With all good intention met the needs of people (Matt while helping an unskillful 9:36) counselor might cause more damage than healing. Incompe- RELATIONSHIP: The art o coun- tence of a counselor may lead seling runs through the fabric to failure of the whole counsel- of healthy relationship. So, the ing process. ability to connect with other person is paramount in an ef- Learning some basic principles fective counseling process. A

6 Baptist News, July - December 2012 healthy relationship itself can by the counselee. Listen to be therapeutic—encouraging both verbal and nonverbal mes- counselees understand them- sages and respond accurately. selves and their situation bet- COMMUNICATION SKILLS: The ter, find the available resources, quality of communication be- and learn to manage their lives tween counselor and counselee more effectively. is an integral part of effective EMPATHY: It’s being with and counseling. We communicate understanding the counselees nonverbally much more than in and through the context of verbally. As you listen to verbal their lives. Being able to dis- messages, do not ignore the cern, touch the emotions a nonverbal messages (facial ex- counselee is experiencing, and pression, body posture, eye then respond accurately may movement). The conversation open the ‘gateway’ to his /her between counselor and coun- world, helping you to see the selee should be therapeutic. bigger picture. “All Scripture is inspired by God TRUST AND CONFIDENTIALITY: & profitable for teaching, for It is a vital part of counseling. reproof, for correction, for Betrayal can be lethal in the training in righteousness, so that process of counseling. Earn the the man of God may be ad- trust of the counselee and equate, equipped for every maintain confidentiality. good work.” (2 Tim 3:16-17). ACTIVE LISTENING: It is the May the Word of God inspire foundation of understanding. you, give you in depth knowl- The depth of understanding edge and wisdom as you coun- depends on how well you listen sel and guide others. May you to your counselee. Process well allow the Holy Spirit to work in what you hear. Be aware of your and through your counseling own internal conversation, as- ministry. sumptions, cultural biases, and ***** presupposition. They might dis- tort or filter what is being said

Baptist News, July - December 2012 7 My short Experience about Babupara Christian Hospital (Nisangram)

By Rev Kulendra Marak, Evangelist,Pillangkatta B. Church, Meghalaya

“If only you had paid attention was very common in Assam. The in my commands, your peace two Missionaries Dr Stoddard would have been like a river, and Rev T. J. Keith, and other your righteousness like the present dignitaries named this waves of the sea” Isaiah 48:18 place as “NISANGRAM”. So with a great joy and thanksgiving a Right from the creation our Al- celebration took place on 6th mighty God set everything sys- February 1872 as it is recorded tematically and used his peo- in A’chik Baptist Krima No. 1- ple for betterment and develop- Centennial Souvenir. ment of his Institution or Orga- nization everywhere. Before I First, BABUPARA CHRISTIAN narrate about Babupara Chris- HOSPITAL was situated some- tian Hospital I would like to where at Rongjeg village as a draw your attention about small Dispensary but due to “NISANGRAM”. As per my some inconveniences it was knowledge goes Nisan means shifted from Rongjeg to Nisan- Banner or Flag and Gram means gram. In the beginning it was village. We are aware of edu- used as a Nisangram Dispensa- cation in Bengali language dur- ry. It is not clear who named ing British rule in Assam. Dur- Babupara Christian Hospital but ing that time Bengali Language I believe this name also might

8 Baptist News, July - December 2012 have given by the founder of this Hospital. As re- corded by A.B.Krima No. 1- Centennial Souve- nir, this Hospital was founded in February 1949 by Dr E. S. Downs an American Home Mission Board. So it was Missionary. It started function- more convenient for stocking ing since May 1949. Mr Ge- medicine, dressing and treat- naram A. Momin worked as a ment of the patients. Miss Ruth compounder with one small Menon and Miss Nodil K. Mar- almirah for storing the medi- ak came to help Mr G. A. Mo- cine. He lived in a small cottage min for ten days in 1963 and in with small two rooms for the the same year Dr Mundek and family. He wored for seventeen Mr C. C. Jones, Treasurer, CBC- years from 1949 to 1966. In be- NEI visited to see the work and tween Dr E. S. Downs visited on development of the dispensa- & off, and did eye check ups. ry. As the population increased in In 1966 both Dr C. T. Ao and Dr the village the medical demand Alangla Ao worked for two became more. The foreign Mis- months with Mr G. A. Momin in sionaries from USA visited and rotation. In the same year Dr took more interest as the com- Alice Marak (now with the Lord) pounder Mr G. A. Momin who also worked for five months strongly demanded the needs after her retirement. Mr G. A. of the medical aid. One build- Momin retired in Feb. 1966. Af- ing was constructed with three ter his retirement, Mrs Pisoni A. rooms and seven beds. It was Sangma (now with the Lord) dedicated by Dr Fuman (now was appointed as an incharge with the Lord, Feb. 1960), the of the Hospital. Although there General Secretary of American was no doctor, patients need

Baptist News, July - December 2012 9 were met satisfactoroly. Since 1980 Mrs Prekhilda W. Momin there was no delivery room and (ANM) was sent from Tura no light facilities in the hospi- Christian Hospital and worked tal the compounder had to con- only for one and half year. Dr duct deliveries in homes. Mr G. Crozier S. Sangma worked for A. Momin was reappointed by one year. But unfortunately the the A’chik Baptist Convention Hospital was closed for some just for one year. Fortunately Dr time again. In September 1980 L. Norton and Dr Dogdson visit- the Hospital was reopened and ed the hospital with much in- Mr G. A. Momin was called by terest. One nurse’s quarter was the Committee and he worked constructed in 1967 and it was till 1990. He died on April 25th inaugurated by Dr E. S. Downs 1990. During his service the in January and it was their last Hospital building construction Mission Visit to Nisangram was completed and it was in- Babupara Christian Hospsital augurated by Rev Imotemjen before they left Garo Hills for Aier (the Former General Sec- America. The present Hospital retary, CBCNEI) in September building was constructed and 1983. In 1983 Mrs Hingonbala left half done for many years. Sangma (ANM) was sent from In 1968 Dr Curzon G. Momin Tura Christian Hospital and she from Guwahati was appointed worked till 1986. Dr Rosemari- as a Medical Officer and na Marak worked from 1993 to worked from 1969 to 1970 with 1994. In between Dr P. Rudra Mrs Pisoni A. Sangma (GNM). Tariang visited from time to But she also left the hospital in time and checked the patients 1969. and the Hospital was run by In 1973 onward the hospital Mrs Emina Ch. Momin. During was almost closed down but 1996 to 1997 Dr C. Lawrence, the Committee Members kept Dr Lucita Momin, Dr Kevi An- open just to give injections. gami, Dr Takemba Ao and Dr Hence the dissatisfaction from Naomi Doungel from Satribari the public side had been in- Christian Hospital, Guwahati creased. In this situation in worked in rotation. In 1998 Dr

10 Baptist News, July - December 2012 Sailendra Singh Massey from inaugurated on 11th of June Guwahati Medical College 2008. In the same way the worked for June and July. Funds from the National Pro- After a long struggle and diffi- gram for Control of Blindness culties Dr John Ritchi N. Sang- (as promised by the Joint Direc- ma, an Eye Specialist from Sa- tor Dr J. V. Basaiawmoit) en- tribari Christian Hospital, was abled to start the construction appointed as Medical Superin- of the operation theater. After th tendent incharge in 2008. completion of the same on 5 While he was working at Satrib- September 2009, Mr D. Vijoy ari Christian Hospital, he was Kumar, the Deputy Commis- approached by a fine gentle- sioner (Williamnagar) East man, Dr Ranjit Ratnaike, a prac- Garo Hills, along with Rev Dr A. titioner from Adelaide, Austra- K. Lama, General Secretary, lia for setting up an Eye unit. CBCNEI inaugurated and dedi- The required amount for OPD cated the Operation Theater re- Unit was sent to the CBCNEI spectively. The Medical Super- from the InterLink Foundation, intendent of Tura Christian Hos- Australia. After much contem- pital, Dr Jedidah Marak, Mr plation Rev Dr Ngul Khan Pau, Lokho Mao, CEO, other staff of General Secretary, CBCNEI Mr Satribari Christian Hospital, Rolland G. Momin, Treasurer. Guwahati, some ABDK leaders CBCNEI and Dr John jointly de- attended during this auspicious cided to set up the Eye Unit at day. I was extremely happy to Babupara Christian Hospital, participate on this particular Nisangram. Inspite of all these ceremonial program. odd’s the CBCNEI along with I was determined to have my local support of the villagers, Eye’s operation done by Dr John decided to go ahead establish- R. N. Sangma last year but due ing the Eye unit at Babupara to my unavoidable circum- Christian Hospital and Dr John stances I couldn’t do so. How- Sangma looked after the Project. ever after constant prayers for By this way with funds from In- a year, our Lord gave me the terlink Foundation the OPD was courage and full conviction in

Baptist News, July - December 2012 11 Him. So, finally I was prepared Sunday morning service in 1974 for my eye’s operation on 3rd while I was serving as a field May 2012 (Thursday) I was supervisor under India Every awaiting from morning till 5:30 Home Crusade. There was good p.m. but there was no electrici- gathering on Sunday Service to ty for which the Hospital au- worship our living Lord Jesus thority had to use the genera- Christ. The A’chik Baptist krima tor and near about 6:30 pm my No. 1 office is situated at Nisan- eye’s operation was done suc- gram and Garo vernacular cum cessfully. I thank Dr John R. N. English Bible School also run- Sangma and his assistants who ning at Nisangram. Our merci- prayerfully and systematically ful Lord is giving all blessings performed the operation. I do for the people of this area. As I pray that this Babupara Chris- mentioned earlier if we pay our tian Hospital grow in strength attention His(Lord) commands, to strength through the present then we’ll have peace like a riv- doctor and nurses of the Hos- er and our righteousness will pital. become just like the waves of The location of Babupara Chris- the sea. tian Hospital itself is so beau- So lastly, I should suggest to tiful because it has been sur- the Medical Board of the Coun- rounded by 4 (four) Hills name- cil, it would be highly appreci- ly Wa’gok Hills, Matchuki Ad- ated and helpful for downtrod- ing, Chimatcha Hills, and Babu- den people if Medical Board para Hills, etc. As a whole prayerfully consider to upgrade Nisangram village is one of the this Babupara Christian Hospi- advanced villages among the tal. Our people cannot afford to Garo villages. There is a prom- take any medical treatment in inent church in the village. In the city or town Hospital where fact Nisangram Baptist Church patients are spending more for had first ordained Pastor Rev. their treatments. (AMEN). Ramke W. Momin, who worked as a pastor from 1868 to 1887. I attended first in this church on *****

12 Baptist News, July - December 2012 By Rev Dr A. K. Lama, General Secretary, CBCNEI Administration in the Baptist Churches: Hierarchy or Anarchy

In the Baptist Churches of their seminary training about northeast India, we are often administration and governance. occupied with service oriented Most Baptist leaders need ministries. We are good at or- training in administration and ganizing Sunday worship ser- governance. vices, conduct spiritual pro- Unlike Episcopalian, Baptists grams, provide member care, are supposed to be Congrega- and take initiatives in missions. tionalist in governance and ad- However, we do not give much ministration. We believe in the importance to administration priesthood of all believers, and and governance. Some of our hence we recognize the work of churches, mostly in villages, the Holy Spirit in every may not even have trained pas- individual’s life. Yet in reality, tors or leaders. And those who not every member exercises are trained are rarely taught in equal authority as they are not

Baptist News, July - December 2012 13 equally mature and committed. the lay-leaders complain The congregation appoint a against dominance of pastors. group of deacons who on behalf In between, Satan gets the up- of them govern the church. This per hand. group of deacon is supposed to Question has often been asked function like a service team to to me: Who is superior—Pastor facilitate the ministry of the or Chairman of the deacon? pastor. The pastor is supposed Since the pastor is appointed by to be primarily accountable to the deacon body, obviously in this team and in turn the team the secular mind, it appears that is expected to be accountable the seat of authority lies with to the pastor. And together they the deacon and not with the are accountable to the congre- pastor. However, when pastor is gation. It is the mutual submis- seen as an employee and given sion and their common goal to no spiritual authority then the serve God that binds them to- purpose of inviting a pastor to gether as one team. the church is self-defeated. In reality, this is where Satan Biblically, the authority does not corrupts the team work. Selfish- lie in any individual or any in- ness, pride, arrogance, domi- stitution but in the Word of God. nance, prejudices, favouritism, All must submit to the author- biased opinions, theological ig- ity of the Word of God. Next to norance, spiritual immaturity, the Word of God, it is wise to lack of respect for others, un- submit to the corporate author- controlled passion, and poor ity of the body of Christ which skill of communication are the is expressed through local deadly mines that the team church and also through the members often have to walk Association of churches or Con- across. Many churches have vention of associations. It does become victims of this deadly not mean that an individual trap. Both clergy and lay lead- does not have access to God to ers have stepped on them. Pas- know what is right. It also does tors are complaining against the not mean that the community arrogance of lay leaders and

14 Baptist News, July - December 2012 is always right. But a Christian nomination. Some Baptist individual is called to live within churches are persuaded to be- a community. Hence, submis- come Believers Church, others sion to community seeking became Good Shepherd Church common good through common and still others became Meth- wisdom for Unity is a biblical odist Church. Baptist churches mandate. One must spur with are very vulnerable and hence the community to influence, to the Baptist unity. Some Baptist correct, to lead, and to be led. Association leaders feel frus- If one has to choose between trated to see their member two rights then the Biblical wis- churches scattered in their com- dom demands us to submit to mitment with their own agen- the betterment of the larger das which they are not even body of the community of be- aware of. lievers. We do not have Bishops. There In some churches, pastor rules is no hierarchy of episcopal na- alone, while in others few ture in our churches and yet hi- handful of lay leaders make ev- erarchy flows in some form in ery decisions. The majority in our churches. Either it flows the congregation are silent wor- from a dominant individual or shippers. Rules are made and it flows from a clique group to broken at the personal whims the rest of the silent worship- and interpretations of individual pers in our churches. Since or a “clique” group. The defini- there is no criterion to ascertain tion of church and its ministry, the credential of the source of with all good intention, is often authority, most of the time such constrained to the perspective practice of authority leads to of an individual or a clique anarchy in our churches. group. In some cases, the lo- Some Baptist churches empha- cal church may divide, in oth- size too much on autonomy ers, the local church may dis- while others on centralization associate itself from Associa- of power. Extreme of either tion, or still others it may emphasis has its own pros and change their name and de-

Baptist News, July - December 2012 15 cons. Too much of autonomy There are commonly agreed can weaken the governance and Constitution and Bylaws that administration at the associa- governs these bodies. tion level and too much central- On the one hand, it appears to ization can make the gover- be well organized, on the other nance and administration of the hand, anarchy still prevails. For local church weak. To strike a instance, we notice a glimpse balance is a constant struggle. of anarchy even in nomencla- The organizational structure of ture. The CBCNEI is a federated the Baptist churches under the body of six conventions and one Council of Baptist Churches in hundred associations. How- Northeast India (CBCNEI) is as ever, it is confusing when the follows: word “Council” is used inter- changeably for association as well as convention within the family. Some association name their leader as the Executive Secretary while others name them as the General Secretary. The bodies within the family function independently and hence there are overlapping of their objectives. Often they are unaware of each other’s areas Churches have come together of operations. The central body to form an Association and the which is supposed to connect Associations together have and coordinate the member formed the Conventions. And body also functions indepen- the six Conventions together dently like a third body. Hence own the Council at the top. the anarchy continues. Besides, Through Executive Body and there are leaders who run the the Annual General Body meet- body by their own individual ing at each level a consensus rights and authority. They don’t of the community is sought. like to submit to anybody but

16 Baptist News, July - December 2012 demands submission from oth- ment and accountability to the ers. Churches but build their per- sonal empire. Some of them As Baptists, we do not encour- theologically unsound, others age a common liturgy, a book are ethically objectionable; still of common prayer, Pope or others are biblically anti- Bishop which embodies an au- church. The individual mem- thority to direct and govern the bers of the churches are mis- Baptist churches. Yet a com- guided and the resources of the plete absence of consensus, churches get drained out. I was point of reference, a model to told that some individual Bap- look for, and an authoritative tist members donated a big fat body to intervene in times of sum of money to an individual need has left most churches healer but gave just a token vulnerable. Especially churches amount to the local church. in the rural area are in desper- ate need of help. No wonder why so many indi- viduals running private minis- Baptist Churches in northeast tries in the name of healing and are easy prey to cult and her- prophecies are able to build etic groups. Baptist Churches personal empires by collecting are continually losing its mem- the wealth from the Baptist bers to the new groups that are members. Some of them are our making in roads in the northeast own former church leaders. The region. They begin with a fel- church and association leaders lowship and then soon become often grumble against them. It a church. Some Baptist mem- wouldn’t be wise to call for a bers are like sheep without consultation and resolve a clear shepherd. They are gullible and instruction for our members easily lured by any ministries against such individuals who that come to them in the name drain our Church resources and of JESUS, Mission, and Spiritu- who fail to respect the author- ality. They often become a plat- ity of the local church. There form to launch and promote must be a place for confronting ministries that have no commit- these individuals, checking

Baptist News, July - December 2012 17 them out how they are commit- I did not know that the church ted to churches. Who are they needs a Constitution or By Laws accountable to? What is their Where can we find a copy of ultimate goal? Constitution? Our Baptist unity is often vio- What is Vision and Mission lated because our family agree- Statement? ments are obscure. If we have not agreed upon to be together Why do we need to write ob- for common goodness then jective of a church? parting is obvious. But even if Do we need to register our one has agreed upon and they church as a society? are not clear, then misunder- standing is likely to exist. Given Why do we need Service rules? the fact that the group has clar- Why do we need to register our ity on their agreement, there is church property? no guarantee that everybody would know it for next five Why do we need to deposit years because the leaders in money in the bank? Baptist system keep changing. Why do we need financial Hence the governance and ad- policy? ministration in the local church, Association, and Convention is I did not know that Baptist also not easy. Misunderstanding and believe in any doctrines. confusion is inevitable. [Read Baptist Confession of Faith Water becomes even muddier 1689 at the web page http:// in some places where nothing www.vor.org/truth/1689/ 1689bc00.html] exists in favour of governance and administration. I have been I thought we believe only in conducting seminars on church Baptist Distinctive. Administration and Manage- I don’t know what is the Baptist ment and I have often heard Distinctive? senior leaders asking question such as: I know that Baptist Distinctive

18 Baptist News, July - December 2012 came out of a historical context follow for the local Church. You but how do we apply them to can adapt from it. our context today? 2. This document must outline There is a need to address these the obligation of your relation- questions. The Association and ship with Association, Conven- Conventions leaders will have tion, and Council. to address them sooner or later 3. Insure that you refer to it for to keep the churches function every decision to remain on the with good governance and ad- track. ministration. Each church must know who they are, what they 4. Distribute it in every Annual have agreed to achieve, what General Body meeting for all limits them, and how they are members. going to achieve their goal. It’s the Constitution and Bye- While enjoying the freedom of laws that must be a point of the Holy Spirit, there must be a reference for all authority for set of things that must hold them governance and administration. accountable to each other in In the areas where there is lack unity. of clarity, first a consensus There are universal basics for must be sought in the Body of good governance and adminis- Christ. Elders must be re- trations which all churches spected for their wisdom but must seek to have. They are: youth must not be ignored ei- ther. Pray until consensus is A. Necessity of a Constitution achieved. Never push your idea and Byelaws (Church/Associa- forcibly by hook or crook. Ma- tion/Convention) jor on the major things and not 1. Work out a Constitution and minor. Wait for the wisdom from bylaws carefully and keep your above and pray like Solomon, members informed about it at Give me wisdom and knowl- least once in two years. Shillong edge, that I may lead this Baptist Church has one and that people, for who is able to gov- could be one good sample to ern this great people of yours?

Baptist News, July - December 2012 19 (2 Chr 1:10) Time heals as well ten lay leaders can do a better as it reveals. Waiting upon the job in these areas. Lord is often the best choice. D. Necessity of a Financial Registering your Church, asso- Policy: ciation, and Convention as a There are standard financial registered charitable society policies to prevent mishaps, may have certain benefit. Edu- human errors, and manipula- cate yourself with the state law tion. System must prevent indi- for the registered Society and vidual handling of money and trustee. Understand its pros and accounts. There must be room cons and take benefit of the law for third party annual auditing of the land. and reporting. Money must be B. Necessity of a Baptist kept in bank in joint account but Guideline for Common Standard never in an individual account. Operating Procedure: Know the law of the land and be sensitive to it. Be aware of The Association or Convention the changes in the Income Tax can call a Consultation and for- Rules and FCRA Rules. Finally, mulate a guideline on common it is not merely a good and hon- standard operating procedure est intention but actually the for all churches for various ser- good paper works that protects vices. Call for wisdom of the us from litigation. So we must elders’ experience. Learn from have a system that requires others. good ledger entry and record C. Necessity of clear Job de- keeping. scription and Service Rules for In 2 Cor 8:18-21 we notice St all employed staffs: Paul’s desire to be right both in A clearly described job descrip- the eyes of the Lord and men: tion, rules and regulations, And we are sending along with privileges and and penalty must him the brother who is praised be outlined. At the appoint- by all the churches for his ser- ment, one should acknowledge vice to the gospel. 19 What is of receiving and reading it. Of-

20 Baptist News, July - December 2012 more, he was chosen by the writing might help us to think churches to accompany us as and bring some improvement in we carry the offering, which governance and administration we administer in order to in our Baptist family. May God honor the Lord himself and to help us. show our eagerness to help. 20 Helpful Books on Administra- We want to avoid any criticism tion and Management: of the way we administer this liberal gift. 21 For we are tak- 1. Principles and Practices for ing pains to do what is right, Baptist Churches: A Guide to the not only in the eyes of the Lord Administration of the Baptist but also in the eyes of man. Churches by Edward T. Hiscox, 1980. E. Necessity of an Annual Fo- rum where all operational prob- 2. A Baptist Manual of Polity lems can be discussed and a and Practice by Norman Hill guideline for their prevention is Maring, Winthrop Still Hudson, resolved. 1991. At the level of Association, 3. Management of Christian churches must come together to Services in India Vol. 1 & 2, ed- resolve their Dos and Donts so ited by Ebe Sunder Raj, SD that they function as one body Jayakumar, and Varghese Jacob, and prevent any confusion. Such published by CIM, 2005. unity shall prevent the wrong 4. Basic Management Hand- party intruding like bad yeast book for Pastors, Missionaries, and cause damage. No com- Field Workers, Evangelists, plaints must go unheard and Seminary Students etc. com- unattended. A good governance piled by CIM Team, 2011. and administration must be aimed to bring order and unity in the Body of Christ. ***** Well, much can be said about good governance and adminis- tration, but I hope that this brief

Baptist News, July - December 2012 21 News Capsule

Missionary Training Pro- Humanitarian Assistance gram: to the victims of Ethnic CBCNEI organized a Missionary Violence in BTC Areas of Training Program from August Assam: 13 - 17, 2012 at CBCNEI Con- The communal violence in ference Centre. 38 evangelists Kokrajhar district of Assam left from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam many homeless and many lives and Manipur took part in it. Mr were lost. Most of these affect- Duane, Mr Andy, Rev Taku Long- ed people were living in Relief kumer, Rev Dr A. K. Lama and camps set up in secure places. They were afraid to go back to their own homes, fearing that bloodsheds and violence may occur any time. Seeing the situation, the Council of Baptist Church- es in North East India un- dertook a relief work on 4th-5th of September 2012. The relief was supported Rev Dr Jolly Rimai were the re- financially by the following or- source persons. Mr Mhabemo ganizations:- and Siamliana coordinated the program. 1. International Ministries (BIM) ***

22 Baptist News, July - December 2012 2. Campus Christian Fellow- tion). The relief materials in- ship, Kohima Science College clude: floor mat, bathing soap, 3. Thahekhu Baptist Church detergent, baby food, and mos- quito net. The relief was provid- 4. Guwahati Baptist Church ed to 1400 families living in 5. Guwahati Satsang Church three relief camps namely Ou- 6. Council of Baptist Church- guri (360 families), Koila Moila es in Northeast India (320 families) and Bala Gari (420 families). The relief team comprising 11 members from CBCNEI were Relief work was divided into Vikato Shikhu (Convener), three groups under the super- Aowabang (Pastor Ao Church vision of Aowabang (Ouguri), Guwahati), Senti Longkumer Sentiwabang (Bala Gari) and (Pastor NCF Guwahati), Vikato Shikhu (Koila Moila). A Kughaho Chishi (Chaplain Sumi thirty minutes program was Fellowship Guwahati), Shoudhit also held at Ouguri before the Marak (CBCNEI), Mhabemo relief work started. Relief vol- Kithan (CBCNEI), Babul (CBC- unteers and committees were NEI), Rosjit (CBCNEI), Sarkar from the village assisted by the (CBCNEI), Neon (LM Hosteler) local village elders and also and Dayouth (Kamrup Associa- from the All Assam Bodo Stu-

Baptist News, July - December 2012 23 dents’ union. The three re- lief camps were surrounded by rivers namely Ai and Langkar river, where the re- lief materials were trans- ported by country made boats and tractors. Trans- portation of relief members to the camps were done by 11 turn up for the relief was low bikers. due to communication gap; Koila Moila Relief: however, slowly at around noon time most of the beneficiaries At around 11:00 am after the started to arrive to take the re- short program at Ouguri, Mr lief materials. The distribution Vikato, the convener of the CB- of relief materials winded up CNEI relief team, gave a brief late in the evening. speech highlighting about the purpose of the relief work Ouguri Relief: through the initiative of CBC- On 5th Sept morning the team NEI. After which the relief dis- moved out from the Boro Bap- tribution began with the assis- tist Mission for the relief work tance of the locals as well as and after Aie river they reached the ABSU members. Around 320 the first destination Ouguri, families’ beneficiaries were giv- where they had a short prayer en relief assistance. Initially the meeting. The team leader Mr

24 Baptist News, July - December 2012 Vikato gave a short intro- duction about how and from where they've come. In Ouguri the team as- signed were Pastor Aowa- bang Ozukum, Pastor Khugaho Sumi and Mr Sa-

minutes to reach the camp. The relief work started from 1.30pm after a short speech by Rev. Dhojen (General Sec- retary of Boro), Baptist Church Council (BBCC). The Relief bags contained: floor mat, detergent powder, bathing gar. Along with them there were soap, mosquito net and milk for local volunteers from All Boro children aged below 4 years. Students Union ( ABSU ). There There were 396 beneficiaries in were 350 beneficiaries in this this camp coming from about 7 centre. The distribution got over nearby villages. The group by 12:00 noon without any un- members were assisted by lo- toward incident, the program cal volunteers in this regard. was peaceful. The distribution got over at 3:30 Bala Gari Relief: pm. The group left Oguri Relief Due to NESO bandh on 6th of Camp at about 10.30 am after September, distribution of relief a short prayer meeting. After at Gossiagaon was entrusted to crossing river Lankar on boat BBCA. they reached the Bala Gari Re- lief Camp at 12.30pm. The team rode on bikes for about 15-20 *** Baptist News, July - December 2012 25 Training on Disciple Mak- est unreached groups in Ma- ing and Preaching (Sept nipur. Pray for them that the 27-29): Vision of God’s Mission is de- livered through the Gospel. Meitei Baptist Churches Asso- Ten bicycles were also donat- ciation (MBA) of Manipur host- ed to the pastors of the MBA ed two and half day training pro- by TLA Ministires during the gram for 50 pastors and lay training program. leaders. The resource persons were Rev. Chris Horton, Rev. Greg Morrison, Rev. A. K. Lama, and Dr. Lev Bragg. The program was fully sponsored by Transforming Leaders in Asia (TLA) Minis- tries. Most participants expressed their grati- tude for such a program. They said that it was first of its kind *** which had addressed many practical issues of ministries. Pray for the Meitei community, New Dormitory Dedicated considered as one of the larg- (Oct 1): The General Secretary and the staff of Council of Baptist Churches in North East India(CBCNEI) dedicated much awaited 40 bed dormitory in the Conference Center, Guwahati. This has enhances the capaci- ty to 120 beds. The council felt the need to increase the capac-

26 Baptist News, July - December 2012 ity as the Confernece Centre remains booked through out the year for various programs and seminars. Guwahati being the gateway to northeast, people prefer to use the facility during transit as the compound gives them sence of security and comfort.

*** ****

Christian Literature Cen- Centenary Celebration of tre, Dimapur (Aug 27): Impur Christian Hospital Dr W. Konghar, Chairman of the (Oct 5): Christian Literature Centre, in- Impur Christian Hospital cele- augurated a 17 beds guest brated 100th years of its incep- house of CLC Dimapur for tion under the leadership of Rev Church leaders. The CLC Di- Dr Mar Atsongchanger, Execu- mapur has also been renovat- tive Secretary of ABAM, the ed. It looks new and well orga- Chairperson of ADMC, Dr S. S. nised. Please uphold the min- Aka and the members of the istries of CLC Dimapur. ADMC, the Centenary Celebra- tion of ICH was hosted with

Baptist News, July - December 2012 27 3-4, 2012 at Impur and took many im- portant decisions. The Board appointed Mr. Nig- sangtemsu Ao as the Chief Adminis- trative Officer of JCMC. All hospitals are in need of grand celebration. More than Christian Doctors and Nursing 500 delegates were present. Tutors. The pioneering work of Ameri- can Baptist Missionary couple, Dr. andMrs James R *** Bailey, who came to impur in 1909, was remembered with Celebrate Recovery gratitude. Dr. A. K. Lama, the General Secretary of CBCNEI (Oct 8 - 10): ministered the Word of God and With the sponsorship from Sum- invited ABAM leaders to carry merville Baptist Church and forth the vision by dreaming for TLA, a three day training pro- a Nursing College or a Medical gram was hosted by CBCNEI in School for the posterity. Guwahati. 47 pastors and Christian workers participated ***

Medical Board of CBCNEI (Oct 3 - 4): The representatives from the five hospitals of CBCNEI met on Oct.

28 Baptist News, July - December 2012 the program. The resource per- sons were Pastor Dana Gatewood, Ms Mary Ann Boggs, John Foster, and Denise Foster. The focus was to train the participants how to help re- cover those who are captive to various kind of addictions. sultation recommended ap- pointment of a special trustee *** to develop CBCNEI compound. They also recommended a The Board of Christian Lit- Steering Committee to guide CBCNEI in launching a full- erature Center (Oct 16): fledged ministry that will chan- The CLC Board met for one day nelize Baptist Response to var- and took several important de- ious disasters in the region. cisions. The CLC Dimapur has been given special attention for its development. A new assis- *** tant Director (Mr. Isaac Aimol) has been appointed for Imphal Executive Committee branch. The CLC released two new publications on this day. Meeting (Oct 18): Dr Kavito Zhimo, the President of CBCNEI led the Executive *** Special Consultation of CBCNEI Leaders (Oct 17): One day special consultation of CBCNEI leaders was held in Guwahati to consider the future ministries of CBCNEI. The Con-

Baptist News, July - December 2012 29 Committee members repre- as their mission fields. Since the senting the six conventions for convention is young, the local a review of the ministry of CB- association or the churches re- CNEI. All the Secretaries and main closer to the sponsoring Subcommittees presented their bodies more than their own lo- reports and their decisions cal bodies. Therefore seeing the were ratified. needs, the MBK under the ini- tiative of CBCNEI Mission De- partment organised its first ever *** Mission consultation cum pas- tors training for all the mission Mission Consultation agencies working among the Mising people with Rev Dr A. K. cum Pastors Training Lama, General Secretary, CBC- organised by Mising NEI as the Resource person. Baptist Kebang Out of 23 mission agencies 10 were present during the mis- (1 - 4 Nov): sion consultation. The mission Mising Baptist Kebang (Con- consultation ended on a posi- vention) is one of the youngest tive note with both MBK and Conventions here in North East mission agencies adopting res- India, comprising of six mem- olutions for better partnerships ber Associations in six different and coordination for the exten- districts of Assam. It is an As- sion of His Kingdom. Altogeth- sociate member of the Council er 59 pastors attended the pas- of Baptist Churches in North East India (CBCNEI), where over hundred churches are affiliated under MBK. Many churches and various mission agencies from Nagaland, Mi- zoram, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh are work- ing among the Mising people tors training organised by MBK Manipur Baptist Convention with Rev Dr A. K. Lama as the Mission Department conducted speaker for the pastors training. its 12th Mission Conference at On 4th November, Mr. Abhijit Konphung Baptist Church, Pegu, Regional Secretary, MBK Manipur. Topics such as “Bib- was given licence for conduct- lical perspective of Mission”, ing Lords Supper and Baptism. “Mission begins at home”, “The Mr Champe Doley was installed life and Responsibility of an as the new Mission Secretary by Evangelist”, and “Church and Rev Dr A. K. Lama. Mission: A Paradigm Shift” were discussed in the confer- ence. The Mission conference *** was attended by 29 evangelists and around 89 delegates con- 12th Mission Conference sisting of Church elders and pastors under LNBA. Mr R. T. LBM-LNBA-M at Kon- Johnson Raih (Principal MBC phung Baptist Church Higher Sec. School, Imphal), Rev LNBA-M (16 -18 Nov): Alani Songsir (Mission Secre- tary, MBC), Rev Z. Mairilungbou On the theme “You shall be my (Executive Secretary, LNBA-M) witness to all Nations”, the and Mr Mhabemo Kithan (Mis- Liangmai Naga Baptist Associa- sion Assistant, CBCNEI) were tion in collaboration with the resource persons. The participants were blessed through this mission conference and expressed their gratitude to LNBA-M, MBC and CBCNEI for the fruitful confer- ence. *** White Memorial Hostel, hostel in NE states where pio- Guwahati celebrates 75th neer women education seekers Years Jubilee (Nov 24): lived while there was no ques- tion of shelter for women. In his White Memorial Hostel, the speech he stressed on sincere- first college going girl’s hostel ly to preserve this unique hos- in the North East India, estab- tel as heritage without chang- lished in 1937 celebrated her 75 ing the original structure be- years Jubilee on in Guwahati on cause he opined that develop- the theme “ Triumphant Virtu- ment means destruction of the ous Women”. White Memorial original beauty. The Speaker of Hostel is a part of the hostel the occasion was Rev Dr K. Zhi- ministry under Council of Bap- mo, President CBCNEI. He spoke tist Churches in North East In- from the book of Esther. Recol- dia (CBCNEI). lecting the nostalgia of the hos- Rev Dr A.K Lama, the General tel life, eminent pioneer alum- Secretary shared greetings on ni Ms Norun Sangma, Mrs Maya behalf of CBCNEI. Shri. Khekiho Ingti John, Mrs Sano Vamuzo, Zhimomi, Hon’ble Member of Chairperson Women Commis- Parliament, Nagaland graced sion, Nagaland expressed with the occasion as the Chief emotion of their past life in this Guest. He deeply appreciated hostel. the existence of this unique The second session was the En- tertainment and alumni get together. The Jubilee Celebra- tion was well attend- ed by many alumni, distinguished guests and scholars.

***

32 Baptist News, July - December 2012 Norun Sangma, Former Suptd. of White Memorial Hostel (On the occasion of 75th year celebration of WM Hostel date 24th Nov. 2012)

First of all I extend my “NA- with them. Any way the Gen- MASKAR” to you all do day eral Secretary Rev. Imotemjen my heart is full of great joy to Aier and late Rev. Sumkholen be able to come to this place Serto encouraged me to help and attend the Platinum Ju- the young girls. Gladly I joined bilee of the White Memorial with the workers of the hos- Hostel. I also extend my tel and with the girls and it thanks to the warden the stu- was not too heavy .The hos- dents and members of the tel workers and the girls all Platinum Jubilee’s Program were happy, they were very Committee for their invita- helpful and co-operative. tion. For the night time I asked the At first I did not want to ac- girls to collect pieces of bricks, cept this big responsibility as stones and sticks and keep in I was afraid of the grown up the room and at night when college girls. I though it would they hear me calling them to not be easy for me to deal come down to help me. One night one man came tried to Baptist News, July - December 2012 33 open the doors. My nephew a fun. After he was taken by was with me. I woke him up the police girls laughed like and we two went out to see anything. I appreciated girls who he was. My nephew had for their co-operation. a big dao in his hand. Bravely While I was helping in the he looked for that person. White Memorial hostel, Miss Three times he hid and Suderman and Dr. &. Mrs. couldn’t find him. All the girls Baruah they were always came down with pieces of ready to help me, advised me. bricks, stones and sticks. My nephew was done looking for Miss Burnham thought the him and we all waiting brave- hostel was already closed. But ly. He was hiding behind the when Miss Suderman went to old cowshed. My nephew America and told about me, saw him, caught him and the students and the beauti- dragged him and tied him ful flower garden, she was and to a tree. The girls laughed very happy. at him, heat him, kicked him It was very very hard to leave broke his wrist watch and my third sweet home White said to him “Laz loga nai” (Are Memorial Hostel, where I had you not ashamed) peace and joy and blessings Dr. Ananta Baruah was called, from God! he came out phoned to tha- na and after few minutes a May the good Lord bless and full jeep of police came and keep all of them. took him with them. I too had Amen a stick in my hand and pushed and heat him. The girls were very brave and co- ***** operative. That was just like

34 Baptist News, July - December 2012 An excerpt taken from “These my Brethren”, edited and compiled by Ada P. Stearns, published by Woman’s American Baptist Foreign Mission Society

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12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567 38 Baptist News, July - December 2012 New Appointments The council has appointed the following for the various posts:

Mr Issac Lunglai is from Aimol Chingnunghut Baptist Church, Chandel district, Manipur. He earned his MBA from Sikkim Manipal Univer- sity, Shillong. He is appoined as the Assistant Director of CLC Imphal Branch from August this year.

Mr N. Mhabemo Kithan is from old Changsu village, Wokha, Nagaland. He completed his BD after BA from Eastern Theological College. He has joined the Council as Mission Assis- tant from July 2 this year.

Mr Ningthoujam Rojit Singh hails from Phay- eng, Imphal West, Manipur. He served the Manipur Baptist Convention as a driver for three years. He has joined the Council as a Driver from July 2 this year.

Mr Siamliana Khiangte comes from Guwahati, Assam. He completed his BSc. from Shillong. He worked as a Group Leader in NIIT Shillong Centre. He joined the Council as a Program Coordinator from July 2 this year.

Mr Lendup Tshering Lepcha is from Lower Dabling Basti, Kalimpong. He worked as a cook in Pine Brook restaurent Shillong for four year. He joined the Council as a Cook from July 2 this year.

Baptist News, July - December 2012 39 By R. T. Johnson Raih, Principal MBC Higher Sec. School, Imphal

THE BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE OF REST

‘Rest is the best for health’, sitions of a human body; sitting, some people say. Rest is indeed squatting, sleeping or lying important in maintaining a bal- down, leaning, kneeling etc. anced life as we live in an ac- Further, when we talk of rest, tion-oriented world! There is certain furniture like bed, chair, always something to do and no couch, stool, sofa etc, come to time to rest. Yet God demon- our imagination. But what does strated that physical rest is ap- this term or concept mean from propriate and right when he the biblical perspective? said, “Come with me by your- Firstly, rest as complete ceas- selves to a quiet place and get ing of work. If we trace the ori- some rest” (Mark 6: 31- 32). Our gin of this term in the Bible we normal understanding of rest is come across in Gen 2: 2 which associated with the various po-

40 Baptist News, July - December 2012 says, “By the seventh day God heavy burden for as long as had finished the work he had they could remember. Some been doing; so on the seventh people found the way to unbur- day he rested from all his work.” den their load early in life The concept of rest mentioned whereas some very late. Some here is ‘ceasing’ from work af- sadly end their lives without ter the completion of the cre- knowing where to unburden ation of the world and the uni- themselves. Many people car- verse by God. However when we ry their burden to the school/ reach Ex 20: 8; 31: 15 the con- college/ university/ work place, cept of rest takes an elevated and then bring it home to only meaning. Here God tells Moses pick it up and carry the same or to tell the Israelites to keep the heavier load tomorrow... con- Sabbath as a holy day by ob- tinuously going in a circle. They serving and honouring it and do not know where to unburden not doing anything on this day. themselves and live a life of Remember, here the Sabbath freedom. Jesus is offering rest day was to be observed in ho- to such people. This rest is the nour of God and not necessari- unburdening moment of their ly because human beings have lives and the beginning of a new completed the different kinds of life of freedom; freedom from work in their life and cease from the penalty and power of sin. work like God. Thirdly, rest as the ultimate plan Secondly, rest as a point of un- of God. When Jesus was about burdening and new beginning. to leave his disciples for heav- Jesus invites everyone who is en, the disciples were torn tired and burdened in carrying apart with fear and insecurity. heavy load and he will give Then Jesus comforted them that each of them rest (Matt 11: 28). he is going to heaven to pre- There are many people in this pare a place for them. He as- world who have carried their sured them that there are many

Baptist News, July - December 2012 41 rooms in his father’s house. He God and spoke with him face to promised them that he’d come face, as a man speaks with his back and take them to where he fried (Ex 33: 11). Moses reminds is (Jn 14: 1-4). It will be the day God that this nation is his peo- when creation will be renewed ple (Ex 33: 13). Then God spoke and restored, every mark of sin forth one of the most amazing will be removed, and the world concepts of rest in the Bible. He will be made perfect again. It said, “My Presence will go with will be the moment in history you, and I will give you rest.” when life will be full of rest and (Ex 33: 14). Moses’ prayer was peace because rest is the ulti- answered but he continued to mate plan of God. bargain by saying, “If your Pres- ence does not go not with us, Finally, rest as the abiding pres- do not send us up from here”. ence of God. Hoping for com- (Ex 33: 15). plete rest one day in heaven is a good thing. To unburden one’s Great leaders can become so heavy load at one point of time tired, stressed and even almost in history is very essential. But burnt out after great victories for me the more immediate and and achievements. Prophet Eli- helpful concept as a resident of jah after the triumphant Mt. this world before we go home Carmel episode ran away to is this last paradigm; rest in the Beersheba in Judah and then midst of action. God was tell- walked another day’s journey ing Moses and the Israelites into the desert and sat down that he will give them the land under a broom tree and prayed flowing with milk and honey that he might die (I Kings 19: 3- but that he would not go up with 4). The famous Samson after them because they were a stiff- killing 1000 men with the jaw necked people (Ex 33: 3). At this bone of a donkey cried out to Moses and the people were so God for he was thirsty. He ques- grieved. Moses reasoned with tioned God if he would be made

42 Baptist News, July - December 2012 to die and fall into the hands of everyday activities. Jesus’ final the circumcised (Jud 15: 16- 18). comforting words to his disci- Pastors, mission workers, ples were, “Peace I leave with teachers, politicians, contrac- you, my peace I give unto you: tors, bureaucrats, doctors, en- not as the world giveth, give I gineers etc, will all get tired unto you. Let not your heart be emotionally and spiritually on troubled, neither let it be this road of life. But should we afraid” (Jn 14: 27). Experienc- panic and be like people with- ing God’s peace and joy in the out hope? Doesn’t the Bible tell midst of our sorrow, accidents, us that the youths will grow deaths, misfortune, hurts, weary, and young men stumble tears, injustice, wrong accusa- and fall but those who hope in tions, sickness etc, helps us to the Lord will renew their experience continual rest in the strength (Isa 40: 28- 31)? journey of our lives. In Christ we have peace. As we continue to When the boat Jesus and his live on until the earth and the disciples were travelling in was heavens all wear out like a gar- rocked by the storm (Matt 8: 23- ment and rolled up like a robe 27), while Jesus was undis- (Heb 1: 11- 12), let us remem- turbed, the disciples panicked ber that true rest is not in the and became like a dwarf in their position of our bodies nor is it faith. I can almost hear the un- associated with the furniture of spoken rebuke of Jesus toward our homes and time of the day the disciples, “Can the sea (night). But true rest resides in swallow its Master; Can the the presence of God in our wind trample his boat; Is your lives! future in danger; Is there any- thing I can’t do; So why do you fear, ye of little faith, when I am ***** near?” God’s presence with us is always a continual rest in our

Baptist News, July - December 2012 43 By Cheryl Ford, California A Life Changing Revelation

Have you ever felt that you don’t to my parent’s expectations, meet God’s standards, and that and now as an adult I didn’t live you are less than you should be up to God’s. as a Christian? It is hard to walk How could this be when I tried in peace and confidence as a so hard to please Him? That woman of God when the broken was my problem. I came to the world around us so devalues us. Lord for salvation by His gener- Our parents fail to instill in us ous grace but now was striving healthy self-esteem because to earn His favor. My legalism they don’t have it to give. blocked the flow of His grace. I I was a dedicated pastor’s wife seemed to spend my life crying, serving God tirelessly in vari- “Who will rescue me from this ous ministries. But no matter body of death?” (Romans 7:24) how I served, I felt like a worth- One year I could take no more. less failure. I had never lived up Something had to change. I 44 Baptist News, July - December 2012 chose to fast pray and seek God my King Jesus. His throne, un- earnestly. The Holy Spirit re- like earthly thrones, is a throne plied with a revelation that of grace(Hebrews 4:16). He changed my life forever. I know gives an open invitation, saying that if you suffer similarly, it will “Come to me. I love you and help you too, I had known God want you to know that my scep- loves me but felt He could not ter is ALWAYS extended to you. tolerate me. He loved me I even wait for you to come. I enough to save me, but it will never leave you standing seemed that whenever I outside.” prayed, He said to Himself, “Oh And not only has that, but He no, here comes the whiner. I’ve even invited me to come and sit got to go hide from her.” with Him. The Bible calls it be- But on that particular day, I saw ing seated with Christ in the an opposite picture. First, I saw heavenly realms (Epp. 2:6) Queen Esther going fearfully From then on I learned to share before her King, unsure she my guilt and condemnation would survive the experience. aside and march boldly to His Anyone who approached the throne of grace, where I throne uninvited would be put touched His golden scepter and to death. The only exception received His approval. was if the king held out (his “golden scepter”) to spare his And this grace is for you, too, or her life. But the king hadn’t dear sisters in Christ. He loves called for Esther in a month. you more than you can imagine. She feared the worst if she ap- He wants to enjoy your pres- proached the throne uninvited. ence. He wants to answer your But to her great relief the King prayers. Let Him welcome you did extend his scepter and to His throne of grace. His grace spared her. (Esther 4:5 truly is amazing! Then I saw myself going before *****

Baptist News, July - December 2012 45 A Note of Appreciation CBCNEI expreses appreciation and gratitude to those individuals, churches, fellowships and organizations who have been partnering/supporting the Ministries of CBCNEI through their sacrificial giving. The following contributions have been received by us.

Towards Mission Project 1. Dakopgre Baptist Church, Tura ` 15,000 2. Dr Dave Register ` 1,20,000 3. Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur ` 4,000 4. Manipur Baptist Convention ` 8,000 5. Naga Christian Fellowship, Ghy/Shillong ` 21,600 6. Rongkhon Songgital Baptist Church, Tura` 15,000 7. Sumi Baptist Akukubu Kuqhakulu-A ` 90,000 8. Wokha Baptist Church ` 21,000

Assam Ethnic Conflict 1. Campus Christian Fellowship, Kohima Science College ` 21,782 2. Thahekhu Baptist Church ` 5,000 3. Guwahati Baptist Church, Guwahati ` 25,800 4. Guwahati Satsang Church ` 7,777

CBCNEI DAY OF PRAYER 1. Mishmi Baptist Church Council ` 5,000 2. Dibang Lohit Baptist C. Association ` 10,000 3. Nokte Baptist Churches Association ` 9,240 4. Yagrung Adi Baptist Church, SABA ` 424 5. Zomi Baptist Church, Mizoram ` 718

Mr Pawan Bhuyan Property cum Finance Secretary 46 Baptist News, July - December 2012 By Rev Dr J. Rimai, Mission Secretary, CBCNEI Making Greater Impact in Mission: Streamlining & Partnership

Introduction: The North East could be because of our ap- Baptist Churches are by and proach to mission. For many large mission minded churches. churches the concept of mission I am encouraged to see many has been narrowed down so churches and Associations al- much so that they feel simply ready sending so many mission- paying Rs.3000 to a person is aries and have invested so enough to say they are involv- much in the mission field. God, ing in mission. Yes they are, but in His goodness, has also as we all know, mission is much blessed our humble efforts by more than that. Recruiting Mis- making our work fruitful in sionaries, training them, super- many fields. However, all is not vising, member care is lacking well in mission. so much in our mission work. Though many of us are aware, In spite of sending so many mis- with our limited resources, sionaries, the impact has been building all these logistics and very minimal, especially mis- infrastructures in every local sion outside the North East. It Church level is not possible. Baptist News, July - December 2012 47 Therefore, it is important for us necessarily hit bird”, we need to relook our work and see how to be more intentional and we can be more effective; mak- more focused in our mission ing greater impact in our mis- work. It is not wrong to give fi- sion efforts. nancial support to mission or- Individualism: In general, I feel, ganizations that are sending we have become too individu- missionaries. But at the end of alistic and have developed a the day, we should be able to negative competitive spirit say “by the grace of God we within our own church. We want were able to harvest these”. to take pride in the ‘Number of The final goal of Mission is win- Missionaries’ we sent and not ning souls to Christ, but to in the impact we make. We achieve it, we have to encour- should be able to see the har- age our members to continue to vest from God’s point of view; support the mission. We need it is His harvest and we all part- to show to them what the Lord ner with Him in it. Our passion has blessed us through our and enthusiasm for mission has humble obedience. made us involved in it and has The problem with simply spon- taken us to the extreme of send- soring missionaries through ing missionaries at the indi- mission organizations is that, vidual, family, and local church we are not being focused and level without properly working intentional. It is not wrong to out a strategy. In the process, sponsor some missionaries as there has been a lot of confu- they are also sharing the word sions. Some feel frustrated, of God, but what I am saying is, burned out, and even cheated in doing so, we simply let the in the mission work. organization achieve what they Intentional and focused: As an plan. We don’t have a target and old proverb says, “Every stone we are not into accomplishing thrown in the jungle does not it. If we want a catch, we need to focus and be very intentional

48 Baptist News, July - December 2012 in our approach. With all these mentioned, it Resources: Fourthly, we need to may be necessary for us to re- be realistic in our approach to visit the missionary work of the mission. Many of us would American Baptist Mission (In- agree that we are very rich in ternational Ministries). human resources and not very Revisiting International Min- rich financially. There are hun- istries in North East India: dreds and thousands of people The impact of the missionary who wanted to be missionary, endeavor of the American Bap- but we have very little financial tist Mission is seen in the life resources to support them. of the Baptist churches in North Therefore, we need to be wise East India today. By the grace enough to make good judgment of God, they have done well in on how we can make greater their missionary endeavor. The impact with the resources we mission policy and the strategy have. For example; it will not be they have adopted to win souls a very wise decision to send a to Christ were relevant to the missionary to European coun- given situation and the time. It tries or other countries where may be important for us to the cost of living is high or relook and evaluate so that it where we have to spend more will help us to see the need of than Rs. 50,000 as salary every our time as well. month. The impact it will make as compared to the financial One of the main reasons why resources we may invest will they were fruitful could be be- not balance. It will drain out fi- cause their mission approach nancial resources from the was holistic. They helped church within few years. Hence people improve their living con- it may be wiser to send 5 mis- dition through providing the sionaries with the above money immediate needs in the form of to the place where would man- the followings: age well. 1. Education: Establishing

Baptist News, July - December 2012 49 schools, translating books, and disheartened by the external even inventing scripts for them, oppositions in the field or at 2. Health: Establishing hospi- home. Once they are stationed, tals and clinics for them and they ensured that churches are also teaching them hygienic liv- planted that are made self suf- ing, ficient. Today, by the grace of God, they can rejoice in what 3. Skills: They taught the the Lord has done through their people skills such as carpentry, humble efforts. etc. The Need: They were able to do all these because they have a strong It has become imperative for us home support; united and fo- to relook our efforts and see if cused. Their investment in one there are areas we need to im- mission field is enormous as we prove in our mission works. can still see them in the form Working together: The local of Hospitals and Mission Cen- autonomy of Baptist churches ters in our own land. This is has, in some way, contributed possible because of their con- to make us believe that mission certed effort. belongs to individual family, lo- Secondly, they did not end in cal churches, societies, associa- sending sponsorship money to tions, and Convention. It is very the mission field, but monitored natural for us to say, “My Mis- them by placing their own sion, or Our Mission”. This has people in the field who would negatively affected the mission continually write back reports, work in a sense that we want asking prayers support and in- to do it ‘alone’. We don’t want forming the needs in the fields. others coming to the area where we are working. But the Thirdly, they were very inten- question is, can we really do it tional in their approach. They all ‘alone’? were not easily discouraged or For example, in a village where

50 Baptist News, July - December 2012 there is no water supply, every · Lack of proper supervi- family needed a water pond. sion; no training = lack They all dug their own pond for of discipleship, No one week. In the end of the member care, week they found out that they · You can be easily fooled were not able to dig big and deep enough to get water. Lat- · Burn out from too many ter they decided to dig together demands for the village, and eventually · Unable to help in infra- got water sufficient for all the structure villagers. · Once you decide to stop Strong points in working in- sponsorship it gets lost dividually: No doubt, there are · Doubling of sponsorship strong reasons why we should work alone, such as, · Your endeavor not re- corded • Get to know the evan- gelist and the field · No impact left behind (sense of satisfaction). Secondly when you work to- • You can visit anytime gether, you are also encourag- and help the church. ing/enabling the smaller/ weaker churches to be also in- • You can call something volved in mission. They, on their for your own. own, are unable to support any • Easier to raise fund missionary or evangelist, but from the church mem- with you they can also share bers. their resources to the measure Weak points: However, there the Lord has blessed them with are more weak points than and support missionaries. strong points if we work alone. Conclusion: Looking into all · How much can an indi- these issues, I want to point out vidual really achieve? few points for discussions so

Baptist News, July - December 2012 51 that we can make greater im- here at home and also pact in our mission. in the mission fields. At 1. Streamlining: In order to home it is important make greater impact in that we partner each mission, it is necessary other for more strength that we streamline all to meet challenges in the mission activities the field. In the mission through the church and field we need to partner work together at the with the existing church churches Association for better understanding level. In this we can pull and proper supervision. our resources both hu- This helps in avoiding man and finance to- unwanted confusions, gether. This will help us conflict and misunder- in many areas in mis- standings in the field. sion work such as; field This will also help us in survey, strategy plan- times of troubles and ning, recruiting right difficulties in the field. candidates, training Looking at the potentials and them for cross cultural opportunities, and the impact mission, proper supervi- we make, it is time for us to sion, member care, work together. We need to be withdrawal plan, etc. more focused and intentional in 2. Partnership: There is our approach. We should not be this new paradigm shift satisfied by simply sending in mission which will money to the mission organiza- come to us very soon, tions to do the mission work. We and that is partnership should be part of the work for of churches; a shift from which we are called. agencies to churches. This applies to both *****

52 Baptist News, July - December 2012 By Rev Taku Longkumer, Development Workers under International Ministries (ABCUSA) PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD

Listen to the reading of the Old vation that come from the hand Testament , “Arise shine for the of God. light has come, and the glory of Through history Christians lit the Lord is risen upon you”. Isa candles as a symbol of the light 60:1-3 of hope that shines from Christ Light is a precious gift from God. and the glorious salvation, He In the beginning God said, “Let gives to us sinners who live in there be light”. Now during the spiritual darkness without winter months of the year it gets Christ. The Advent wreath was dark quite early. Imagine developed to help Christians people who are living without meditate during Advent, the electric lights. Many of them church season that helps us fo- relied on oil lamps or firewood. cus on the first and second com- The Bible often uses darkness ing of Christ. for sin, evil as well as fear and Advent is from the Latin word despair. Light is used as a sym- means arrival or approach, or bol for the mercy, love and sal- coming. Advent is the arrival, Baptist News, July - December 2012 53 the approach, the coming of the another looking around at the Lord Jesus Christ into the world present and the third into the through His birth. In North East future. India many of our churches do When I say, to the past, which not observe this Advent season. means Advent is the historical The Advent season starts on fulfillment . It was not just the fourth Sunday before Christ- prophecy any more. The Advent mas. The real reason for the we hope for the birth of Jesus season is to mark the waiting now as a rememberance of an for and the preparation for the historical event. The historical birth of our Lord and savior record said to have occurred in Jesus Christ. Bethlehem during the time of These four Sundays before Caesar Augustus. The Biblical Christmas are focused on four records and stories from Mat- important topic such as Hope, thew and Luke support the his- Peace, Joy and Love. This year torical record. Jesus is already (2012) the first Sunday of Ad- born and Christmas has become vent will be on the 2nd Decem- a birthday and not a due date. ber, the first Sunday. I would But we should not forget the like to share the first Sunday of other two aspects of advent. Advent “HOPE”. The expectation of both present Hope means, hoping when and a future coming of the things are hopeless or it is no Christ. virtue at all. As long as mat- The hope of Christ coming is not ters are really hopeful, hope is just a past history or prophecy, mere flattery. It is only when but everyday in our lives. The everything is hopeless that hope of Christ working and ful- hope begins to be a strength. filling his promises is very real So Advent is a season of hope and important. This not just a and expectation with three promise which was fulfilled faces each looking in a differ- once and for all at Bethlehem, ent direction. One to the past, as a single historical event, but

54 Baptist News, July - December 2012 this is a promise which is ful- knee shall bow and every filled over and over again not tongue shall confess that Jesus just at Christmas, but at any is Lord”. One day this future time and in any place when we Advent will be fully fulfilled and experience the indwelling of the God’s reign will be fully known Holy Spirit. It is the promise everywhere. from despair to hope, from Christ has come and died for us, darkness to light. The presence Christ rose from the dead and of God comes in many forms or He is our Immanuel, He is ways. The presence of God present here among us, work- (Immanuel) can come at any ing in us through us, Christ will moment, even in suffering, come in glory. Let us seek God such as a death or accident, with all our hearts. I pray that serious illness, joyous time, at the beginning of this Advent the birth of a baby, recovery season will shed light so you from an illness, the achieve- may see the sign given unto ment of a lifelong goal etc. So us….may see Christ moving in advent is not just about the past, your life…..may feel His comfort but it is about the ways in which and hope from seeing these God comes to us in the present things. May you really prepare and can and does come to us yourselves this Advent for at any moment and at any time. Christmas to truly experience Because His name is Immanuel the hope of forgiveness, the (God with us). hope of eternal life, the hope The scripture has even more to of joy, peace and love given to say about the future Advent. us through the birth of Jesus The cosmic renewal, the new Christ. world, new heaven, the change that last forever. When things will be as God initially intended ***** at creation. This hope is still yet to fulfill. That day “every

Baptist News, July - December 2012 55 FORTH-COMING CBCNEI TRAINING PROGRAMS

November 27 - 30, 2012 Global Mission Consultation, sponsored by CBCNEI

December 13 - 15, 2012 Music Worship Seminar, co-sponsored by CBCNEI & BIM

January 14 - 18, 2013 Langham Preaching Seminar, sponsored by Langham Preaching

February 1 - 3, 2013 Finance Management & FCRA Training, sponsored by CBCNEI

February 7 - 9, 2013 Family Enrichment Seminar, co-sponsored by TLA & CBCNEI

March 11 - 15, 2013 Pastor’s Conference, co-sponsored by TLA & CBCNEI

Visit www.cbcnei.com for information, update and download of Baptist News, event calendar & forms.

56 Baptist News, July - December 2012 By Rev Dr A. K. Lama, General Secretary, CBCNEI Mission: Ex Deus et Ex Humanus

I. Introduction sible that with all good inten- Christian Mission is ex tion a Christian mission may Deus (from God) as well as ex entail with it—confusion, mis- Humanus (from human being). understanding, division, dis- It is from God, of God, and for trust, suspicion, blame, and bad God. Yet human intellect, which relationships. We may be 80% is a gift from God, is a neces- right and only 20% wrong, and sity in making it happen. How- yet the 20%, though small, can ever, human intellect is not free undermine all the right done. from presuppositions, perspec- Undoubtedly, Mission effort re- tive, prejudices, cultural biases, quires constant reflection on fear, ignorance, pride, fear, the what we are doing and how we desire of freedom from any ac- are doing. countability and various human II. Philosophy of Mission limitations. Therefore, it is pos- What is the philosophy of your Baptist News, July - December 2012 57 mission? essentials and the core values The question may sound ridicu- of the teachings of the Holy lous to a missionary or any mis- Bible), reality (understanding of sion agency. We would nor- social, religious , political, and mally ask about Vision, Mission, economical context), and a and Methodology. We might critical consideration of the ex- question about the commitment isting and possible results and of a missionary or financial sta- their implications (learning from bility of a sending agency, or at the two thousand years of the the most, we may question history of the missions of about their theology. Church). Usually, we don’t talk about the Hence the philosophy of mis- philosophy of mission. We talk sion embodies in itself the the- about philosophy of education ology of mission, the ethics of and science but not of mission. mission, and the wisdom of mis- Some may talk about it in the sion (the best applied ethics). academic set up, but rarely It needs to be articulated by the while orienting a missionary. I missionary who is on the mis- suggest that we talk about it sion field. And its articulation sooner than later. would often depend on the depth of the virtues a mission- What is philosophy? ary has acquired. This is why Philosophy, in academic set up, the intensity of the problem on is defined differently but I the mission field is direct re- would adapt it in following flection of who the missionary terms. as a person is. Hence, continu- Philosophy of Mission com- ous orientation, training, and prises a set of views and theo- support of a missionary with a ries of a particular philosopher right philosophy of mission are (in our case the source is the indispensable. Holy Bible and the Holy Spirit The first component of the phi- who inspired it), the fundamen- losophy of mission is the knowl- tal nature of knowledge (the edge of the Holy Scripture and

58 Baptist News, July - December 2012 our continued learning from the character of a new commu- Holy Spirit. Biblical mission nity? must be grounded in the Bibli- about the ultimate goal of cal Theology. A study of sociol- missions? ogy, anthropology, culture and other skills are helpful; how- Biblical theology mandates the ever, it is the understanding of following: Biblical theology that would Vision: All may glorify God of determine how biblical the par- the Bible ticular mission is. Samuel Mission: To save people from Escobar rightly emphasized, the penalty of sin (evangelism) Biblical scholarship and theol- and from the power of sin (dis- ogy are therefore foundational cipleship) points of reference for missiological work. (p.22) Objectives: What constitutes our biblical 1. To present the whole theology? gospel relevant to the context We need to ask questions such 2. To facilitate establish- as: ing of a witnessing community, a body of Christ, who is able to What is essential and non- interpret and apply the gospel essential in our mission? in their context. How do we understand the 3. To educate the new Biblical concept of Church? community to seek love and What is a local Church? unity with other existing follow- What is a universal Church? ers of Christ so that they can Is there anything called together become a powerful independent and isolated witnessing community. To have Church? functional understanding with fellow Christians and not do the What does the Bible teach things that divides the local us about goal of faith? Christian community. [Essential about unity and love? unites but non-essential di-

Baptist News, July - December 2012 59 vides]. questions about implications of 4. To enable the estab- our mission? lished new community become What are the implications mature and multiply on their of what are we doing? own. how are we doing? We need to check whether our negative campaign? Vision, Mission, and Objectives are aligned to the biblical the- methods of control? ology. the guiding principles? II. Transforming our theology Does the end justify the means? into our Ethics: Is misrepresentation, manipula- The second component of tion, and monopolization right the philosophy is facing the re- in mission? ality (understanding of social, What kinds of ethics are appli- cultural, religious, political, and cable in a given situation? economical context). What do we want to ulti- Our theology must be made mately achieve through our relevant to the context. It must mission effort? determine our ethics that is pragmatic. Corporate authority or indi- vidual authority? What kind of life style? behaviour? cloths? food habit? Personal vision or perpetu- ation of vision? What is prevalent? What is assumed in the minds of Personal empire or the King- people? dom of God? Is there any ethical guideline How do they fall in line with the for our Mission? teaching of the Bible? If so, how are they influenced Application of ethics must be and guided by our biblical the- sensitive to social, cultural, re- ology? ligious, political and economi- cal context. We should also ask the

60 Baptist News, July - December 2012 We are constantly judged by tion but it is entirely another our conscience as well people thing to have wisdom. There are around us who interpret us ac- things that may apparently look cording to their yard stick. right, legal, and good and yet III. Transforming Knowledge may cause damages that are serious in nature. Mission is not into Wisdom: only about right theology but The third component of the also ethics that is right and ap- Philosophy of Mission is criti- propriate. cal consideration of the exist- St. Paul wrote, All things are law- ing and possible results and ful for me, but not all things are their implications (learning from profitable. All things are lawful the two thousand years of the for me, but I will not be mas- history of the missions of tered by anything. (1Co 6:12 Church). NAS) Most problems on the Mission It is not only right means field are not new. They are rep- but also right end result. etition of the same from the It is not only reaching the past. Likewise, no debate and destination but taking the com- consultation on the subject is munity along with us. It’s not also new. Many books are writ- about how fast we arrive at the ten and published. Our library spot but how safe we arrive. is full of them. The traffic sign better late than We are fortunate we have more never does have some lesson than 2000 years of church his- even for mission work. tory. We can learn from the past Hence, wisdom is needed. and shape our present. We are The wisest man of the world blessed with more than one wrote, 13 Now all has been option. heard; here is the conclusion of In other words, we have options the matter: Fear God and keep to be wiser than our predeces- his commandments, for this is sors. We can choose to be wise. the duty of all mankind. 14 For It is one thing to have informa- God will bring every deed into

Baptist News, July - December 2012 61 judgment, including every hid- Recommended Books: den thing, whether it is good or Bishop Dr Ezra Sargunam, ed., evil. (Eccl 12:13-14) Mission Mandate II, 2006. We need wisdom to uphold Chan-Sik Park & Noah Jung, ed., our united common witness, 21C New Nomad Era and Mi- wisdom to trust in God, and wis- grant Mission, 2010. dom to seek not only His King- dom but also His righteousness Echard J. Schnabel, Early Chris- on top priority. tian Mission: Paul and the Early Church, Vol 1 & 2, 2004. If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives gen- John Stott, Christian Mission in erously to all without finding the Modern World, 2008 fault, and it will be given to you. Roger E. Hedlund, Roots of the (James 1:5) Great Debate in Mission: His- torical and Theological Per- Conclusion: spective, Series 3, 1993. Yes we need to draw a succinct S. D. Ponraj, The Mark of a Mis- and carefully thought philoso- sionary: Essential Qualifications phy of Biblical Mission. How- for a Missionary, 1997. ever, the greatest challenge Samuel Escobar, The New Glo- would be how to nurture them bal Mission: The Gospel from in the minds and hearts of our Everywhere to jealous and passionate mis- sionaries on the mission field. Everywhere, 2003. I believe what is impossible Vinoth Ramachandra, The Recov- with man is possible with God ery of Mission: Beyond the Plu- and hence our effort must be ralist Pradigm, 1996. persistent and consistent. Soli Deo Gloria!

*****

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1234567890123456789012345678901212The Editor, Baptist News ead 1234567890123456789012345678901212 1234567890123456789012345678901212CBCNEI Miision Compound 1234567890123456789012345678901212

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Edited and published by CBCNEI, Panbazar, Guwahati, Assam - 781001, India Printed by: Fairgraphics, Bamunimaidan, Guwahati 64 Baptist News, July - December 2012