Kangpokpi’s SCBC women’s department marks 75 years of faith and service

The South Changoubung Baptist Church (SCBC) Women’s Department in Manipur’s Kangpokpi district on January 15 formally inaugurated its Platinum Jubilee celebrations, marking 75 years of sustained spiritual, social and community service. 

The two-day programme culminated with a series of solemn and symbolic events reflecting the department’s long-standing commitment to faith, service and unity.

The opening ceremony began with a prayer of thanksgiving, acknowledging God’s guidance and grace over seven and a half decades of service. In his welcome address, the Church Chairman reflected on the department’s journey since its inception, highlighting resilience, sacrifice and unwavering faith as its defining pillars.

A key moment of the programme was the hoisting of the Platinum Jubilee flag by Rev Thangsat Kipgen, Chief Guest, on behalf of Kangpokpi MLA Nemcha Kipgen. The flag hoisting marked the formal commencement of the Jubilee year, symbolising unity, hope and steadfast faith. The ceremony was followed by the release of Jubilee balloons and a gun salute, adding dignity to the historic occasion.

Another significant highlight was the implantation of the Jubilee flag by the guests and contingents, signifying continuity and collective responsibility to uphold Christian values. The Jubilee Choir then rendered the theme song based on “The Lord Is My Banner” (Exodus 17:15), reinforcing the spiritual focus of the celebrations.

The programme also witnessed the ribbon cutting and dedication of the newly constructed Jubilee Hall by event minister Pastor Songthang Lotzem, who offered prayers dedicating the hall for God’s glory and community service. In her keynote address, Women’s Department Chairperson Kimlam Vaiphei underscored the crucial role of women in strengthening the Church’s spiritual and moral foundations, attributing the department’s achievements to divine guidance.

Speeches by the Chief Guest, Guests of Honour and other dignitaries acknowledged the SCBC Women’s Department as a pillar of faith and discipline, urging members to remain rooted in God’s word. The opening day concluded with special performances and a vote of thanks by the Jubilee Committee Chairperson.

The concluding day was marked by the unveiling of the Jubilee monolith by Pastor Songthang Lotzem, symbolising the enduring legacy of the Church. This was followed by the release of the Jubilee Souvenir by Rev S Vaiphei, documenting the department’s history and milestones. Pastor Paotingen Vaiphei delivered the Jubilee message, calling on the congregation to continue the Church’s mission with renewed faith and commitment.

The celebrations concluded with a closing prayer, committing the Jubilee year to God’s guidance. The Platinum Jubilee observance stood as a testament to 75 years of faith-driven service, reaffirming the Women’s Department’s belief that its journey has unfolded under the unfailing banner of the Lord.