VOl. XVI Oct-Dec. 2008 No. 52

PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 1 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW VOl. XVI Oct - Dec. 2008 No. 52 Presbyterian Church, Ramhlun North: Venue of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod 2008 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 Presbyterian Review is a quarterly news magazine concerning the Life and Witness of the Church in 2 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Mizoram and other related matters, published by the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod. Editor : Rev. Dr. Vanlalnghaka Ralte PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Members of the Editorial Board: Ms. P.C. Laltlani Rev. K.Lallawmzuala Rev. Lalthangpuia Fanai Manager : Rev. Rosiamliana Tochhawng Postal Address of the Editor: Aizawl Theological College Post Bo x N
. 1   Aizawl -  7  0 0 1 M IZ O RAM I N  I A. Ph. ( 0 3  7 ) 2 3  1 1 2  Fa x ( 0 3  7 ) 2 3  1   3 E-mail:atheol @ sancharnet.in Subscription Rates Annual Per Copy - Rs. Rs. . . 50 00 VOl. XVI Oct - Dec., 2008 No. 52 Co nte n ts 1 . Presbyterian Review News - Rev. K.Lallawmzuala & Mrs. P. C. Laltlani Page 1 2 . Principal's College Day Report 2007 - 2008 on the ATC Day 6 3 . Aizawl Theological College Day 2008 Report - Rev. Dr. R.Chhuanliana 18 4 . God's Gift to the People of Mizoram: Mizoram People Forum - Dr. Lalbiakmawia Ngente 22 1 5 00 To Subscribe please contact The Manage r Pre sb y  e rian Revi e w Aizawl Theological College Post Bo x - 1   Aizawl -  7  0 0 1 M IZ O RAM I N  I A. Printed at S nod Press Mizoram ndia. 5. WCC: A Historical Overview - Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha 29 6 . Merits and Demerits of being a member of WCC - Rev. K.Lungmuana 39 7 . Report of the Twelfth Biennial Conference of PWF 2008 - Ms. Lalrindiki Ralte and Ms. Lalthansangi Fanai 46 8 . 85th Meeting of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod - Rev. Lalthangpuia Fanai 51 9 . Advertisement (United Theological College, Bangalore) 5 6 e views epressed in this magazine do not necessarily represent the official position of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church; each contributor is solely responsible for the views epressed in his her article. T OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 3 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW NEWS - P.C. Laltlani & Rev. K. Lallawmzuala PRESBYTERY MEETINGS Pr esb yter y Meetings of Mizoram Presbyterian Church were held during 9th -12th October, 2008 in various places. There are 36 Presbyteries under Mizo Synod out of which four are outside Mizoram, viz. Barak, Meitei, Cachar Tlangram and Tripura Pr esbyt er ies. Synod Officer s pa r ticipat ed in differ ent Presbyteries. Aizawl Theological College students were divided into groups to attend the different Presbyteries’ Meeting and each group were expected to give report when they come back. In the Pr esbyter ies all Pastorates gave reports on Friday evening service. Thursday was spent for Nomination Committee, Finance Committee and Sub- Pastoral Committee meeting. Church Elder newly elected examination was conducted and applicant for Pro. Pastor interview was also conducted for recommend to Synod, if there is any. Friday and Saturday was spent for business season. There was Holy Communion service in the Sunday afternoon service and Presbytery Moderator Valedictory Sermon on sunday evening worship service PWF BIENNIAL CONFERENCE, 2008 Presbyterian Church of India, Presbyterian Women Fellowship 12th Biennial Conference was held at Electric Veng Church, Aizawl during 24th-26th October, 2008. 292 delegates from the units of Mizo Synod, KJP Mihngi Synod, KJP Sepngi Synod, CHT Synod, Ri Bhoi Synod, Manipur Synod, Zou Synod and Biateram attended the conference. Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha, Sr. Executive secretary, Mizoram Synod gave welcome address on 12 th Friday evening service and Rev. Lalr amliana Pachuau, Admi nistrative secretary i/c PWF said the address of conference. The theme of the conference was Renewal in the Holy Spirit . Mrs. V. Vanlalruati (Lecturer SCERT) was the speaker and she preached three times; Saturday evening, Sunday morning and noon worship service. Bible study on ‘Parousia and Women’s Liber a ti o n’ b a s ed on 1 T hes salonians 4:13-5:11 was led by OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 4 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Miss Lalrindiki Ralte (Lecturer, ATC) on Saturday morning from 7:30-8:30 a.m. There was Holy Communion Service on Sunday morning from 7:30-8:30 a.m. celeb r at ed b y R ev. Dr. H . Vanlalauva, Moderator, Mizoram S ynod. R ev E . F. Lyngdoh, Moderator, General Assembly, PCI delivered sermon on Sunday evening worship service. The PWF Confer ence r esolved to celebrate Silver Jubilee during the 13th Biennial Conference 2010 to be held at Mawkhar Presbyterian Church, Shillong Office Bearers 2006-2008 Chair person : Mrs. L. Muani Darnei Vice Chairperson : Mrs. Deem Melody Secretary : Mrs. Rachelbon Myrboh Asst. Secretary : Mrs. K. Laltluangi Treasurer : Mrs. G. Dkhar 2008-2010 Chair person : Mrs. C. Nunsangi, (Manipur Synod) Vice Chairperson : Mrs. Melti Meris Lyngdoh, KJP Synod Sepngi Secretary : Mrs. K.Lalliantluangi, Mizoram Synod Asst. Secretary : Mrs. Zomalsawm, CHT Synod Treasurer : Mrs. G. Dkhar There are 17 Standing Committee members and 8 Nomination Committee members. MISSION CONSULTATION The Synod Mission Board organised consultation on mission during october 30&31 at Zarkawt Presbyterian Church for 24 Presbyteries under Mizo Synod. 450 Church representatives attended the consultation. The selected themes “To conform and make progress the ministry we are doing now,” “The responsibility of church members in the ministry of Mission field” and “The system of firm church planing” were delivered by Rev. Vanlalbela, Secretary Synod Mission Board; Rev. Zosangliana Colney Executive Secretary i/c Mission and Rev. K. Lalhmingliana, Lecturer, ATC. The Mission Board had conducted this kind of consultation at Lunglei, Mamit and Champhai successfully. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW THE SUCCESS OF MPF MINISTRY The Mizoram People’s Forum (MPF) having an aim to establish peaceful political elections which will be held on 19th November, 2008. It had also wanted to abolish corrupt political malpractice. Seminar was organised several times in different parts of Mizoram. The campaigners had visited churches to make known to people the aim of MPF for political election. Local Forum was formed in the local churches before the day of election. As a result Mizoram Legislative Assembly Election was completed under the peaceful circumstance. The people including candidates obeyed the request of MPF and the political party even dare not to make feast as usually done in the previous election, to win people in their side. Political leaders and candidates thank to MPF as candidates did not spent money unlike the previous election. PRESBYTERIAN HOSPITAL AND JVM FREE CLINIC Presbyterian Hospital, Durtlang and 40 Jewish Voice Ministries (JVM) International jointly organized free clinic at Zarkawt Presbyterian Church Hall during 27th-31th October, 2008; 6,650 patients had chance to consult 5 doctor freely. Jewish Voice Ministries had donated 50,000 dollars for the famine of Mizoram in the month of August, 2008 and they had went with Mizoram Synod Social Front members to distribute rice to the rural areas. TRINITY MUSIC EXAM At the initiative of the Mizoram Synod Music Committee, the Trinity Music, London conducted Theory of Music written Exam on November 1, 2008 at Pi Zaii Hall, Synod Office; 36 candidates mentioned below wrote the exam: 1. Synod Music School 23 2. Mystique School of Music 1 3. Crescendo School of Music 9 4. Allegro School of Music 2 5. Sonata Music School 1 Exam papers had been sent to Trinity College, London. There was a plan to conduct the said exam every year in the month of November. ELECTION COMMUNIQUES Mizoram Kohhran Hruaitute Committee (MKHC), (Mizoram Church Leaders Committee) issued communiques for the Mizoram Legislative Assembly election 2008. The churh leaders requested political parties to obey the guidelines in the selection of OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 6 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW candidates, method of campaign and elected persons. In order to have good leaders for country, all parties shoud be very careful in selecting candidates. WORLD SUNDAY SCHOOL DAY As usual practice World Sunday School Day was observed on 2 nd November, 2008. Adult Sunday School studied ‘The importance and development of Sunday School and C.H. Spurgeon written by Upa R. Lalmalsawma and Rev. K. Lalrongheta, The History of Crusade and Ira D. Sa nkey wr it t en by R ev. D r. Vanlalnghaka Ralte and Upa Dr. P.C. Biaksiama was studied by the department of Children. ATC DAY CELEBRATON The 43rd Aizawl Theological College Day celebration was held on 21st (Friday) November, 2008. The celebration began with Professorial Lecture by the Principal on the topic, “Climate Change and the Church’s Responsibility”. The College Day speaker, Dr. Gabriele Dietrich spoke on the theme “ North Eastern States Facing World Economic Crisis: we are challenged to Rise, Be Salt & Leaven”. CHURCH WOMEN DAY The 12th Mizoram Presbyterian Women Fellowship Day was observed on 27th November, 2008. The Women’s Day have been observed since 1997 Central Committee used to make topic to be studied in the previous year but this year the local churches had freedom to mak programme as they like. Some of the women fellowships invited ex-missionary to share his/her experience of missionary work. THE MIZORAM PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ANNUAL SYNOD MEETING The 85th Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod Annual Conference was held at Ramhlun North Church during 9th -14th December, 2008. 1703 delegates from Mizo Synod and Fraternal participated. The first day of the meeting was nomination committee and the rest of the days except Sunday were spent for business session. The first night of the conference was welcome meeting; the other night were public worship services. Rev. R.C. Zokhuma preached on Wednesday, Rev. Lianhmingthanga Sailo on Thursday, Rev. Dr. Vanlalchhuanawma on Saturday. Friday evening sermon time was given to KJP OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Synod Mihngi delegate. On Sunday morning Synod Moderator confirmed 20 Pro. Pastors and ordained 19 for Pastors. Noon service was Holy communion and the night service was moderator valedictory sermon. Synod Officers Moderator : Rev. H. Lalchhanhima Secretaries : Upa C. Lalmuankima (Sr.) Rev. C. Lal\anliana (Jr.) Finance Officers: Rev. Dr. R. Lalbiakmawia, Rev. C. Rosiama Statistician : Upa Dr. L.N. Tluanga 7 Sr. Executive Secretary : Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha Executive Secretary: Rev. Zosangliana Colney Rev. Dr. R. Lalbiakmawia ATC POT-LUCK DINNER As usual practice Aizawl Theological College Campus Community had pot-luck dinner on 19th December, 2008(Friday). As the students had Christmas holidays the campus community take responsibility of cleaning and decorating the campus. After dinner the community members spent time singing and dancing around the camp fire in front of hostel common dinning hall. They sang Christmas songs till late night. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 8 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Principal’s Report (2007-2008) on the ATC Day - Rev. Prof. Roger Gaikwad Principal, ATC Welcome Reverend Chairman, Honourable Chief Guest, Members of the Board, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, On behalf of the entire community of Aizawl Theological College, I extend to each and every one of you a very warm welcome. Our College Day celebration becomes significant because of your inspiring presence and encouraging participation. As responsible members of the church and society you play a very important role in the theological education programme of Aizawl Theological College. A special word Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad gives Theology and Women’s Studof welcome to the Principal’s report ies. Dr. Gabriele Ga br iele has been active Dietrich, our in the Women’s Honourable Movement and Chief Guest and movements of College Day the unorganized Speaker. Havsector in India ing studied Thesince the late ology, Sociology seventies. She is of Religion, and History of Religion, and taking ac- presently one of the National Contive part in the students’ movement veners of the National Alliance of of the sixties (all in Europe), she People’s Movements led by Medha came over to undertake research Patkar. As a Professor, Researcher, work in South India in 1972. In 1975 Writer and Social Activist, Dr. after a brief stint in Berlin, she be- Gabriele presents a good example came a faculty member of of commitment to ministry, of giving Tamilnadu Theological Seminary in practical expression to the gospel of Madurai where she eventually built Jesus Christ. We are indeed priviup the Department of Social Analy- leged to have her as our College Day sis and also introduced Feminist Speaker. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Deserving notable mention is our Moderator as well. Rev. Dr. H. Vanlalauva has guided Aizawl Theological College with distinction during the past nine years. The Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod deemed it fit that he should be called upon to give leadership to the church as the Moderator and so it is only in January 2008 that he left the college. However his imprints can be seen in every aspect of the life of the college. Much of what I am going to present about the college in my report is due to his able leadership and dedicated commitment. We have been blessed to continue to have him with us during 2008 as the Chairman of the Synod Theological Education Board. Report In your booklet you will find a report about the college in Mizo for the period November 2007 to October 2008. This is the official report, which will be published in the 2008 Synod Bu. I will however deliver a different version of the report in English. It is an adaptation of the Report presented in the 2008 publication of the Annual Magazine of the ATC Students Body 9 Tradition and Change: Aizawl Theological College in Transition During November 22-24, 2007 Aizawl Theological College celebrated its centenary. Having sprouted as a small Bible School in 1907 it has blossomed into a post-graduate Theological Institution by 2007. The theme of the centenary celebration of the college as well as of last year’s annual magazine of the students was “Honouring the Past, Envisioning the Future.” Very much in line with this thought is the theme of this year’s students’ annual magazine: “Tradition and Change.” In writing this report, I would like to assert that Aizawl Theological College is itself engaged in a spiritual journey carrying with it the legacy of the past while at the same time appropriating new insights on the way and growing (thereby undergoing change), seeking to articulate itself more meaningfully in the present context. Our Cherished Traditions In terms of its Faith, the college holds on to its Presbyterian foundations as expressed in the Ten Articles of Faith of the Presbyterian Church of India. These affirmations OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 10 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW of faith draw their inspiration from The Apostles Creed, the Nicene Creed, the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Confession of Faith of the Presbyterian Church of Wales. The College is also run along Presbyterian administrative lines. It is governed by the Theological Education Board appointed by the Mizoram Presbyterian Synod. During the period under review, the Board met 9 times. Among its Ex-Officio Members are: Rev. Dr. H. Vanlalauva (Synod Moderator & Chairman of the Board), Upa C. Lalmuankima, (Synod Secretary), Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha (Senior Executive Secretary i/c Theological Education), Rev. Prof. Vanlalchhuanawma (Vice Principal), Rev. Dr. C. Lalhlira (Registrar) and myself as the Principal. In addition to the ex-officio members, the following have been nominated by the Synod to serve on the Board for the period 20072009: Rev. C. Vanlalhruaia, Rev. Thangdela, Rev. Lianhmingthanga, Upa C.L. Dawngliana, Upa K. Lalthanzama, Upa Prof. Lianzela, Upa Lallianzela, Upa Dr. Vanlalzara, Upa R. Zatlaia, Upa Prof. C. Lalkima and Upa A.S. Thanga. In keeping with its Presbyterian heritage, the College continues to run the Calvin Study Centre, thereby providing an important theological under-girding for its students and the church and society at large. The Centre has 897 books, 19 journals, and 51 cassettes. Preparations are on to organize an Annual Seminar. So also the college has been asked to host a special consultation of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of India next year in commemoration of the 500th Birth Anniversary of John Calvin. The theme of the Consultation would be “Rediscovering the Legacy of John Calvin: A Contextual Reading”. Indeed we are concerned about the relevance of our cherished traditions! The official English magazine of the Synod, Presbyterian Review, is also published by the college. 400 copies of the same are being distributed. The Archives in the college library maintain quite a good record of the history and publications of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod, its presbyteries, pastorates and local churches. The total number of books in the archives are: English-4425 and Mizo-7956. There are also Microfilms, Audio Visual Cassettes, Audio Cassettes, Slide Films and other materials in the OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW archives. The Museum and Art Gallery also reminds us of our Presbyterian roots. Very precious souvenirs of our missionaries, pastors, church workers and programmes of the church are housed therein. The Faculty of the college, most of whom are ordained Presbyterian ministers, continue to provide their services in various programmes and committees of the Church at different levels: local, pastorate, presbytery, synod, and general assembly. They also play an important role in various programmes of the government, university, NGOs and the society at large. The following are our faculty members: Old Testament: Rev. Lalfakzuala (Assistant Professor) Rev. K. Lallàwmzuala Lecturer (awaiting Ph.D. Result) Rev. B. Lalnunzira Lecturer (Deputed to Bishop’s College for 2 yrs) New Testament: Rev. Dr. Vànlalnghâka Râlte Associate Professor & Head of Department (Book Service Manager; Editor - Presbyterian Review) Rev. Dr. R. Chhuanliana Associate Professor (Hostel Warden) 11 Rev. L. H. Rawsea Lecturer (Dean, Practical Work; Manager-Didakhe) Rev. Lalthangpuia Fanai Lecturer (on deputation to UBS till May, 2008) Rev. P. R. Hmuaka Lecturer (On Doctoral Study Leave) Christian Theology & Ethics: Dr. Lalnghâk\huami Lecturer & Head of Department (Manager-M.T.J.) Rev. Rosiamliana Tochhawng Lecturer (SCM Adviser, Chaplain, Manager-Presbyterian Review) Rev. Tlânghmingthanga Lecturer (on deputation to Serampore College till May, 2008) Rev. Dr. H. Vànlalauva Visiting Professor History of Christianity & Missiology: Rev. Dr. Vànlalchhuanawma Professor & Head of Department (Director-C.S.C.) Rev. K. Lalhmingliana Lecturer (i/c Maintenance) Rev. Lalrinawma Lecturer (on Contract) Rev. H. Lalrinthanga Lecturer (On Doctoral Study leave) Rev. Lawmsanga Lecturer (joined the college in November 2008; Awaiting Ph.D. Result) OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 12 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Religions & Social Analysis: Rev. Dr. Roger Gaikwad Professor (Editor-M.T.J.) Dr. T. Vànlaltlani Associate Professor & Head of Department (Director-LTE) Rev. V. S. Lalrinawma Assistant Professor (Pursuing Ph.D. Studies externally) Ms. Lalrindiki Ralte Lecturer (D.Th. Candidate) Christian Ministry & Communication: Rev. Dr. C. Lalhlira Associate Professor & Head of Department (SB Adviser; Editor-Didakhe) Rev. Lalchungnunga Lecturer (i/c Homiletics; Construction Work Supervisor) Rev. H. Vànlalruata Assistant Professor (On Doctoral Study leave) Rev. R. Vanlaltluanga Lecturer (joined from May 2008 on successfully completing M.Th.) Among our Administrative, Library and Service Staff (the list of their names is appended on the cover of the booklet), one is an ordained minister, a few are ordained church elders, and some others are active in various activities in their respective local churches and pastorates. Our Ecumenical Openness to Growth and Relevant Ministry The College has over the years strengthened its ecumenical outlook. Being affiliated to the Senate of Serampore College, which in itself is an ecumenical body, the college has been pursuing an ecumenical and contextually related curriculum. The study of subjects (Old Testament, New Testament, Theology and Ethics, History of Christianity, Missiology, Religions, Social Analysis, Ministry, Communication) exposes the students to different streams of scholarly contributions, church traditions, gender perspectives, theological stances and schools of thought, socio-economic and cultural backgrounds, etc. In addition to the regular B.D. and M.Th. in Christian Theology programmes, from June 2007 the college has introduced the M.Th. programme in two more disciplines, namely, New Testament and Missiology. This has made our academic programme more broadbased, our library more developed, and our student body and visiting professors more ecumenical (in the person of Rev. Dr. Lalsangkima Pachuau and Rev. Dr. David Scott from USA). This situation will be further enhanced as the college is planning to introduce the M.Th pro- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW gramme in the discipline of History of Christianity from June 2009. The faculty in all their varied engagements in the church and society have been addressing issues of Biblical hermeneutics, tribal identity and culture, globalization, HIV/AIDS, ecology, women’s concerns, leadership training, Christian education, urban development, church and state, revival and spirituality, peace, ecumenism, etc. Our Students also enhance ecumenical openness and commitment to contemporary concerns. They belong to different church traditions: Mizoram Synod, KJP Synod, CHT Synod, Manipur Synod, Biateram Synod, Baptist, Evangelical Church of Maraland, Lairam Isua Krista Baptist Kohhran, UPC NEI, Salvation Army, Independent Church of India (ICI) leh IKK Bualpui NG, Presbyterian Church of Myanmar, Methodist Church of Myanmar. They also hail from different parts of Mizoram and the North East region. We have even one from South India. The students come from urban and rural contexts thereby emphasizing the need of both the dimensions in theological education and ministry. The Practical Work programme 13 of the college (Sunday church services, winter and summer field assignments, rural exposure, mission exposure, etc.) seeks to address this need. Presently we have only 11 women students out of a total of 134. Their presence along with that of the women faculty and staff asserts the important message of gender ecumenism and partnership in ministry. Furthermore the College unit of the Student Christian Movement of India has been promoting the cause of ecumenism and contextually relevant faith and action in and around the campus. (Last summer the college hosted the National SCM Biennial Conference during May 21-24, 2008) The College Library is one of the important centres of our ecumenical and contextual theological endeavour. We have 30,742 English and 6,370 Mizo books, subscriptions to 35 Mizo and 202 English (113 Indian & 89 foreign) journals. We are also beginning to store material in CDs and DVDs. (It may also be mentioned here that our Assistant Librarian, Mr. Thankima completed his Masters in Library and Information Science from Mizoram University having secured First Class First position). At the same time our bimonthly Mizo theological journal, OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 14 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Didakhe (4700 copies), and our biannual English offering, The Mizoram Theological Journal (300 copies), along with the publications of the Mizo Theological Literature Committee (whose office is based in Aizawl Theological College), and the sale of theological literature through our Book Service have been continuing to contribute to theological learning and articulation, and to strengthening ecumenical relationships. Even our Lay Theological Education Programme has been establishing the registered students in the traditional sources of Christian faith and practice as well as opening up newer horizons of Christian concern and commitment through the Bible Correspondence Course and the Mobile Theological School. Recently we have launched a second series in the Bible Correspondence Course. During the period under review 354 persons registered for the first level Bible Correspondence course, of whom 150 have already completed the same. 97 candidates have registered for the second level course, of whom 23 have completed the same. 374 persons have registered for the Mobile Theological School programme. We have also been encouraging people to register for the Bachelor of Christian Studies (BCS) and Diploma in Christian Studies (Dip. C.S.) external study programmes of the Senate of Serampore College. The college has also been facilitating continuing theological education for pastors through the Doctor of Ministry programme of the Senate of Serampore College. Six of our church pastors are presently going through the course. Students’Spouses and Children constitute important segments of our ecumenical community life and theological inclusiveness. The college has revived the Certificate in Christian Studies programme for students’ spouses encouraging and equipping them thereby in their lives and ministry. We also have revived the Crèche programme for tiny tots in the college and Rescue Home. Since our campus is located at quite a distance from good schools, the Crèche is a necessity, even though the number of children is small. Mrs. Lalthanpuii (w/ o Rev. K. Lalhmingliana) and Mrs. Lalrampari (w/o Rev. Rosiamliana Tochhawng) have been serving as Volunteer teachers. Along with them, we are grateful to ICDS and the Sports and Youth Services Directorate for providing us initial help in this venture. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW The college has also opened a General Store to make provisions available to the members of the community and to nearby neighbours. Since the college is located on a mountain-top and is isolated from the main town, such a provision store is a necessity. The college has also been blessed with the completion of the first phase of the Viewing Gallery in the south-western section of our campus thanks to the gracious investment of the Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Department of the Government. Our college attracts visitors from within and outside Mizoram. Indeed it is an ecumenical bonding centre of sightseers, church people, government workers, State and Church Guests, etc. Special mention may be made of the following visitors: 1. Dr. K. Rajaratnam, Master, Senate of Serampore College 2. Dr. Ravi Tiwari, Registrar, Senate of Serampore College 3. Rev. Ms. Angahart Roberts (Pi Zopari), Wales, UK 4. Mr. Zoliana and Family, Wales, UK 5. Rev. Dr. Garry J. Bekker, Christian Reformed Church, USA 6. Dr. Sadhananda, President, Senate of Serampore College 15 7. Dr. Donald Chapman, Mission India, Grand Rapids, USA 8. Rev. Dr. Kamala Chiraniyeevi, Seva Bharat, Hyderabad 9. Rev. Cheryl Schang, and Steela Tinnicello, Jewish Voice Ministries International 10. Brig. K.P. Singh, HQ, DGBR (Border Road Organisation), New Delhi 11. Rabbi Jonathan Bernes and his team, Jewish Voice Ministries International 12. Dr. David C. Scott and Corrinne Scott, USA 13. Ms. Lalbiakhlui Rokhum, Micah Challenge India 14. Mr. Kennedy Danabalan, EFFICOR, India 15. Mr. Sandeep Chowdhry, ISPCK, Delhi Not only human beings and their concerns, but also Nature constitutes an important component of our ecumenical openness. The Biblical Garden and the on-going greening programme of the campus attract birds, provide a clean atmosphere, beautify the campus, inspire prayerful devotion, and cultivate integrity with nature. Sustaining our ecumenical national and international integration, regular annual events have also taken place in the college during No- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 16 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW vember 2007 to October 2008. It started with the 42nd College Day celebration. Since it was our centenary celebration it was spread over three days, November 22-24, 2007. Officers of the Senate of Serampore College, one of our former Welsh Missionaries, and several dignitaries from the church and society graced our celebrations. Mr. B. Darkhuma, Director, Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation led us in our Republic Day celebration. Our Moderator, Rev. Dr. H. Vanlalauva was the Chief Guest at the Dedication-cum-Farewell Service on April 11, 2008 during which we bid farewell to 38 M.Th and B.D. students. On May 26, 2008 Upa Lalthlengliana, our former faculty member, led the staff in their annual retreat. The retreat for the students and faculty followed on July 17-18, 2008; Upa Prof. Lalnunthara from Shillong was our Retreat Speaker. For our Independence Day celebration, we were privileged to have Mr. Samuel Rosanglura, Director, Horticulture Department. Besides these, we had three special ecumenical programmes: the ISET-ECC-CWMPCI Seminar on “Re-Thinking Tribal Heritage: A Critical Re-Look” during January 15-19, 2008; the NEICC Consultation on Re-Thinking Mis- sion Strategies on January 18, 2008; and, the Biennial Conference of the SCMI during May 21-24, 2008. Administration and Academic Progress: Tradition and Change ATC has experienced a change in some of its administrative leadership and faculty. Since the Principal, Rev. Dr. H. Vanlalauva was called to take up the important office of Moderator, the Synod authorities entrusted me the responsibility of Principalship from January 2008. Rev. Chuau\huama, the college Registrar, one of our distinguished teachers, also bid farewell to the college on retirement. In his place Rev. Dr. C. Lalhlira, a senior teacher was appointed as Registrar from January 2008. Rev. Dr. Vanlalchhuanawma, who was serving as Vice-Principal with the previous Principal and Registrar, continues to assist the new administrative heads as Vice-Principal. What a good instance of tradition and change! Furthermore, Rev. K. Lalrinmawia, who had been serving the college as teacher in the field of History of Christianity, was assigned by the Church to take up a new assignment as Mission Field OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Secretary in Assam. While his place was not filled, the Church authorities did appoint Rev. Tlanghmingthanga (Theology), Rev. R. Vanlaltluanga (Counselling) and Rev. Lalthangpuia (New Testament) on the faculty of ATC [Rev. Lawmsanga has arrived from Birmingham and joined the faculty from November 2008]. Thus on our faculty we now have 7 doctoral degree holders, 8 at different stages of doctoral studies, and 8 M.Th. degree holders of whom 4 are exploring possibilities of Chaltlang Pastorate Church Women Leitan S. Presbyterian Church Govt. Capital Complex Kohhran Ramhlun South Church Women 17 registering for doctoral studies. We also have a senior minister (Rev. Lalrinawma) helping the faculty on a contract basis and a parttime Music Instructor (Upa Zothanmawia). Our financial resources also have an ecumenical character. The amounts budgeted Rs. 2,39,93,000/(2007-2008) and Rs. 2,49,83,000/(2008-2009) are almost entirely taken care of by our Synod. During the period under consideration, we are grateful to the following for their gifts and donations: Rs. 44,700 Rs. 29,000 Rs. 29,100 Rs. 8,000 Bawngkawn Pastorate Church Women Rs. 8,000 Khatla KTP Branch Rs. 7,500 Electric Pastorate Church Women Rs. 6,000 Zarkawt KTP Branch Rs. 3000 Ramhlun North KTP Branch Rs. 3000 Mission Veng KTP Branch Rs. 4000 Bawngkawn Pastorate Church Women Rs. 8,000 Electric Veng Pastorate Church Women Rs. 6,000 Chanmari Pastorate Church Women Rs. 7,000 Khatla Branch K.T.P. Rs. 2,500 Pi Neihthangi & Pu Thangsailova Rs. 10,500 Upa Ngurchhawnthanga fate Rs. 30,000 Pastor Chhuahkhama & Family Rs. 10,000 Biate Pastorate Church Women Rs. 3,000 Rev. Dr. Y. Moses Rs. 2,400 Mrs. Judy Walters Rs. 500 (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (Stipend for student) (For students’ prizes) (Donation) (Donation) (Donation) (Donation) OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 18 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Women from several churches outside Aizawl have on occasion graciously donated brooms for the college and vegetables for the students’ mess. The Challenges of Change Ahead Keeping up with the times, Aizawl Theological College is trying to expand literature resources. There are almost 50,000 volumes as a whole in the library, archives and Calvin Study Centre. However, much more literature needs to be acquired. At the same time efforts are being made to make more computers available to the students, faculty and staff in the college. Once broadband Internet connection is made available, the entire college community would be benefited in keeping itself abreast of the times and in having access to valuable information and resources for research purposes. While the Church is time and again faced with the issue of women’s partnership in ministry, the college has been keeping its doors open for women to undertake theological studies. We are grateful to the Presbyterian Church of U.S.A. for the scholarships provided for women students in our college. However the challenge of developing just and fulfilling women’s ministries in the contemporary context still remains. As the members of the community keep on increasing (we presently have accommodation for 14 faculty members and their families, 8 for non-teaching staff and their families, 10 for married students with families, and a Men’s and a Women’s Hostels for 124 students living singly) the college is engaged in the endeavour of increasing accommodation facilities. An 8-flat block for faculty is fast nearing completion. On a priority basis, we need to plan and acquire resources for constructing family accommodation for married students. At the same time the college needs to set up a Programme Centre which could provide resources and short term accommodation for visitors and for candidates, particularly laity engaged in external formal studies such as Diploma in Christian Studies, Degree of Bachelor of Christian Studies, Degree of Doctor of Ministry as well as nonformal studies such as study of tribal religion, culture and theology, social analysis, mission engagement, traditional and church music, etc. The Museum and Art Gallery also requires a larger space. The crèche facility also needs to be developed so that pre-school facilities of nursery and kindergarten could be made available to the children in the campus. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 19 Thanks! General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of India, the Senate of We are grateful to God, whom Serampore College, and friends and we have known in Jesus Christ, for well-wishers in India and abroad all the wondrous ways in which the college continues to grow. Our have been encouraging and upholdthanks also go the Mizoram Pres- ing us in the cause of theological byterian Church Synod and its Theo- education. On a personal note, I am logical Education Board for the grateful to the Vice Principal and the guidance and support provided dur- Registrar, all my colleagues in the ing the past year. We duly appreci- faculty, the administrative, library ate the different ways in which the and service staff and the students presbyteries, pastorates and local for the way they have rallied around churches of the Mizoram Synod, me in ensuring that our college runs committees and programmes of the smoothly. Thus grounded in tradition, Aizawl Theological College continues to be engaged in contextual relevance and holistic change in the present, and contributing to a better future for all God’s creation. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 20 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW AIZAWL THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE DAY 2008 REPORT - Rev. Dr. R.Chhuanliana Preface: As our common activial practice, Aizawl Theological College has celebrated the College Day for the Academic year 2008-09 on 21st November, 2008, Friday. The college extended invitations to all local churches of Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod in Aizawl city, ministers and pastors, various government departments, Synod officials and several prominent citizens. All the invitees and the college community enjoyed the various functions of the day, a brief report of which runs as follows. Part One: Professorial Lecture in the person of Ms Zomuani. Then Like last year celebration, it is he run after her even upto this hilly our privilege this year to have Pro- region called Mizoram. The couple fessorial was blessed l ec t u r e. with two preThis leccious sons ture is Amos and presented Abel. He latter by the got M.Th. First Rev Prof Class in ReliRoger gion under Gaikwad, Senate of Principal S er a mpor e f from of Aizawl College Dr Gabriele Dietrich delivers TheologiNIIP GTS, the College Day’s Address cal ColKolkata, and lege. Rev Dr Roger Gaikwad hails D.Th. in Religion from SATHRI, from a committed Christian family Bangalore under the able superviin Mumbai, Maharashtra state of In- sion of the world-known Dr Stanley dia. After getting B.A. (Special hon- Joshua Samartha in 1996. The title our) degree, he graduated in Theol- of his Doctoral Dissertation was ogy (B.D. degree) in Leonard Theo- “Major Issues in a Dialogical-Plulogical College, Jabalpur with a fly- ralistic Paradigm for Inter-Religious ing colour in 1978. It was here that Relationships.” He served here in he first met his Eve or life-partner ATC since 1978, and became Reg- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW istrar and Vice Principal before he held the post of Principal from January 2008. He was also deputed to the Senate of Serampore College as the Director of SCEPTRE during 2002-07. Acknowledging his valuable service to the college as well as his academic writings and performance, the Synod Theological Education Board was pleased to promote him to Professorship from January 2008. 21 the said problem. A lively discussion followed it, which showed that the subject is very relevant and important today all over the world. Part Two: Snacks and Refreshment From 12:30-1.00 p.m. there wa s a p ublic r eception with snacks and refreshments. The well-dressed students received all the gathered invitees with a smiling face, which is highly appreciThe lecture programme was ated. The preparation of the submoderated by Rev Lalhmangaiha, committee is commended with Senior Exgreat apecutive Secplaud, retary of and t he Mizoram recurring Synod, i/c comment Theological I ha ve E du ca t ion hear d is Board. The that t he Lecture tor ef r es hday was enment totitled, “Clida y is The College Day main function mate Change hea lt h y, and the t a s t y, Church’s Responsibility.” Although economical yet su per bly a r the lecture has no relevance to the ranged. Professor’s area of specialization or Part Three: Main function with the dignified status awarded to The main programme started him, it nevertheless conscientize the exactly at 1:00 p.m. with an able conaudience about the ecological challenges that confront us and it also ducting by the Rev Dr H.Vanlalauva, stirs us to respond constructively to Moderator of Mizoram Synod. Ac- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 22 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW tually Rev Dr Auva gave report of the college for the past nine years as the Principal, he led the progr amme meaningfully, which shows the able-leadership given to him by the almighty God. The new Principal, Rev Dr Roger Gaikwad gave a detailed report of the college for the past year. He did a good job. We have choirs from Synod Choir, ATC choir and ATC Male voice. Prizes were distributed by Rev Dr. Lalhmangaiha, Senior Executive Secretary with the assistance of Rev Dr C. Lalhlira, Registrar of ATC. Certificates were also presented to recent BCS gr aduates by Upa C. Lalmuankima, Secretary of Mizoram Synod. The function is closed with an inspiring vote of thanks pr onounced by Pr of T. Vanlaltlani, followed by a singing of “Aw Lalpa, Chungnung ber, kan fak hle a che,” and a benediction pr onounced by Rev H. Lalchhanhima, Synod Moderatorelect. This year our Chief Guest was Dr Gabriele Dietrich, Professor of Social Analysis in Tamil Nadu Theological Seminary, Madurai. She delivered the College Day Message on the theme, “North Eastern States Facing the World Economic Crisis: We are challenged to Rise and be Salt and Leaven”. Her speech was very relevant in the context of Mizoram facing election and economic crisis as the outcome of global economy. It would be good if Mizos realized their call and commitment to become salt and leaven in such a situation. General Comments: First of all, the Chairman (Synod Moderator) and the Principal happened once to work together as Principal and Vice-Principal; it is a good coincidence this time; Secondly, this year’s College Day is unique in the sense that it is the first time that we have Woman as the Chief Guest, and also that it is the first time (at least for several recent past years) that the speaker comes without a written manuscript of her speech. Usually we used to have the paper in hand with a Mizo version of it. Thirdly, almost all the new BD graduates could not come to receive their prizes, as they worked in different far-away places. Among the BCS graduates, only one could come to attend our programme. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Fourthly, the preparation of Synod Choir, College Choir, and AT C M a le Voi ce ma kes t he f unct ion per f ect , we ar e all grateful to all of them. Finally, the College administr a tion exp r ess ed its s incer e 23 gratitude to all the local churches, Synod authorities and other invitees who graced this function with their presence; a special gratitud goes to Synod Theological Education Board and God Almighty for making this programme a success. (Rev. Dr. R. Chhuanliana is an Associate Professor in the Department of New Testament at the Aizawl Theological College) OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 24 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW MIZORAM PEOPLE FORUM God’s gift to the people of Mizoram - Lalbiakmawia Ngente Secretary, MPF Hqrs. INTRODUCTION Mizoram People Forum, or simply MPF, is an organization constituted by a conglomerate of churches and major NGOs to reform politics and elections in the state in order to have transparent, accountable and reliable government and establish good governance in the state of Mizoram. The turn of events and many incidents reported during the election to the 5th Mizoram Legislative Assembly in 2003 shocked the leaders of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod and pulled them out of their comfort zone and prompted them to swing into action and look for remedies to these ailments. As a result, the 2004 Mizoram Synod resolved to ‘take necessary actions to reform politics of the state’, vide Synod Gen. 2004:11. After a series of consultation and negotiation, all the major churches and prominent NGOs of the state, on 21st June 2006, formed a common platform to reform politics and elections in the state and named the christened the new platform – the Mizoram People Forum. However, due to certain restrictions and constraints in the constitutions and regulations of the organization, certain church bodies could not fully participate in the later stage in the new forum as a church body. But the members were allowed to freely involve themselves and take active part as individuals. So the final constitution of the MPF, at the time of registration of the organization, is as follows: 1. Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod. 2. Catholic Church of Mizoram 3. Evangelical Church of Maraland 4. Lairam Isua Krista Baptist Kohhran 5. Evangelical Fellowship Church of India 6. 7. Central Young Mizo Association 8. Mizoram Upa Pawl Hqrs. 9. Mizoram Hmeichhe Insuihkhawm Pawl Hqrs. 10. Central Young Lai Association, Lawngtlai 11. MTP Hqrs., Saiha. Wesleyan Methodist Church OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Since its inception, a number of organizations have boarded the wagon and are instrumental in the successful and peaceful conduct of the recently concluded election. They are Mizoram Chakma Students Union, Chakma Youth Association, Mizoram Chakma Mahila Samiti, Mizoram Buddhist Association, MBS and BRK of Chawngte and MCHP of Saiha. MPF is registered under the Societies Registration Act of 2005, and legally, it is a state level NGO with a registration number of MSR-61 of 2007. MPF STRUCTURE & OFFICE BEARERS The structure of MPF is such that power is decentralized upto the local/ grassroot level and each forum have full power under its jurisdiction within the ambit of the broad guidelines framed by the Central Forum. The organization is co-ordinated at the headquarters by the Central Forum. There is a district level body called the MPF District Forum to co-ordinate and network with the various fora of MPF within the district. Then comes the Constituency Forum of MPF, constituted in line with the Assembly constituency, to look after and co-ordinate the activities of the organization within its area. The main force and the backbone of the organization is the MPF Local Forum, set up in each and every village or locality – usually one forum in each village council area. The bulk of the activities and works are taken up by the MPF volunteers at the local 25 level. The Office Bearers at the Central Forum are as follows: i) President : Rev. H. Lalchhanhima, Moderator, Mizoram Synod ii) Sr. Vice President: Rev. Zosangliana Colney, Exe. Secretary, Mizoram Synod iii) Vice Presidents : - Rev. C Beima, Evangelical Church of Maraland - Pu H Raltawna, President, Mizoram Upa Pawl Hqrs. - Pu JH Zoremthanga, President, Central YMA iv) General Secretary: Upa Lalramthanga (PCI) v) Secretary: Dr. Lalbiakmawia Ngente (PCI) vi) Joint Secretaries: - Dr. Robert S Halliday (PCI) - Rev. Dr. Chalhnuna (Wesleyan Methodist) - Pu B. Thangtinliana (Catholic Church) - Rev. H. Manga Khongsai (EFCI) - Rev. FC Beichô (ECM) -vii) Treasurer: Pi Lalbiaknungi (MHIP Hqrs.) -viii)Fin.Secretary: Upa Sainghinga Sailo (MUP Hqrs.) It may be noted that, during the run-up to the election to the 6th Mizoram Legislative Assembly, MPF functioned under the leadership of Rev. Dr. H Vanlalauva, who was the Moderator of Mizoram Synod. However, the presi- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 26 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW dentship of the MPF at the Central Forum is held by the Moderator of the Mizoram Synod and the moderatorship changed hand on the 10th December, 2008 at the Mizoram Synod. So MPF now have a new President, Rev. H. Lalchhanhima, the current Moderator of the Mizoram Synod. VISION & MISSION The vision and mission of the Mizoram People Forum is to establish good governance, peace and harmony, progressive, just and sustainable socioeconomic development and freedom of the people. This is hoped to be achieved by changing the value system and perception of the people and by electoral reforms. And thematic focal areas of the organization are electoral reforms, political education and reforms, good governance, advocacy and awareness. The goals and objectives of the organization are: i) To work towards establishing democratic government through free and fair election. ii) To reform the electoral process and do away with the corrupt and malpractices in the electoral system in the state. iii) To put in place a transparent, accountable and responsible government. iv) To educate the people on the governance issues and to be a responsible citizens. v) To guide and advise the government on developmental issues. vi) To conduct social audits for social reforms. vii) To counter any form of violence, use of arms and terrorism. TASK AT HAND The first and foremost task of the newly constituted executive committee of the MPF was to invite the major stakeholders in the state politics representatives of all the political parties. The first consultation was held on the 25th September, 2006 at Synod Committee Room. An a fourhours long, closed door consultation, leaders of the political parties opened their hearts and poured all their problems and pent-up feelings to the leaders of MPF. Various suggestions and measures to be taken up were put forward. The executive committee of the MPF took up the matter seriously, refined and filtered all the suggestions thrown up and then came out with the ‘election guidelines’, outlining the dos and don’ts to be followed at the time of election. As the Election Day draws near, the second state level consultation was held on the 30th April, 2008, which was attended by representatives of all political parties in the state. This time even the BJP and NCP were represented. The meeting, after making minor modifications and alterations, adopted the ‘election guidelines’ to be followed in the forthcoming Mizoram Legislative Assembly General Election. Minutes of the meeting was circulated to every nook OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW and corner of the state via the MPF network. In addition, the political parties were also instrumental in the wide circulation of the same, through their blocks and units. This was followed by the seminar, consultation and awareness campaigns launched by the MPF all over the state by direct action and through its constituent members. This advocacy and awareness programmes is to prove very useful at the time of election campaigning and electioneering. THE DOs AND DON’Ts The main idea behind formulating the ‘election guidelines’ is to have a free and fair election and to enable the lawabiding citizens to exercise their franchise without fear or favour and to prove that elections in India are not about money and muscle alone. Appeal is made to the political parties to put up upright, honest and reliable candidates and to stick within the election model code of conduct. The lavish feasts, the musical bands, road shows, door-todoor campaigns, separate public rallies, flags and posters war, excessive use of PA Systems, exclusive public meetings organized by the parties, which have candidates renting the air with the oftrepeated slogan ‘vote rawh’ (for) — part of electioneering till the last elections — are prohibited. Distribution of party leaflets, manifesto, candidate’s bio-data and all other literatures are done by the MPF volunteers. For the candidates to reach out 27 to the electorate, the MPF offers a common platform in each locality of a constituency. Each constituency has about six or more localities with a population of 2,000-3,000 each — wherein all the contenders are given “adequate time” to speak about their agenda and defend the charges against them or their party in front of the electorates of the locality. The electorates too are given opportunities to put their queries to their candidates. Even in these meetings, direct personal attack of the candidates, false propaganda, etc. is avoided. To quote the MPF President, Reverend Dr. H Vanlalauva, ‘the objective of the forum is to ensure that the elections did not vitiate the peaceful atmosphere in the state and the polling is free and fair’. There is still a possibility of disturbance from outside the state. So to ensure that armed groups do not interfere in the polling, members of the forum personally met leaders of various militant groups, even from the neighbouring states, asking them to stay away from the elections. On the flip side, most of the fun and enthusiasm that are usually associated with election for the party activists and workers are bound to be missing and all these dos and don’ts can make polls a dull game. Moreover, for many people, the absence of flags and poster war, stoppage of door to door campaign and musical bands etc. cut off the usual financial flow and transaction that usually follow these activities. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 28 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW POLLWITH ADIFFERENCE Conspicuous by their absence were gun-toting security personnel, long queues of voters and the overwhelming presence of the youth brigade of political parties outside the polling booths. The voters exercised their franchise under the watchful eyes of the Mizoram People Forum. The voters across the state cast their votes in a leisurely fashion, on a day devoid of the trappings of the usual Election Day hullabaloo. There was no report of any untoward incident from any part of the state in one of the most peaceful polling in Mizoram’s history. The forum ensured that supporters of political parties did not come near the vicinity of polling stations with party flags, banners or stickers. Even party workers wearing caps bearing party symbols were not allowed to loiter around polling stations. “The MPF members have made our task very easy. They are ensuring that all political parties cooperate for a smooth conduct of poll,” said one polling official. Another significant feature associated with polling in the state was the rows of benches placed outside polling booths for the electorate to sit while waiting for their turn to cast their votes. There was no mad rush either. The voters, mostly women, trickled in, cast their votes without much ado and went back to resume their daily chores. Life did not stop to elect a new government. In Aizawl, most shops remained open and business was as usual. Gov- ernment institutions and offices were, however, closed as it was an official holiday. “In the rest of the country, people have to vote by standing for hours in long queues. I am surprised to find voters sitting on benches and having community discussions while waiting for their turn to vote,” special election observer, Mr Debasish Sen said. Another “unique feature” of the Mizoram poll that drew Sen’s attention was the tea served to each voter by the MPF. REFLECTIONS & VIEWS The Times of India writes: “A day after, Mizoram salutes the ‘real winner’. Parties and people hail Mizoram People Forum, a social group, for ensuring a peaceful election”. “Revising the Mizoram poll results: Mizoram People’s Forum wins with absolute majority”, thundered The Hindustan Times. The Election Commission’s special observer for the Mizoram elections, Debasish Sen, felt other states should try to emulate the Mizoram experience to rid Indian elections of malpractice and wasteful expenditure. “This should be a role model to be emulated in rest of the country,” said Congress leader Ved Prakash who was camping in Mizoram to oversee his party’s poll OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW preparedness. The discipline and the decency in which the “common platforms” are conducted with supporters of different political parties seating side-by side holding the flag of the party of their choice is an “eye-opener” for even a veteran like Ved Prakash. “In past elections, these kind of common platforms were organised in some constituencies. But this time things are much more organised and the ambit is much larger as all the constituencies are covered,” said D.R. Zirliana, a senior journalist and a political observer of the state. Asked to comment on the MPF’s role, victorious Congress leader Lal Thanhawla says, “I think our prayer has been answered by the God in the form of MPF”. The outgoing Chief Minister Zoramthanga too appreciated the role of the forum in reducing the use of money power though he claimed that the gag on campaigning took away some of the constitutional rights of the political parties to reach out to the voters. UNUSUALMODEL Real change in the practice of democracy may come quietly, and quietness was one of the keywords 29 of the assembly elections held under the strict supervision of the Mizoram People Forum. It is perhaps a rare instance of accurate naming, for the MPF seems to have been able to turn ordinary people’s desire for disciplined campaigning and peaceful elections into a reality. MPF worked with firmness and good sense to induce cooperation and compliance, not only from political parties but also from militant groups, so that neither flamboyant shows of money and muscle nor disruptive violence could confuse or hinder the free exercise of the people’s franchise. There can be no doubt that other states in India could look upon the elections in Mizoram this year as a model. More than the effects — quiet, austere campaigns and peace during polling and after — it is perhaps the effort behind the achievement that needs to be studied. A remarkable unity of purpose welded together the church and social organizations; both the purpose as well as the unity mattered. It was quite a task persuading political parties and militant outfits to see the point — to their disadvantage — even if the influence of the church in the region is taken for granted. This was not about religion, neither was it about politics. It was about the rights of the people in a democracy OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 30 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW and the need to give those priority. The growth of pressure groups and watchdog bodies outside of political parties and institutions is a mark of a society’s maturity. It demonstrates the people’s faith that they can participate in governance. And from the blessings that it had received for its all-out effort to have a clean, free and fair election, it can rightly be said that MPF is a gift to Mizoram. A clean election, for example, may not immediately mean a trouble-free government, but the vigilance of a popular watchdog organization may help in bringing about clean governance too. The MPF has opened up possibilities, the rest of India should explore them. The Mizoram Presbyterian Church organised MPF Rally at Vanapa Hall, AizawlThe The Mizoram Presbyterian Mizoram Presbyterian Church Church organised MPF organised MPF RallyRally at Vanapa Hall, Hall, Aizawl Aizawl at Vanapa The Mizoram Presbyterian Church organised MPF Rally at Vanapa Hall, Aizawl The Mizoram Presbyterian Church organized the MPF Rally at Vana Pa Hall, Aizawl OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 31 WORLD COUNCIL OF CHURCHES: A HISTORICAL OVERVIEW - Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha The world Council of Churches (WCC) is the broadest and most inclusive among the many organizations of the modern ecumenical movement. It is an international ecumenical organization of Protestant, Anglican, and Orthodox churches. The rise of the WCC may be in Utrecht in 1938, when the World seen historically through the ecu- Council of Churches in Process of menical conferences of the early Formation was set up. Delayed by twentieth century. From the World the World War II, the WCC was Missionary Conference held at founded in 1948 as delegates of 147 Edinburgh in 1910, three streams churches (of which 144 were memof the Ecumenical Movement de- bers) from 44 countries met in Amveloped. The first stream, the In- sterdam. The last two streams ternational Missionary Council merged at this meeting. After much (IMC) whose roots can be traced debate during the 1950s, the IMC directly to Edinburgh, was offi- also was merged into the WCC at cially formed in 1921. The second the New Delhi Assembly in 1961. str eam, the Faith and Or der In 2008 the WCC has 349 Movement, came from the vision churches, denominations and church of cooperation generated at Edin- fellowships in more than 110 counburgh and held its first conference tries and territories throughout the at Lausanne in 1927. The third world, representing over 560 million stream, the Life and Work Move- Christians and including most of the ment, came largely as a result of world’s Orthodox churches, scores the work of the World Alliance for of denominations from such historic Promoting International Friendship traditions of the Protestant Reforand held its pioneering conference mation as Anglican, Baptist, Luin Geneva in 1925. A second meet- theran, Methodist and Reformed, as ing took place in Edinburgh in well as many united and independ1937, where the Life and Work ent churches. While the bulk of the Movement proposed the establish- WCC’s founding churches were ment of a World Council of European and North American, toChurches. A further step was taken day most are in Africa, Asia, the OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 32 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Caribbean, Latin America, the Middle East and the Pacific. Its basis is defined in the first article of its constitution, “The World Council of Churches is a fellowship of churches which confess the Lord Jesus as God and Saviour according to the Scriptures and therefore seek to fulfill together their common calling to the glory of the one God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” The WCC, headquartered in Geneva, includes all the main denominations of the West (except for the Roman Catholic Church and the Unitarians), most of the Eastern Orthodox Churches, and about two hundred other churches, chiefly from Asia and Africa. Three Programme Units facilitate the work of WCC: (1) Faith and Witness, (2) Justice and Service, and (3) Education and Renewal. The Ecumenical Institute at Bosseye, near Geneva, serves to train ecumenical leadership and promote scholarship. The WCC also has an ecumenical library, a communications office, and publishes the Ecumenical Review, a quarterly journal. For its member churches, the WCC is a unique space: one in which they can reflect, speak, act, worship and work together, challenge and support each other, share and debate with each other. As members of this fellowship, the WCC member churches (1) are called to the goal of visible unity in one faith and one Eucharistic fellowship, (2) promote their common witness in work for mission and evangelism, and (3) engage in Christian service by serving human need, breaking down barriers between people, seeking justice and peace, and upholding the integrity of creation; and foster renewal in unity, worship, mission and service. WCC Assemblies: The main vehicle by which the WCC extends its ecumenical vision is its Assemblies. Assemblies are held every seven or eight years, made up of delegates, youth delegates, observers, and accredited visitors. The Central Committee, made up of 150 members elected by the Assembly, meets annually to govern between Assemblies. An Executive Committee of sixteen members meets twice a year. 1st Assembly (Amsterdam 1948) – Theme: Man’s Disorder and God’s Design. At the first Assembly many were encouraged that the WCC agreed that evangelism must be on OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW the constant imperative for all Christians, and that the struggle to express the unity of Christians for the sake of effective witness must continue. It unconditionally affirmed: “All of our churches stand under the commission of our common Lord: Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.” Even so, two of Amsterdam’s key perspectives aroused a measure of concern within IMC circles: (1) the older pattern of missionary activity identified with mission agencies was coming to an eng; and (2) participating churches should awaken to their societal responsibilities and the ways in which lay ministries might be stimulated and augmented to this end. 2nd Assembly (Evanston, Illinois, USA 1954) – Theme: Christ, the Hope of the World. The theme’s eschatological implications stirred up a measure of public discussion, particularly among the Jewish leaders who had earlier reacted against Amsterdam’s call to the churches to engage in Jewish evangelism. The attention called to “the hope of Israel” (Rom 9-11) provoked discord. In the end political as well as theological considerations forced the issue to be dropped. In addition, given the ferment gener- 33 ated at Amsterdam that the function of mission agencies should be carried out centrally by the church in mission, at Evanston the legitimacy of the IMC was inevitably questioned. As for evangelism, Evanston enlarged the call to dialogue with people of other faiths. This was regarded as more congenial to the spirit of the age than was recourse to “outdated, conversionary forms of evangelistic mission.” 3rd Assembly (New Delhi, India 1961) – Theme: Jesus Christ, the Light of the World. Agreeing that the IMC had become redundant, WCC leaders welcomed the petition from the IMC Accra Conference (1958) seeking merger with the WCC. This request was heralded as the only way to bring the concerns of mission and unity to the heart of the Ecumenical Movement. Evangelicals reacted with much misgiving. They contended that the witness of church history is virtually unanimous in demonstrating that church leaders invariably were so preoccupied with maintaining present structures that they rarely had the interest, energy, and time to launch frontier mission efforts. Even so, the WCC-IMC merger was enthusiastically wel- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 34 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW comed, though it marked the beginning of the eclipse of missionary outreach in the WCC. Assembly at New Delhi should be particularly remembered for adopting a solid biblical basis to define itself: “The World Council of Churches is a fellowship of churches which confess the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour according to the Scriptures and therefore seek to fulfill together their common calling to the glory of the one God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit”. This promotion of the Trinity coupled with the ferment generated by the view of Jesus as “the Light of the World” meant that henceforth the WCC would be caught up in exploring the implications of his uniqueness, especially as the ecumenical movement seemed to be entering ever more directly into the context of nonChristian religions. A hopeful addition to the growing WCC interest in the ‘Theology of Mission’ was the call for a Trinitarian basis that could be related to all aspects of the church’s focus on mission, service, and unity. But there was a growing tendency to use “mission” to represent everything the churches were called upon to do in the world, a tendency promoted by the slogan “The Church is Mission”. The inevitable result was further devaluation of the traditional understanding of the specific evangelistic role of missionaries and mission agencies. 4th Assembly (Uppsala, Sweden 1968) – Theme: Behold, I make all things new. Uppsala meeting marked the beginning of widespread evangelical disenchantment with the direction was not given primary focus. The emphasis laid on the “humanization” as the goal of mission provoked the concern of the evangelicals as to the direction of the WCC. 5 th Assembly (Nairobi, Kenya 1975) – Jesus Frees and Unites. At this meeting, WCC’s emphasis on ‘dialogue’ with representatives of other living faiths was intensified. Nairobi is remembered for its earnest call for the visible unity of all Christians. It divided evangelicals. 6 th Assembly (Vancouver, Canada 1983) – Theme: Mission and Evangelism – An Ecumenical Affirmation. The Focus was on the familiar issues of Christian unity, evangelism, and what was described as “world affairs in ecumenical perspective”. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW During the Assembly about two hundred evangelicals caucused from time to time and eventually produced a statement encouraging evangelicals worldwide to add their prayers and gifts to the process of working for the renewal of the people of God. 7 th Assembly (Canberra, Australia 1991) – Theme: Come, Holy Spirit – Renew the Whole Creation. The convention was set on fire by the issue of ‘syncretism’. It also marked a decisive turning point in the history of WCC and the ecumenical movement as a whole. In the years that followed, serious concern grew among orthodox churches as to whether further association would be congenial with their theological heritage. The desire of evangelicals to continue to serve began to diminish. Financial considerations forced drastic reduction in budget and staff. Questions were raised as to the future of WCC. 8th Assembly (Harare, Zimbabwe 1998) - Theme: Together, Under the Cross in Africa. A Special Commission was set up by the eight Harare Assembly in December 1998 to address Ortho- 35 dox concerns about WCC membership and the Council’s decision-making style, public statements, worship practices and other issues. The Special Commission on Orthodox Participation in the WCC represents the potential for fresh and creative high level discussion about the structure and life of the Council, a discussion which is explicitly seen as continuing the foundations laid by the process and the policy document “Towards and Common Understanding and Vision of the WCC”. The Assembly was marked by the hot debate on the presence of the Orthodox Ecumenists. 9th Assembly (Porto Alegre, Brazil Feb. 2006) – God , in your grace, transform the world. The Assembly at Porto Alegre could be described as a time of encounter, prayer, celebration and deliberation for thousands of Christian women and men from around the world. A highlight of the 9th Assembly was the ecumenical partnership programme or ‘Mutirao’ a Portuguese word which means coming together, celebrating together, reflecting together. In other words, ‘Mutirao’ refers to an occasion when a community of people gather to do something together, such as construct a building. This name was OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 36 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW used at the Assembly for the large programme of workshops and presentations on matters of ecumenical concern which accompanied the business transacted by the delegates. At this Assembly the statement on ‘Water for Life’ was adopted. Commissions: There are two complementary approaches to ecumenism: dialogue and action. The Faith and Order Movement and Life and Work Movement represent these approaches. These approaches are reflected in the work of the WCC in its Commissions, these being. · · · · · · · · Commission of the Churches on Diakonia and Development Commission on Education and Ecumenical Formation Commission of the Churches on International Affairs Commission on justice, Peace and Creation Commission on World Mission and Evangelism Faith and Order Plenary Commission and the Faith and Order Standing Commission Joint Consultative Group with Pentecostals Joint Working Group WCCRoman Catholic Church (Vatican) · · · Reference Group on the Decade to Overcome Violence Reference Group on Inter-Religious Relations Special Commission on Orthodox Participation in the WCC. The WCC acts through both its member churches and other religious and social organizations to coordinate ecumenical, evangelical, and social action. Current WCC programmes include a Decade to Overcome Violence, an international campaign to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa and the Justice, Peace and Creation initiative. WCC’s Faith and Order Commission has been successful in working toward consensus on Baptism, Eucharist, and Ministry, on the date of Easter, on the nature and purpose of the church (ecclesiology), and on ecumenical hermeneutics. The 1952 meeting of the Faith and Order Commission, held in Lund, Sweden, produced the Lund Principle for ecumenical cooperation. The Commission has 120 members, including representation of churches who are not members of the WCC, among them the Roman Catholic Church. Members are men an women from around the world – pastors, laypersons, academics, church leaders nominated by their church. Baptism, Eucharist, and OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Ministry was published in 1982. It attempted to convergences that had been found over the years. It was sent to all member churches and six volumes of responses compiled. As a r es u l t , s ome chu r ches have changed their litur gical pr actices, and some have entered into discussions, which in turn led to further agreements and steps towards unity. A majo r s t u d y on t h e c hu r ch (ecclesiology) is being undertaken examining the question ‘What it means to be a church, or the Chur ch?’ In particular with a focus on ecclesiology and ethics focusing on the churches/ Church’s ‘prophetic witness and its service to those in need’. Faith and Order is collaborating with Justice, Peace and Creation to answer the questions: · How can the search for unity be a source of renewal for both the church and the world? · What does our increasing cooperation on issues of justice, peace and the creation teach us about the nature of the church? · What is the relationship between ethnicity, nationalism, and church unity? It is important to note that Material for the Week of Prayer for 37 Christian Unity is prepared annually with the Roman Catholic Church. Focuses: Justice, Peace and Creation have drawn many elements together with an environmental focus. The mandate is: To analyze and reflect on justice, peace and creation in their interrelatedness, to promote values and practices that make for a culture of peace, and to work towards a culture of solidarity with young people, women, Indigenous Peoples and racially and ethnically oppressed people. Focal issues have been globalization and the emergence of new social movements (in terms of people bonding together in the struggle for justice, peace and the protection of creation). Attention has been given to issues around economy, environment, Indigenous Peoples, peace, people with disabilities, racism, women and youth. WCC and Roman Catholic: The largest Christian body, the Roman Catholic Church, is not a member of the WCC, but has worked closely with the Council for more than three decades, and since 1961 sends accredited observers to all major WCC conferences as well as to its Central Committee meet- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 38 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW ings and the Assemblies. The Second Vatican Council encouraged the setting up of the Joint Working Committee in 1965, which handles relations between the WCC and the Roman Catholic Church. Its members are jointly appointed by the Vatican and the WCC. Cooperation was furthered in 1968 when the Roman Catholic Church became a full member of the Faith and Order Commission of the WCC to which it nominates 12 members. Controversy and criticism: There has been controversy within the WCC about its programmes and actions. Orthodox and Evangelical member churches have sought to make clear the nature of their involvement and limits on the authority of the WCC to speak on their behalf. Many churches have opted to stay out of the WCC, accusing it of being dominated by liberals and (or) leftists. Through the Programme to Combat Racism, the Council was involved in several activities that caused controversy and criticism, including the funding for humanitarian purposes of groups engaged in liberation struggles during the 1970s, as in South Africa. Several conservative Eastern orthodox Christians consider the Council (as well as any union with non-Orthodox Christians) as heretical, and demand officials from the Eastern Orthodox Church to abdicate their membership. The WCC has been described by some as taking anti-Semitic positions in connection with its criticisms of Israeli policy. They believe the Council has focused more on activities and publications criticizing Israel than on other human rights issues. The WCC has rejected this accusation. The World Council of Churches increasingly since its fourth Assembly at Uppsala, Sweden, in 1968 has turned to the left socially, economically, and politically, making salvation earthly and physical rather than individual and spiritual. Another commission meeting at Bangkok, Thailand, in 1973 interpreted the theme ‘Salvation Today’ as the ‘humanizing of society’ to free man from all forms of oppression and to create a new society on earth. The fifth Assembly at Nairobi, Kenya, in 1975 supported “nonmilitary guerrilla programs” of revolution and adopted what amounted to liberation theology oriented toward socialism. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW A special mention should be made about controversy over the WCC’s Programme to Combat Racism during 1970s. It funded a number of humanitarian programmes of liberation movements while those groups were involved in violent struggle which examples include: (1) In 1970, Reader’s Digest suggested that the PCR was contributing to 14 groups involved in revolutionary guerrilla activities, some of which were Communist in ideology and receiving arms from the Soviet Union (Reader’s Digest, October, 1971). (2) In 1977, “The Fraudeulent Gospel” by Bernard Smith ISBN 0-89601-007-4 was published in the USA and Britain and carried a graphic photo on the front cover of 27 Black Rhodesians it said were “massacred by WCCfinanced terrorists in Eastern Rhodesia in December 1976”. (3) Donating $85,000 to the Patriotic Front of Zimbabwe (ZANU) in 1978, months after the group shot down and airline, killing 38 of the 56 passengers on board. Members are reported to have killed 10 survivors. This was denied by the Front. However, this caused much controversy in the past among mem- 39 ber churches. In a Time Magazine article entitled “Going Beyond Charity: Should Christian cash be given to terrorists?” (October 2, 1978). Further examination of WCC’s political programme appeared in Amsterdam to Nairobi The World Council of Churches and the Third World by Ernest W. Lefever (1979, Georgetown University, ISBN 0-89633-025-7). Evangelical Christians have been critical of the WCC, chiefly because of its doctrinal laxity and its policy of funding radical political movements. Acriticism with regard to WCC’s tolerance to accept polygamy arose at the Harare Assembly. The general secretary of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC), Densen Mafinyani, has urged the World Council of Churches (WCC) to stop quibbling over whether anAfrican church which tolerates polygamyshould be accepted as a WCC member. Successes: Some of the notable successes of the WCC are in the area of increased understanding and acceptance between Christian groups and denominations. Mutual understand- OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 40 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW ing has developed through the Faith and Order related activities: the Baptism, Eucharist and Ministry process has been positive. The WCC has facilitated dialogue and supported local, national, and regional dialogue and cooperation. (Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha is the Sr. Executive Secretary of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church and a former Secretary of the North East India Christian Council) OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 41 MERITS AND DEMERITS OF BEING A MEMBER OF WCC - Rev. K. Lungmuana It gives me particular pleasure to express my view on ‘Merits and demerits of being a member of WCC’ since Presbyterian Church of India (PCI) [formerly known as Presbyterian Church In North East India (PCNEI)] came into contact officially with W.C.C. twenty years ago. The WCC extended an invitation to the Assembly of PCNEI to attend W.C.C. Central Committee held in Hanover, Germany, 1986 as an observer. My dear colleague, Rev. D.E. Syiem and I did not know who invited us and for what we were asked to attend at such an important global decision making body! Eventually, the Working Committee asked me to attend the Committee. We then came to know that WCC invited PCNEI to be a member of W.C.C. After sometime the Working Committee placed the matter on membership of the PCNEI in the W.C.C. at PCNEI Assembly Meeting. The members of the Assembly looked into the Constitution thoroughly, but the PCNEI kept the matter in abeyance. As the PCI is in the process of reviving discussion on membership in the WCC, let me outline merits and demerits of being member of the W.C.C. for careful reflections and deliberations. A. MERITS OF BEING MEMBER OF WCC: Let me share with you in brief, ways in which PCI may benefit from WCC and which may contribute to the global ministry of WCC if PCI becomes a member of WCC. 1. PCI will be involved in the global ministry in a visible and more meaningful way: By being a member of WCC, PCI will involve itself in the world- wide ministry as one of the full/voting members of WCC, which has more than 330 members in it. The unknown church will become a known church in and through the ministry of WCC. At the same time PCI would contribute in a more realistic way to the wider ministry through WCC. 2. To become one of the family members of WCC in India: There are now 9 member churches and associate members in India. The OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 42 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW unity of the church in India will be more meaningful if PCI becomes member of WCC especially in India. All-important information from WCC will be intimated officially to PCI for taking action if any, in a more concerted way along with other WCC Members in India and abroad. 3. To become member of WCC decision making body: The member churches are the only qualified bodies who can hold the office of the Presidium and the four Officers who are elected during the Assembly meeting for 7 consecutive years. And also, 150 Central Committee members are elected from among member churches who are the Official representatives of the WCC Assembly. Not only that, there are two other important committees like Members of the Executive and Finance Committee of Central Committee. 4. To become statutory member of the 4 main units and various sub-units committees of WCC: Under the 4 main units of WCC like 1) Unit I: Unity and Renewal 2) Unit II: Churches in Mission: Health, Education, Witness. 3) Unit III: Justice, Peace and Creation. 4) Unit IV: Sharing and Service. There are 4 or 5 different Committ ees each, for which member s ar e s elect ed fr om among member churches. Apart from the main Unit Committees, there are many Sub-Unit Committees along with Consultants and Co-opted Members in each Unit and Sub-Unit Committees. The members of the Unit, Sub-Unit Committees, Consultants and Coopted are selected from among the member churches and Church Councils. 5. To be WCC Programme Staff: Apart from the General Secretary of WCC, there are many programme Staff at WCC Secretariat and for the 4 Units as also for the Sub-Units of WCC. Posts are created for Executive Directors, Executive Secretaries, Coordinators, Consultants and so on. Different Unit Committees and sub-unit Committees look after each Unit. The Programme Staff are appointed from among member churches and Church Councils. 6. Involvement in the World Youth Projects (WYP): WYP seeks to involve young people in the ecumenical sharing of resources in ways relevant to OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW their particular situation. The projected programmes are initiated by local, national or regional groups, which set their own priorities. Under this project, there is the STEWARDS’ PROGRAMMES. Since the Nairobi Assembly in 1975, the Stewards’ Programme has become and increasingly important part of the Sub-Units works. About 40-50 Stewards have been present at every meeting of the Central Committee which meet 1218 months in between the Assembly meetings as well as at several of the major WCC Conference, e.g. Council for World Mission and Evangelism (EWME). Not only that, WCC regularly conducts PRE-YOUTH ASSEMBLY prior to every Assembly meeting where many Young people under 30 years flock together to know each other and learn from each other. In this way, the WCC brings together young peop le f r om among memb er chur ches and Councils for an enriching ecumenical dialogue and sharing. 7. To become visible part of the Presbyterian Fraternity around the World: 43 Many People, especially other denominations do not know or ignore the p r es ence of P r es byt er ian Churches in other parts of the World. Under the umbrella of WCC there are about 20 different backgrounds of Presbyterian Churches in different parts of the World. It is time even for PCI to know that Presbyterian C hu r ches of diff er ent b a ckgrounds work together side by side and hand in hand through the global activities of WCC. 8. To make known the activities and general ministry of PCI globally: The WCC used to publish now and then, the ‘Hand Book of WCC Member Churches’ to provide basic information about Churches, Council of Churches, Conferences and Communions which together constitute the ecumenical Fellowship of the WCC. It is one of the meaningful and informative ways for knowing and learning from each other for the holistic ministry of the Church. 9. To have more exposures for the local church irrespective of gender: Being member of WCC, Men and Women as well as Youth have been given opportunities for ecumenical exposures to wider world OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 44 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW through the different activities and portunities of sharing its burden to programmes of the units and Sub- preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ Units for the present and future life to those who have not heard HIS of the Church. For example, in 1989 name in one way or another. It could Miss P.C. Laltlani, Lay Theologian also share the other member and Librarian, ATC, attended the churches the way in which it takes Consultation on ‘Ministerial Forma- evangelization and social concerns tion for Mission Implication on Theo- in a more realistic and holistic way logical Education’ in Nairobi, Kenya through its participation in various organized by WCC and CWM. Consultations, Seminars, Work10. To become Church Leaders shops, etc. organized by WCC at at National and International various levels. levels: After having mentioned the merThere is no dearth of leader- its of being a member of WCC, we ship in PCI. But our present may come to know that member young and energetic ordained and churches could involve themselves in lay leaders have no access to be- the global ministry by participating in come leaders at national and in- various Committee, Sub-Committees, ternational levels because they do Consultations, Seminars, Workshops, not have opportunities to expose etc. organized by WCC. And also, themselves at the global ministry. qualified men and women, ordained and If PCI becomes a member of lay leaders could also appointed to the WCC, they will have chances to WCC Programme Staff in various parts involve themselves at various of the world not only in WCC HeadCommittee, Consultation, Semi- quarters, Geneva, Switzerland. nars, etc. for equipping themThe PCI would also be able to selves for National and Internacontribute its commendable activities tional leadership. It is truly said and projected programmes to other that man/woman is made by his/ parts of the world. That means PCI her experiences. may benefit from WCC for its minis11. To Preach the Gospel in a try and the same time, other members more holistic way: of WCC may get and learn good things By virtue of its membership in from the PCI. In other words, PCI the global ministry of WCC, even may think globally and act locally or an individual church can avail the op- think locally and act globally too. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW B. DEMERITS OF BEING A MEMBER OF WCC: I personally do not know any demerits for being a member of WCC. However, let me jot down some of the reservations some people seem to have about the WCC: 1. Allegation that the Roman Catholic (RCC) is a member of WCC: They allege that RCC is a member of WCC and even the Pope used to attend the Assembly meeting of WCC. 2. Allegation that WCC is a beast: They allege that the beast which is found from Daniel 7:3 and 17 is interpreted as WCC. 3. Allegation that World Religions Congress (WRC) is a member of WCC: It is alleged that WRC and WCC stand together and WRC is a member of WCC. 4. Allegation that WCC and European Common Market (ECM) have joined hands: It is said that ECM and WCC have joined hands and are working together for common causes. The things produced by ECM can only be bought by those people who have the bearing 666 Number. 45 5. Allegation that WCC is a man of Lawlessness, the Awful Horror and the Harlot: They interpreted ‘a man of Lawlessness’ which is found from II Thess. 2:4 and 4 is WCC, and the words ‘Awful Horror ’ from Matt. 24:15 is interpreted as WCC. So also the word ‘Harlot’ which is found from Rev. 12:1 is interpreted as WCC. The five reasons which are mentioned above for which some people seemed to have been alleged WCC are not theologically true to the best of my knowledge. Let me encounter all these allegations briefly one by one. 1) The Roman Catholic Church is not a member of WCC and the Pope never attended the Assembly meetings right from its inception. The representatives of the Political Council used to attend the Central Committee of WCC as invitees like CWM, WARC, etc. Once, a Joint Working Group (JWG) was formed for some time only. Of course, representatives from RCC used to attend some consultations organised by WCC for Christian Unity from time to time. 2) The beast as is found from Daniel 7:3 and 17 can be interpreted as the one who persecuted Israelites. So also the beast as OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 46 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW found from Rev. 13:1 can be interpreted as the Roman Government who persecuted the early Christian for their firm stand in their commitments. 3) The World Religions Council (WRC) is not an association. It is rather a loose platform or gathering, which have been organized as Consultation irregularly, for promoting World Peace, Humanity, etc. The WRC cannot be a member of WCC as people of other faiths are included in its leadership. 4) The WCC and ECM do not work together and there is no question of WCC being a member of ECM. It seems that the ECM was formed by few European Countries to rest ore their low economic conditions and damages caused by the Second World War. Any European country can buy any kind of goods produced by ECM without having a number bearing 666 with them. 5) The WCC which came into being from 1948 cannot be a man of Lawlessness, Awful Horror and a Harlot: It can be interpreted that a man of lawlessness as is found from II Thess. 2:3-4 as the one who made himself as a god and opposed any religion. And the Awful Horror which is found from Matt. 24:15 seemed to be Antiochus Ephiphanes who desecrated Jerusalem Temple. So also the word ‘Harlot’ found from Rev. 17:1 may be interpreted as the city of Rome that persecuted early Christians who stood firmed in their faith in Jesus Christ. Please bear in mind that the allegations, which are being mentioned, may not be relevant other than Mizoram, North Cachar Hills and Manipur. Of course these allegations have been often raised in Mizoram in particular. Conclusion: Let me say that PCI is already part of the WCC through its membership in the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI). The NCCI is an Associate Member of WCC. Some of the mandates given from WCC have already been followed and taken care by us, i.e. ‘Ecumenical Decade of the Churches in solidarity with Women’. ‘The Lima Document of the Eucharistic liturgy’, etc. I would like to conclude this paper by saying that the WCC is not just an Organization like any other. ‘It (WCC) is a Fellowship of Churches which confess the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour according to the scriptures and ther efor e seeks to fulfill OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW together their common calling to the glory of God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit’. That gives it an unmistakably churchly character. It is not itself a church; it is nothing but an instrument created by the member churches to serve the common calling for Christian unity in order that the world may believe. Only the chur ches and Council of Churches that confess the Lord Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior can only be member of the WCC. Over the 60 years since it’s founding at the first Assembly at Amsterdam in 1948, though the pr e-histor y is conventionally dated back to the World Missionary Conference at Edinburgh in 1910, the WCC has grown strikingly towards being the ‘World Church’. Are we, member of the Pr esbyterian Church of India willing to become a member of the Fellowship of Chur ches? SHALOM! 47 BIBLIOGRAPHY 1. Nairobi to Vancouver: WCC, Geneva, Switzerland,1983 2. Hand Boo, Member Churches of WCC: Van der Bert Ans J. Geneva, Switzerland, 1985 3. Year Boo 1997, WCC: Raiser Konrad, Geneva, Switzerland, 1997 4. WCC Central Committee Minutes: WCC, Geneva, Switzerland, 1982 5. Introducing WCC: Van Elderen Marlin, Geneva, Switzerland, 1990 6. That’s When the Body Works: Conway Martin, Selly Oak Colleges, U.K. 1991 7. WCC: Lalbiaktluanga, Rev. Aizawl, Mizoram, 1992 8. Khawvel Pum Huapa Kan Rawngbawlpuite Chanchin, Lungmuana, K. Rev., Aizawl, Mizoram, 2000. (Rev. K. Lungmuana is a former Moderator of the Mizoram Presbyterian Church Synod, General Secretary of NCCI and General Secretary of the All India Sunday School Association) OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 48 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW REPORT OF THE TWELFTH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE OF PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP, 2008 - Ms. Lalrindiki Ralte and Ms. Lalthansangi Fanai The Presbyterian Women’s Fellowship was formed under the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of India in 1985 especially for the fellowship of women and for further development of ministry amongst women of the Presbyterian Church of India. Initially there were eight(8) Units - Mizoram Synod, KJP Synod Mihngi, KJP Synod Sepngi, CHT Synod, Manipur Synod, Ri Bhoi Synod, Biateram Synod, Zou Synod - and two (2) Associate Members - Barak Presbytery and Meitei Presbytery. Conferences have been held continuously every two years since, 1986, with Seminars/ Workshops every alternate year. The first PWF Conference with the theme Jesus calls us to serve (Mark 10:45) was held at Mawkhar Church, Shillong, during May 9-12, 1986. The 12th Biennial Conference of the PWF was held at Electric Vêng Presbyterian Church, Aizawl, Mizoram during 24th – 26th October, 2008. Due to the disturbed situation in Manipur, the venue for the Conference was shifted from Manipur to Mizoram at the last minute. The theme of the Conference was ‘Renewal in the Holy Spirit’ (Zech. 4:6). 292 delegates from different units such as Mizo Synod, KJP Synod Mihngi, KJP Synod Sepngi, CHT Synod, RiBhoi Synod, Biateram Synod, Manipur Synod, Zou PC Synod and associate units such as Meitei Presbytery and Barak Presbytery attended the Conference. On 24th October, 2008 (Friday) the Standing Committee met in the forenoon and in the afternoon the Nomination Committee had a meeting. The Inaugural Worship Service was held in the night from 6:00 p.m. In this service Mrs. L. Muani Darnei, Chairperson, PWF chaired the meeting and the Welcome Address was delivered by Rev. Dr. Lalhmangaiha, Sr. Executive Secretary i/c PWF, Mizoram Synod. The Inauguration and Keynote Address was delivered by Rev. Lalramliana Pachuau, Administrative Secretary i/c PWF. On 25th October, 2008 (Saturday) Bible Study was held between 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. The Bible Study was conducted by Ms. OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Lalrindiki Ralte, Lecturer, Aizawl Theological College on the theme “Parousia and Women’s Liberation” based on I Thessalonians 4:13-5:11. The leader emphasized the connection between Parousia, which was used to designate the Second Coming of Christ, as a liberative act from all kinds of bondages with the liberation of women from patriarchal values and practices. However, the expected reign of God to be fulfilled through the Second Coming was already inaugurated with the birth of Jesus in the world. Hence, the work of liberation has to begin from the present while we are eagerly waiting for its consummation at the Second Coming. The Bible Study was followed by lively interactions between the leader and the delegates through clarifications, comments and questions. The Business Session was held on the same day, i.e. 25th October from 10:00 a.m. onwards. Some of the important resolutions were: 1) To support an Interserve Missionary by contributing Rs. 2,000 per month. 2) To conduct a Seminar/ Consultation during 2009 on the 3) 4) (i) (ii) (iii) 5) 6) 49 theme “Status of Women in the Church”. The Annual Budget for the year 2008-2010 amounting to Rs. 3,98,800. To seek representation in different committees of PCI General Assembly such as: Theological Education Committee Mission and Evangelism Committee Christian Communication Committee To seek delegation of Theologically trained women to PWF Conference To celebrate PWF Silver Jubilee during the 13th Biennial Conference of PWF to be held at Mawkhar Presbyterian Church, Shillong. Evening Public Worship Service was held from 6:00 p.m. which was led by Mrs. Deem Melody, Vice Chairperson, PWF. The Speaker of the Conference, Mrs. V. Vanlalruati, Mizoram Synod, delivered the first part of her speech on the theme “Renewal in the Holy Spirit”. The speaker gave inspiring introduction OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 50 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW on the theme, and her zeal and enthusiasm greatly inspired the listeners. On 26th October 2008 (Sunday), which was the last day of the Conference, Holy Communion Service was held in the morning between 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. The Celebrant was Rev. Dr. H. Vanlalauva, Moderator, Mizoram Synod. It was a solemn and spiritual service which enriched the theme of the Conference. Public Worship Service was held in the forenoon from 10:00 a.m. onwards. The service was led by Mrs. L. Muani Darnei, Chairperson, PWF. The Speaker, Mrs. V. Vanlalruati, continued to speak on the theme where she emphasized the need to be renewed in the Holy Spirit in our everyday life. She concluded her sermon by reciting a prayer of healing for those who want to be healed from their physical sickness. Some people from the congregation announced the physical healing they received through the prayer of the Speaker. It was a moving and inspiring service. The second worship service was held in the afternoon from 1:30 p.m. onwards. The service was led by Mrs. Deem Melody, Vice Chairperson, PWF. In this service, mass prayer was held for the victims of Orissa violence and the offering collected was dedicated to help them. The Speaker, Mrs. V. Vanlalruati, concluded the last part of her sermon based on the theme “Renewal in the Holy Spirit”. She highlighted the dangerous influence of media and religious fanaticism which can easily destroy our spiritual life in Jesus Christ. Once again, she concluded her sermon with a prayer for healing the sick. The congregation gained new insights and experiences through the ministry of Mrs. V. Vanlalruati. The closing worship service was held from 6:00 p.m. and it was led by Mrs. L. Muani Darnei, Chairperson, PWF. Installation ofthe newly elected PWF leaders for the year 2008-2010 was conducted by Rev. E.F. Lyngdoh, Moderator of PCI. The Moderator also delivered the concluding sermon of the 12th Biennial Conference of PWF. The atmosphere of the 12th Biennial Conference of the PWF was full of warmth and goodwill. It seemed that the theme of the Conference “Renewal in the Holy Spirit” OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW greatly inspired the hearts and minds of all those who played different roles for the success of the Conference. The delegates expressed their sincere appreciation regarding the manner in which Electric Veng Presbyterian Church hosted the Conference, particularly within such short notice. The reception, the food, medical care and all other services rendered by the host Church made the delegates feel that they were treated as VIPs. The delegates were also thankful to the leaders of the Mizoram Synod as well as to the PWF, Mizoram Synod for making it possible to conduct the Conference in Mizoram. They also appreciated the way in which the public worship services were enhanced by the beautiful songs rendered by at least two different choirs during each service. The presence of former leaders from Mizoram Synod, such as Mrs. Zomuani, Mrs. P.C. Laltlani and Dr. T. Vanlaltlani was also acknowledged. Above all, the 12th Biennial Conference of the PWF highlighted and glorified the nature of God, who accepts and blessed the min- 51 istries of marginalized women. Report for the year 2006-2008 : According to the report of the Conference, the number of Christian Families is 1,87,002 and the number of women member in the church is 2,97,423. The PWF is supporting seven Full Time Workers, 949 workers in mission fields. There are 149 theologically trained women out of which 32 are employed under the church. The Office Bearers of 2006-2008 were : Chairperson : Mrs. L. Muani Darnei (Biateram Synod) Vice Chairperson : Mrs. Deem Melody (Manipur Synod) Secretary : Mrs. Rachelbon Myrboh (Ri Bhoi Synod) Asst. Secretary : Mrs. Lalliantluangi (Mizoram Synod) Treasurer : Mrs. G. Dkhar (KJP Synod Mihngi) Committee Members from Mizoram Synod were : Standing Committee : Mrs. Lalrinkimi Mrs. Zohmingthangi Mrs. Vanlalpawli Nomination Committee : Mrs. K. Laltluangi PWF Leaders for 2009-2010 were elected by the floor in the second session of the Conference 23rd October, 2008 OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 52 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW (Saturday). The newly elected leaders of the Office Bearers for 2008 – 2010 are as follows : Chairperson : Mrs. C. Nunsangi (Manipur Synod) Vice-Chairperson : Mrs. Melti Meris Lyngdoh (KJP Synod Sepngi) Secretary : Mrs. Lalliantluangi (Mizo Synod) Asst. Secretary : Mrs. Zomalsawmi (CHT Synod) Treasurer : Mrs. G. Dkhar (KJP Synod Mihngi) Standing Committee Members from Mizoram Synod are: Standing Committee : Mrs. V.L. Hrimi Mrs. Lalthansangi Fanai Mrs. Lalthanmawii Sailo Nomination Committee : Mrs. C. Lalbiakdiki (Ms. Lalrindiki Ralte, Teacher, Social Analysis at the Aizawl Theological College and Mrs. Lalthansangi Fanai is a PWF Standing Committee Member) OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 53 85TH MEETING OF THE MIZORAM PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH SYNOD - Rev. Lalthangpuia Fanai Lecturer, ATC Preface Synod is the highest constitutional meeting of Mizoram Presbyterian Church under the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church of India. It uses to have annual meeting on the second week of December. This year it took place during 4-14th December, 2008 and it was hosted by Ramhlun North Presbyterian Church. It was attended by 1,703 delegates including 14 from fraternal bodies. five ordained ministers. It produces six active pastors and eighteen missionaries. The church has a good preparation to host a grand gathering Synod meeting with a budget of Rs. 8,00,000/. They warmly received the delegates and all the time served the gathering Reception at the Ramhlun North with a delicious, vitaminous and fresh Presbyterian Church premesis snacks and tea. The spiritual atmosphere was wonderful. The Synod and The Hosting Church. all the delegates expressed their sincere Ramhlun North Church is under gratitude to the hosting church and Ramhlun North Pastorate of Aizawl wished them the best in future. Bethel Presbytery. It was started as Preaching Station in 1st May,1971 and became upgraded to a full-fledged Inauguration of the Synod church in 17th December 1972. The present church building was dedicated in 19th December 1987. Its size is 110’x87’ with a sitting capacity of 1,450. The local church comprises of 844 families, 3,141 communicant members and 4,324 members. The Church Committee has 26 members including OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 54 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW Officers The officers of this Synod were as follows: Moderator Rev H. Lalchhanhima i/c Republic Pastorate, Aizawl Secretary (Sr) Upa C. Lalmuankima, Mission Veng Secretary (Jr.) – Rev C. Lal\anliana i/c Chanmari Pastorate, Aizawl Finance Officers TheDrSynod Moderator, Rev. Rev R. Lalbiakmawia E/S, Synod Office Rev C. Rosiama Mission Veng Statistician Upa Dr L.N.Tluanga Mission Veng Sr. Exe. Secretary Rev Dr. Lalhmangaiha Synod Office Executive Secretary Rev Zosangliana Colney Synod Office The Officers elected for the coming Synod meeting to be held in Mission Vengthlang during 2th-13th December, 2009 are as follows: Moderator Rev C. Chawngliana i/c Dawrpui Vengthar Pastorate Secretary (Sr) Rev C. Lal\anliana i/c Chanmari Pastorate Secretary (Jr) Upa Vanlalhuma Chawnpui Veng Finance Officers Rev Dr. R. Lalbiakmawia E/S, Synod Office Rev C. Rosiama Mission Veng Statistician Rev Thangzauva Mission Veng Sr Exe. Secretary Rev Dr. Lalhmangaiha Synod Office Executive Secretary Rev Zosangliana Colney Synod Office Significant Resolutions In this Synod meeting, the following important resolutions were made: 1) Auditors for different accounts of the Synod for 2008-09 were appointed; 2) Delegates to 8 fraternal bodies were appointed; 3) Under the Pastoral head, a) All the 53 Probationary Pastors passed their annual examinations; OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 55 b) Six (6) senior pastors are bid power project with the state government farewell effective from January, 2009; authorities (Gen 29); c) 19 Probationary Pastors are 7) It is resolved to start Music class in ordained this year; the children Sunday School (Gen 36); d) 20 new Probationary Pastors 8) It is resolved to reject a person with were installed this year; tattoo in his body as Probationary Pase) 15 Probationary Pastors are tor (Gen 41); recommended for 9) It is resolved to ordination in 2009; make use of expert auditors for Synod f)Meitei accounts (Gen 42); Presbytery is bifurcated into Imphal 10) It is resolved to Presbytery and have a common term Loktak Presbytery; ‘Tual Upa’ for nonordained elected g) 17 new church committee Pastorates are cremembers (Gen 48); ated (5 within + 12 outside Mizoram); 11) It is resolved that SEC should not, exh) 16 pastors are cept on emergency allowed to pursue case, resolve new further studies policy matter unless (D.Th; M.Th; it was earlier disD.Min; B.D. and cussed by the Synod A choir sings in the Synod Worship ATC Special (Gen 55); Service course); 12) The proposal to i) Transfer and posting is done affecting 72 pastors and 21 probationary have Regional Assembly by bifurcating Mizoram Synod was turned down pastors. (Gen 62); 4) It is resolved to see the possibility of establishing Presbyterian Hospital in 13) It was resolved to combine Health Sunday and Hospital Sunday (Gen 67); Lunglei /Southern area (Gen 9); 5) The Synod reaffirms its stand on the 14) The pending agendum of 2007 Synod heart-shocking demise of Rev (Gen 21) about altering the pension age Chanchinmawia on the 1st October, 2007 of Ordained Ministers was resolved to follow our present practice (Gen 68); (cf. SEC 214:85) (Gen 22); 6) The S. E. C. is authorized to pursue 15) It is reported that 10 of our working the matter of constructing large Hydel staff are retiring from January 2009; OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 56 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 16) Kristian Tlangau is allowed to celebrate Centenary on 2011; 17) The proposal to make Synod committee/board membership having chaincontinuity is approved; 18) It is resolved to exchange delegates with CCI (M); 19) The SEC is authorized to finalise Commission Report on PRESCOM and SL&PB; 20) Administrative Guidelines for South Mizoram, Barak Area, and Manipur Area are approved; 21) Synod Pay Commission Report is approved to be effective from January 2009; SEC is authorized to finalise in case there are minor loopholes; 22) It is resolved to prepare Children Adoption rules for Synod employees; 23) It is resolved in principle to have partnership agreement with Lairam Isua Krista Baptist Kohhran and Zou Synod; 24) It is agreed to publish Staff Notation edition of Christian Hymn Book; 25) SEC is authorized to finalise the Synod Service Rules, and the Synod Recruitment Rules; 26) The Synod PPF Rules is approved; 27) The MTC shall be upgraded as a Degree College from 2010; a separate administrative set up for Presbyterian Hindi Bible School is accepted; 28) The Budget estimate for 2009-10 is Rs 69,28,89,800.00, and is accepted; 29) The Synod Statistics Report, Secretary’s report, and Departmental reports are received and accepted; 30) The following proposals are turned down for the time being: a) Buying CT Scan for Presbyterian Hospital; b) Starting Nursing Home in Lunglei; c) Establishing Students’ Hostel in Lunglei; Congregational Singing in the Synod Worship Service OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW d) Establishing another Rescue Home; e) Establishing a separate Martyrs’ graveyard; f) Posting Administrative Secretary in all the district (Govt.) capitals; g) Establishing another SMTC in Lunglei; all the district (Govt.) capitals; h)Recommending Revds Z.T. Sangkhuma and Lalchhuanliana for D.D to the Senate of Serampore College authorities; i) Guideline for Aizawl Theological College, it is to be presented next year. 31) Status quo is maintained in 39 agenda. Other Memorable records 1. The requests from Serampore College and John Roberts Theological Seminary for the service of Professor in Theology subject are received positively, and SEC is authorized to see convenient persons to comply with the request. 2. A recommended list of Probationary Pastor applicants is to be notified on the same evening; 3. It is resolved to forward the matter of receiving migrant ministers from/to different Synods to the PCI General Assembly; 4. Present and retired Moderators are expected to use clerical collar & shirt on the Ordination service (Gen 31); 5. The list of denominations with whom we have partnership-relationship be revised; 57 6. It is a shame that two Presbyteries did not turn up to move their agenda. Observation This Synod is unique in many ways: 1. Six of the eight Synod Officers are members of one local church, Mission Veng; 2. The duration of business is the ever lengthiest one – four full days and three nights; 3. The refreshment is not less than superb, the first time that fruits (Apple and Grapes) are provided to all the delegates; 4. The physical and spiritual preparation of the hosting church is highly commendable; they receive and see us off with smiling face even after midnight; 5. Since the Secretary (Jr) is one of the two oldest serving pastors, the Moderator of 2009 Synod will be younger and junior to the secretary, which seems to be the first event of its kind; 6. Of the 18 new Pro. Pastors, four are from one Presbytery (Aizawl North), and the Synod failed to keep its earlier resolution of ‘rejecting persons not free from smoking as Pro. Pastor and for ordination’. 7. Many of the agenda are too minor; it would be better if it is referred to the concerned departments. Presbyteries need to be more careful in future. As a whole, our Synod meeting is smooth and successful, the prayer support of the church is answered from above, God is kind to us, let praises be to him. We hope to meet again in Mission Vengthlang in the next Synod . OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 58 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW WAN T E D The United Theological College, Bangalore 560 046, calls for applications from qualified candidates for the following faculty position. Lecturer/Associate Professor/Professor in Communication (in the Department of Communication) Qualification : An earned doctorate recognized by the Senate of Serampore College in the respective field of specialization, preferably with teaching experience at the post graduate level. Candidates with M.Th. are also eligible to apply. Application should include curriculum vitae with a bibliography of published works and at least two selected samples of scholarly publications, as well as photocopies of the degree certificates. Applications may be sent on or before April 15, 2009 to : The Principal The United Theological College Post Bost 4613, 63 Miller’s Road Benson Town Post Bangalore - 560 046 Fax 0091-80-233 0015 Bangalore March 5, 2009 (Dr. Israel Selvanayagam) Principal ________ OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008 PRESBYTERIAN REVIEW 59 RNI Regd. No. 67377/96 To __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ __________________________ If undelivered, Please Return to : The Manager, Presbyterian Review Aizawl Theological College Durtlang, Mizoram - 796001 INDIA Published by Mr. F. Lalsangliana at Aizawl, Mizoram on behalf of Mizoram Presbyterian Church, Synod, and Printed at the Synod Press, Aizawl - 796 001, Mizoram OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2008