ZBC renamed as Chin Baptist Convention
25 March 2013: The name of Chin State’s largest Christian organization ‘Zomi Baptist Convention’ will be officially changed to ‘Chin Baptist Convention’ (CBC) with effect from 1 April 2013.
During ZBC’s 21st Triennial Conference held in Kalaymyo of Sagaing Division from 21-24 March, a unanimous agreement was reached for the new designation of the Chin Baptist organization after 60 years.
More than 400 representatives from a total of 28 associations, together with Rev. Dr. C. Duh Kam, Rev. Dr. Cung Lian Hup and Rev. Dr. Chum Awi from USA as well as special guests from Myanmar Baptist Convention and Kachin Baptist Convention attended the Kalaymyo event.
“There must have been many reasons but I think the name ‘Chin’ should have been used at the first time ZBC was formed,” said Pastor Shwekey Hoipang, from Mindat Township of Chin State.
“We have many local names with which we call ourselves in each of our areas. It is much better to use a name which is more inclusive and widely accepted both nationally and internationally,” added the Dai Chin pastor.
Despite a pool of messages posted in welcoming the new name, there are some negative responses to the move taken at the conference.
Among many decisions involves a joint Christian mission venture, a follow-up program to CCOC (Chins for Christ in One Century), between CBC and CBCUSA (Chin Baptist Churches USA), an umbrella organization comprised of 57 churches based in the US.
A message posted on CBCUSA’s website last Saturday reads: “Dr. Cung Lian Hup, CCOC Follow-up Mission Director, takes with him an invitation letter of CBCUSA to ZBC’s 21st Triennial Conference. Representatives of ZBC show their willingness to work with CBCUSA and they make decisions.”
Formed in 1983, CCOC was an evangelical mission under the Evangelism and Mission Program of the Zomi Baptist Convention. The program came to an end in 1999, the year that marked a centennial celebration of the arrival of Christianity in Chin State.
The name Zomi Baptist Convention was first adopted in March 1953 dur a general meeting held in Saikah, now in Thantlang Township.
