EBCC DELHI BCD GRADUATION PROGRAM 2013

1 December, 2013

FIRST SESSION (11 am onwards)

Justine Luaithang opened the First Session with scripture reading of Philippians 3:15-20 and prayer

Praise with ‘Zing Ninou Hongsuah Chiang’, ‘Nang Na Lian Hi’, ‘10000 Reasons’ and Mass Prayer for the 7 guys who are leaving the Children Department followed in succession.

BCD Superintendant L/Upa Thangson introduced Lianding Guite, Child Coordinator, who came to Delhi for the occasion, and the fresh graduates for whom the event was organized -

1.       Bliss Ningnem d/o N. Langel was born in Delhi on the 12 September, 1995, attended BCD, Delhi right from Beginner Class, accepted Christ as Lord and Savior on 25 October, 2008 and received baptism, does English Honors in Hindu College, wants to make her parents happy.

2.       Niangthianching d/o H. Liansangmuan was born in 20 October, 1995, joined BCD Delhi in 2013 in Senior Class, accepted Christ as Lord and Savior on 28 June, 2013 and received baptism, takes interest in singing and sketching, presently doing BBA in Softdot, New Delhi and wants to become a successful business woman.

3.       H. Nemthianmoi d/o H. Thangsiam was born in 1 December, 1995, Joined BCD Delhi in the year 2010 in Junior Class, recipient of SSPP Meritorious Award in 2011, takes interest in badminton, singing, drawing and reading, does BSc (Hons) in Botany in Deshbandu College, and wants to become a doctor.

4.       Langsangmuan s/o B. Ginkhanmang was born in 24 June, 1995, attended BCD Delhi right from Beginner Class, accepted Christ as Lord and Savior on 28 November 2010 and received baptism, has a matured mind and loves listening to music (in fact he is gifted in music) and reading, does class XII in St. Columbus and wants to become an architect.

5.       K. Lalthang s/o K. Nenghoumang joined BCD Delhi in Senior Class in 2013, accepted Christ as Lord and Savior on 23 April, 2007, has a good academic record, had received awards in the areas of Debate, Essay Writing and Speech Competition, which are his hobbies, does English (Hons) in PGDAV College and wants to become a successful journalist.

6.       Manglianthang Tonsing s/o Capt Lalsuonglien, attended BCD since 2008 whence he joined Senior Class, has a pleasing personality adored by friends, is good at drawing, sketching and painting, spends his leisure reading, does FYBA in St Xavier College, Mumbai and wants to become a well known personality and a blessing to many people.

7.       Lianthiansiam s/o (L) Ginpi, joined BCD, Delhi in 2004 in Primary Class, has bagged Sunday School Honors Certificate, accepted Christ as Lord and Savior on 15 November, 2008 and received baptism, is well behaved among friends, has a gift in music, drawing, music and gaming are his hobbies, wants to become a good animator, studies in Hope Hall Foundation.

The Superintendant handed over the list of graduates to Chairman Tualsung Baptist Saptuam Upa Committee (TBSUC) who, in turn gave a brief outline on what it means to become a responsible adult.

Pastor V. Nenglian prayed for them.

A melodious counseling from BCD Teachers to keep on the ‘Suny Side’ of life followed. In the same medium Beginner Class also expressed their desire to see their seniors ‘Happy All the Time’.

Worship in offering was dedicated by Upa T. Kaithang.

Upa Thiankhanmuan, Assistant Secretary to the TBSUC announced the (i) invitation to the Church made by Mangcha Phaltual, Mission Board Chairman of EOC at the betrothal ceremony of his daughter Miss Unity Phaltual at 2.30 pm on 7 December, 2013 at Mizoram House, Vasant Vihar; (ii) the marriage of Mr Phunggoutan s/o Upa Damsawmthang to be solemnized on 21 December, 2013 with Zamthianhoih d/o Thangkim Samte  at EBCC Vengnuam, New Lamka; and (iii) result of election for Tualsung Baptist Missions Committee (TBMC) and TB Dorcas Committee held on 17 November, 2013.

Lianding Guite reminded the congregation about the need to remain steadfast spiritually with his ‘Zesu a om’.

The Pastor had conducted counseling with the graduates the day before with a sumptuous finishing in KFC.

The 14 Sunday School (SS) teachers who facilitated the moment after painstaking teaching and mentoring were commended with a round of applause. The SS also has 3 guest lecturers, 2 from TBSUC and one from BYF (specifically assigned to teach tonic solfa once a month). A crusade was held for the children last year. Volunteers are called upon to enlist for SS Teaching work for the year 2014.

Then the Pastor welcomed the first timers.

An appropriately chosen topic of ‘Life Management’ requires of a person to (i) set priorities and (ii) implement goals, two of which always follow in that order.

The first priority is seeking the Kingdom of God, which will of course precede ‘all these thing’ in life. (Matt 6:13)

To Dr. Stroebel, an atheist the theory of creation had been nothing but a joke. But as he studied the scientific way in which life have come in to being, he was stuck with a question: who created atom? He had no answer. The result: he turned a Christian.

It’s one thing in life that matters. Jesus told Martha, “Only one thing is important” (Luke 10:41). Similarly the rich bachelor was told that in spite of his worldly possession, he still lacked one thing (Luke 10:21). In the same vein the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians that he did only one thing (Philippians 3:13)

The Pastor closed the first session in prayer. That was followed by lunch break.

SECOND SESSION (1.30 pm onwards)

After a heartwarming session of praise and worship with live music accompaniment, ‘Conductor for the second session, Mr Nicky Ginlallian called upon the main speaker.

Lianding Guite is married to Zahminglian and is blessed with a son, Minglalven.

Having read Matthew 6:33, Guite laid down a more detailed sequence of ‘to do’ list:  God-Family-Work.

He threw a question to the worshippers: How do you read the Bible, with doubt or with faith?

Life is breathed into a clay figure which became man as a result thereof.

Then there was another question: Is there life after death? For it is appointed unto men to die and face judgment thereafter (Hebrews 9:27)

It’s not only Stroebels efforts, all labour, watchfullnesses or ingenuity are bound to go in vain except under the guidance of the Lord, who gives sleep to His beloved.( Psalms 127:1-2). No wonder Moses refused to leave unless God would go with him. What Solomon, the wisest man on earth did was to love the Lord ( 1 Kings 3:3). Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. All man has to do is abide in Him (St John 14:6; 15:4). For He and only He can give one ‘rest’ (Matthew 11:28).

There is a classic example of curse as a result of disrespect of holy places. King Uziah was stuck with leprosy for having stepped temple protocol. In Joshua Achan was hiding expensive materials found in the place over run by the Israelites. Even King Saul was fascinated at the sight of livestock belonging to the enemy. But the Lord said, “Obedience is better than sacrifice”( Samuel 15 King).

The Israelites bumped upon a well of bitter water in the desert (Exodus 15). King Belshazzer was stuck with mental tension at the time of holding a grand feast (Daniel 5). There was bloodshed in David’s household (Samuel). During the time of Peter Anania and his wife Sapphira hid a piece of the sale proceeds of their property, which they were not supposed to ( Acts 5). That’s an invitation to God’s wrath.

To keep God as the first priority in life is-

Blessing for Abraham; Safety for Noah; health and freedom for Daniel and his 3 friends; a good way to build up one’s career for Joseph; success for Phrophet Nehemiah; peace even with enemy for Saint Paul

So why would a man betray God who has so much in store for man ? (Jeremiah 29:11)

Who is God??

The foundation of the earth (Hebrews 1:10)

God is big and powerful while man is tiny and helpless. How much time do you dedicate for God?

Before one’s mortal body comes to an end one must acknowledge the indispensability of God and be able to say, ‘Thy word is a lamp unto my feet’ (Ps 119:105)

There are three kinds of people:-

(i)                  Those who say ‘I’ before being born again;

(ii)                Those who say ‘I’ even after ; and

(iii)               Those who say ‘Christ’ after being born again

For the last category, there is a promise: Blessed is everyone that feareth the Lord; that walketh in his ways (Psalms 128:1)

Thereafter praise continued with –

‘I love You Lord’ (Primary); Prince of Pease (Junior)

The graduates are given the honor of addressing the congregation to same something about their experience or expectations.

Response-I

Ms Bliss Ningnem requested the Church to pray for her in her endeavors to stick to God amid the racist taunts and all the trials and tribulations in life ahead of her.

And praise resumed with-

Here I am to Worship (Ms Chingthianhoih); Jesus loves me this I know (Ms Manhoihching)

Response-II

Mr Lianthiansiam gave thanks to SS teachers for all the things they do for him. He enjoyed classes on tonic solfa and was excited to be in BYF.

Praise continued with-

This is my desire-musical (Primary); Ka Hinna Aw Toupa Phat in- Praise The Lord My Life (Ankang Band);

Response-III

Ms Nemthianmoi said that she’d miss SS, the teachers and their creativity. She was moved by Superintendant’s line that there are good marks, bad marks and failures which are not as important as keeping the lessons learnt therein in life.

Praise continued with-

10000 Reasons (Intermediate); Halleluijah (Sangi, Julie and Biaksang)

Response-IV

Mr Liansangmuan thanked the teachers for all that they taught and wished that God would reward them many fold and the ability to continue the service. He asked the Church to pray for him.

Praise continued with-

Medley (Senior); and Above All (Ms Sarah)

Response-V

Mr K. Lalthang expressed his amazement over speed with which time passes, thanked the teachers and Pastor and requested he be remembered in prayer as he strives to become a journalist.

Praise continued with-

Thildang Tampi te Sang Hong It zaw I Toupan (Sangi and her baby sister); and All Around Me (Muanching).

Response-VI

Ms Niangthianching spent a little time and learnt a lot in Delhi, thanked her teachers at home and in Delhi and made a prayer request for her future.

Praise continued with-

I Believe (Sangkim & Ngaimuan)

Due to paucity of time, prize distribution was postponed for the next Sunday.

In giving Vote of Thanks, Sianmang acclaimed the contributions of –(i) Richard Khuptong for having sponsored and designed the banners and brochures for the occasion; (ii) Padded Cell for generously lending musical instruments; and Muanlal and Paulalsiam for playing the music for the praise and worship.  On his request the Superintendant, L/Upa Thangson presented a memento to the main speaker Mr. Lianding Guite.

The worshippers were blessed with benediction from Upa Chinsum.

By: Lianpu Tonsing
Media Team

http://ebccdelhi.org/activities/latest-news/425-bcd-graduation-day-2013.html

Mission Sunday 3 Nov, 2013

Time: 11 AM

Venue: EBCC Delhi Church, Nasirpur

Save some by snatching them from the fire. Fearing God, have mercy on some, hating even the clothing contaminated by their sinful urges.

Jude 1:23

Chairman of the Tualsung Baptist Missions Committee N. Vumsuan delivered a welcome address.

Rev Khamkholun, Director (Missions) EBCC Headquarters, had addressed the gathering of all the departments of the two EBCC churches of Delhi on the occasion of the first joint Mission Motivational Meet on Saturday the 2^ndNovember, 2013 at EBCC Delhi Church, Nasirpur.

When he stood in the pulpit on Sunday morning, he turned to the word of God as written in Saint John 4:35 –Don’t you have a saying, ‘Four more months and then it’s time for harvest’? Look, I tell you: open your eyes and notice that the fields are already ripe for the harvest; and to Saint Matthew 9:37-38 that says, “Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth laborers into his harvest.

As the director’s stay in Delhi coincides with the Mission Sunday observed on the first Sunday of every year throughout the various Churches of EBCC, he had planned to make use of the occation to best serve EBC's commitment and the duties of each Church toward the saving work as commissioned by the Bible.

Due to the broad based commitment of EBCC, even the assurance given to the FMPB mission in Batala had not been fully fulfilled till date. The shanties wherein missionaries and local converts hold worship services need up gradation, a number of ongoing construction works and land acquisition projects has to be completed with a bit of fund injected into the system.

Still photos showing the various missionary fields and the people there reminded the congregation of the achievements and tasks lying ahead of the Church hundred years after its establishment. The gospel has been taken to Karbi Anglong, Dhemaji, Tejpur and other administrative regions in the state of Assam. In West Bengal the gospel has been established in Bhutabari which is located at a walking distance from Bagdogra Airport. In Nepal, the word of God is making headways under the auspices of the second generation local workers. Remittance from Nepalese Diaspora pouring in, the mission is on the lookout for land for construction of building.  Manipur Mission has 35 workers with 22 Churches/fellowships. During the recent time Paite Veng, Imphal alongwith Nambol and Thoubal districts emerged as hotspots of the remarkable gospel movement in the state.

Himself a cruel duel amid the culture of streets fights of the late 1960s and early 70s, Khamkholun has advocated the case for aggressive approach to save the lost soul. He referred to Jude 1:23 stressing the urgency to save some by snatching them from the fire. Taking cue from Matthew 21:43 the Director warned that in the event of inaction or passive response, the privilege and commission entitled to a Christian in the Kingdom of God is liable to be forfeited.  A Christian has a responsibility of rescuing those who are being taken captive to death and to hold them back (Proverbs 24:11). Among the various modes of rendering missionary work, giving of offers is according to the reverend, the easiest way. It’s not quite as tortuous as sweating it out in prayer or braving the not-so-friendly strange authorities, insects, topography, climate and language to spread the gospel. It’s one thing to pool up about 4,30,000 INR through tithes (3,73,790), Faith Money (41,240), Mission Sunday Offering (12,560) and others from the ladies and fasting teams, but battling it out in prayer or literally living up to the commission is something else.

Blessing through benediction was administered by Upa H. Kamsuanthang.

http://ebccdelhi.org/activities/pastors-blog/420-missions-sunday-2013.html

Sunday Worship Service 10.11.2013

Time: 11.00 hours

Venue: EBC Church Delhi, Nasirpur

Worship in Hymn:

1.         Aw Don Zel Ni Bethlehem Tang

2.         Mial in Lei a Tuam Lai in

3.         Khovel Thukhen

4.         Mangpianni Lenmual

5.         Toupa Hon Pii Dan

6.         Aw Jesu Tui Hing Lui Nahi

7.         Tung Thangvan Gamnuam Ah

The worship in offering was dedicated to God by Upa Thianzakham. Pastor Nenglian then took the stand to thank God for the birthdays, anniversaries, other success stories and pray for the challenges ahead of the Church and its members.

Brother Samson Peter from the India Sunday School Union spoke at length about the Union and upcoming schedules in its endeavor to bring about a holistic and harmonious growth and development of persons, facilitating them to make Christian responses to life, to become active participants in the Church and in human history, and to extend God’s rule in human society.

The youth wing of the Church sang praise as a part of rehearsal, of the all time favourite John Newton’s masterpiece, “Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound” which earned them INR 200,000 later in the day being in the second position of the competition organized by the Tangkhul Christian Charitable Society, Delhi.

The pastor talked about ‘The Bond Between Believers and the World” on the basis of the scripture 1 John 2:15-17 which states in NIV Bible thus- 

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

He highlighted the changing trends in the history of humanity. First man was steep in certain beliefs, then the craze for empirical evidence to confirm genuineness of one’s faith had reigned. In the post-modern period we experience something like ‘nothingness’ where there is no absolute right. No one- parents, leaders, teachers, etc. seem to hold supreme authority. In such situation which is experiencing the literal perishing of matters of the world, the relevance of the role of believers as ‘light of the world’ holds an unprecedented prominence as stated in Matthew 5:14. The monastic life as a more or less accepted conduct of the 15^th century had long been redundant. The Bible uses the analogy of ‘salt’ as a Christian’s role in the society. In fact even as salt dissolves in water, its saline effect is homogeneous and active throughout the water. In the same way the presence of a Christian is not necessarily visible. But the impact thereof is potent and highly active. On the other hand to love the world is to subscribe to its ways.

The faithful are being extended the honor of making contribution towards the ongoing construction of the Gospel Centenary Hall in Lamka, in the coming Sunday Worship Service.

Then the congregation rose to the hymn, ‘Pathian in Hon Itna a Lamdang Mah Mah’ and thereafter proceeded to the tea stand with the blessings of Upa Thiankhanmuan.

Welcoming Ceremony in Honour of Campers and Resource Persons

EBCC Delhi The 29^th September, 2013

Time: 11.00 AM

Worship in hymns began with ‘Hon Suakta Sak’ - He Liberated Me. That was followed with ‘Ka Nunna in Toupa Ngai In’ – My Soul Yearns for You; and ‘Kris Sisan Pha’ - The Precious Blood of Christ and Mass Prayer. Side by side the Ushers facilitated worship in offering which was formally dedicated to the Lord by Upa Kaithang.

Report on the Discipleship Training Camp

The discipleship training camp organized from 26 to 28 September, 2013 was successfully completed. Against the target of 120 campers about 280 campers of varied age groups – from 3 months old to 70 years old participated and got a fresh lease of life through the lively interactions and 8 valuable sermons. The contribution of Child Evangelist Ms Esther during the camp was particularly effective. After thanking all for their contribution, Pastor Nenglian called upon Kimte to share her response to the camp.

Camper Response

To a born again Christian like Kimte, the term, ‘Discipleship Camp’ itself sounds prima facie interesting. She highlighted the extent of connect created by the speakers with the campers who were made to relish lively and delectable sermons about-

(i)            The fact that man, zealously engineered by God has fallen in sin due to desire;

(ii)          Tribulation presented in a logical way, which is not entirely frightening;

(iii)         The origin of sin and the need to be cautious against hollow and deceptive philosophy;

(iv)         Deconstruction of sin and the possible ways of murdering and other vices;

(v)           Redemption from sin and the indispensability of Jesus;

(vi)         Repentance the need of which does not discount the sin of the prodigal son’s brother- displeasure over his father’s reaction on his younger brother’s return;

(vii)        Wages of sin which eventually comes to the sinner. The need to focus one’s attention on life and not on sin; and

(viii)       Back-sliding and the heavy penalties attached with it compared with the price paid on being a disciple

The sermons were not only logical, but were a presentation of absolute truth. The camper has decided that any time she realizes that she has strayed from the path of God, she would take a U-Turn at the first crossing ahead.

Introduction of Resource Persons

The Pastor introduced the two main speakers during the camp- (i) Rev. K. Kamchinkhup, MS, Director of Ministries, EBCC; and (ii) Rev Gin Malsawm, MA, M.Th, Divisional Superintendant, Imphal, EBCC. Occupying the pulpit in turns the two comrades engaged in banters and lighten the mood of the gathering.

Rev. K. Kamchinkhup equated the tottering state of society and spiritual life of Lamka to the physical condition of Jerusalem during the time of Anani. The fight against immorality had started from the Bijang and Rengkai side of the town, which seemed to sweep evils to the heart of Lamka. The response of ladies folk in prayers and deeds had succeeded in suppression of bootlegging in Damkam Bazar. More prayers are needed, he said.

Applauding the Nehemiah Project he reminded the Church members that the youth at home look upon Delhi for inspiration. He was programmed to deliver a full sermon in EBCC Central Delhi later in the day.

God’s Way, Not Man’s

Rev. Gin Malsawm captivated the attention of the worshippers with the story of Israelites who were taken from Egypt towards Canaan through a circuitous road. Instead of marching through the land of Philistines, they took a winding road where they had to witness the miracle of parting red sea and spend 40 years in the desert. God was with them as cloud by day and as fire by night. The fastest way of achieving success is not necessarily God’s way. Even Martha felt that Jesus should have come right over when his brother died.

There were some things in the long and circuitous route.

The Israelites faced the Red Sea. From behind them the highly incensed battalion of Egyptian soldiers was chasing. At the time there was tension and panic of extreme proportions Moses gave a controversial order: ‘Stand firm’. Sometimes life of a Christian appears like a joke. And upon the stretching of Moses’ hand the sea was divided leaving a patch of dry land in between. So does the pains and tensions a Christian bears on behalf of God eventually have an exit. However, that was not end of the journey.

On the other side of the Red Sea stretched a dry land hounded by bitter water and poisonous snakes. And that’s the will of God!.

Apostle Paul was given an enormous task and a defective eye sight. He wanted his shortcoming removed. But God replied, “My Grace is sufficient for you”. Ridiculous by worldly standards!

Malsawm, who almost lost his adoring son to a strange ailment, drove home the point that the stories of the Israelites and Apostle Paul are relevant to the contemporary Church members. God wants them to live through the deserts, the marrahs, the serpents and the short-sightedness of the Government and society in Manipur. That is simply a process of hardening in preparation for the huge responsibilities to be handled in the Canaan of life.

Obedience, poise and opening up one’s heart to the commands of God at the time of confusion are vital for earning the respect and admiration of others.

Announcement

When the Pastor is back to the Lectern, he announced the upcoming wedding ceremony of Wilson T. Goulal s/o Chingzalun and Naobi at 4 PM, the 5^thOctober in the Church; and the planned observance of the following day as Worship Sunday. Then he introduced guests and a just married couple.

Then the Worship Team led the hymn, ‘Tul Ngei Lou’ – Joy Forever

Thereafter the worshippers merrily dispersed with the blessings of Upa Kamsuanthang in Benediction.

 By- Lianpu Tonsing

Medai Team

http://ebccdelhi.org/activities/latest-news/408-welcoming-ceremony.html

Sunday Worship 22.09.2013

Pastor V. Nenglian dedicated the service with a special appeal to God to open up the hearts of the parishioners and the sick and bed ridden to be able to receive salvation in body and mind.Biakna Late Number 170, titled ‘Ka Hinna Nang Kon Pia Hi’ reminded the disciples of the Life and the number of blessed years gifted by God.  Two more hymns, ‘Ngaklah tak in Aw Ka en’ and ‘Toupa Nasiam sa lei Mihing te’ followed in succession.

Depending on the level of devotion and hunger for Christ, the worshippers were allowed a brief moment of communiqué with God.

‘Esau Silhpuan’ the outburst of emotion over the undeserved righteousness, is one of the most inspiring gospels in the contemporary Christian life. Even as the worshippers poured out their hearts to God with the music, the offering bowl was brought in. Upa Chinsum executed the ceremonious handing over of the offering.

Point-wise resolutions arrived at during the Tualsung Baptist Saptuam Upa Committee (TBSUC) Meeting held on 15 September, 2013 was heard from Upa Kamsuan, Secretary:-

(i)                 Election of Baptist Youth Fellowship Committee for 2014 scheduled on October 20, 2013

(ii)               Election of TBSUC for 2014 scheduled on Novermber 17, 2013

(iii)             Election of Tualsung Baptist Missions Committee and Dorcas Committee for 2014 scheduled on November 24, 2013

(iv)        Appointment of Upa G. Khamgoupau as Convenor and Upa Chinsum, Local Upa Khamchin Naulak and Local Upa Songzalian as members of the Committee for the upcoming Christmas and New Year Celebrations.

(v)        The planned closure of all department accounts pertaining to the current year by the 31^st of December, 2013 and report by the 20^th of January, 2014. Local Upa Thangkhosiam as Chief Auditor; and Piangrouding Ngaihte, Goukhangin, Thangson and Lam Benson as Auditors.

(vi)            The planned participation in the North-East Choral Competition to be conducted by the Tangkhul Christian Charitable Trust. Upa G. Khamkhanpau would be the Music Incharge.

(vii)          The birth of a child from Mrs and Mr Pauzakham of Moonlight Ministry have been felicitated with 5000 INR.

(viii)          Award of Penalty is basically aimed at purification and amending of the Church members, which is part of witnessing ministry amongst us mortals, not an act to condemn or discriminate. The following three cases have come up for consideration:-

(a)   Ginsuanmung, s/o M. Ginzalian of Pearsonmun, who eloped with Ms Mercy Lalremruati since September 5, 2013

(b)   V. Langsong s/o V. Thongkhothang, who eloped with Nengneithem since August 4, 2013

(c)    Chingbiaksang who eloped with Aditya Sarin, a non-believer since September 3, 2013.

Through the pastoral prayer followed by public approval as token of having witnessed and being in agreement with the same, the official award of penalty was formalized.

Praise resumed with ‘Who Am I’ through Olivia and Mung after which the Pastor puts a question mark on the significance of ‘Repentance’ in Salvation.

Biblical Repentance

¹ Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,

² Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.

³ And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;

⁴ As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.

                                                                                                            Luke Chapter 3

As part of the subject of Salvation (http://ebccdelhi.org/activities/latest-news/404-holy-communion-service--september-15-2013.html), the Pastor treated the issue of Repentance as a different topic altogether,  drawing from the Luke 3:1-14.

It’s common knowledge in Christian society that ‘we are baptized in Christ’s death’. But the crucial question is ‘how?’. If one feels sorry about the sin that inheres in, and manifests through him, that is not simply enough. A change in life comes only through a change at heart.

The prodigal son asked for his share of the property, ran away, spent on friends and pleasures. And when all is gone, he fed pigs. And then he resolved a resolution to be ready to become one of his father’s servants. And then he repented. That’s the Biblical Repentance which is not about reformation, but about transformation and regeneration.

The Vice of Non-Repentance

In the parable of the Matthew Chapter 21 the master told his sons to work in his vineyard. One of the sons refused but repented and eventually went to work nevertheless while the other agreed but did not go to work. In the case of Judas Iscariot, he repented having sold Jesus but he didn’t go back to Jesus. Ultimately he had to commit suicide. Similarly many of us turn from sin, but all those who turned from sin do not necessarily turn to God. That’s where the tragedy lies.

When Jesus kicks off His ministry he said ‘repent’ (Matthew 4:17). And when He sent disciples He told them to “ask people to repent” (Mark 6:24) which is the key to escape peril.

This is an issue of debate among Christian scholars. A rebirth sans repentance is not enough. Without repentance a man is likely to bring in his ego and cause so much of consternation in the Church and the Christian community.

Repentance, the Key to Salvation

We can safely say that being born again was earlier conceived of as ‘change in ownership’ while it is actually freedom from bondage. And there is bound to be no looking back. You have a new set of pre-occupations and matters over which you take delight in. The author of Psalms has appropriately outlined the reward of repentance, ‘..but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,  and who meditates on His law day and night’.  That is the message of John the Baptist as may be drawn from St Luke chapter 3 and Mark 1:4, ‘the baptism of repentance’, the ultimate pre-condition for attainment of salvation.

During the days of Herod, Antipas (4 BC to 39 AD) of Galilee, a client state of the Roman Empire which coincided with the days of Anna and Caiaphus in the Jewish society, word came to John the Baptist for repentance of all. Inspite of having performed baptism to numerous people, John was on record saying, “I baptized with water, but the One who comes after me will baptize in Holy Spirit”. Thus there is an undertone that points to the fact that the baptism of repentance the likes of which are administered by John the Baptist, should not be a new birth in the full sense of the term, only paving the way for the ultimate baptism to be given by Jesus Christ. The tradition in the contemporary Churches like EBCC might not follow the exact sequence, but the meaning is clear and unambiguous; the requirement of complete denunciation of pride and prejudice due to ancestry and other worldly virtues as a pre-condition for obtaining baptism by the Holy Spirit.

Changed Perspective and Complete Safety

After such repentance/baptism, a man who has anything- clothes, food, etc is advised to share to the one who has not, a revenue collector not to collect more than what is due, a soldier to abjure from violence and false accusation and be content with his pay.

As a consequence of complete disintegration of the mind, a person naturally turns to his/her master in every situations and circumstances. In other words, even at the moment of your loneliness and frustration you’ll not end up in a rope, because you have the Cross to turn to. Therein lies the value of repentance. For the scripture says that there would be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance (Luke 15:7).

Conclusion

One may be clear about forgiveness, but unless the Biblical Repentance is missing, one is bound to be lonely, frustrated and is liable to end up in extreme steps like jumping or hanging.

The sermon was followed by announcements about (i) test exams last conducted; (ii) discipleship training camp to be held from the 26^th September, 2013 onwards; and (iii) introduction of first timers.

Then the congregation rose to the last hymn, ‘Toupa Na siamsa Lei Mihing te’ a musical entreaty to re-herd the scattered believers.

Thereafter the worshippers were blessed by Upa Damsawmthang.

COINAGE IN INDIA

During the period of transition from the British rule, India retained the currency and coinage of the pre 1947 period. It’s not until the 15^th August, 1950 that the country brought out its distinctive coins. The right and responsibility for coinage vests with the Government of India in terms of the Coinage Act, 1906 as amended from time to time. Thus the designing and minting of coins in various denominations is also the responsibility of the Government of India. Security Printing & Minting Corporation of India Ltd. (SPMCIL), a Miniratna Category-I, Schedule-‘A’ Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE), established on 13th January, 2006 manages four India Government Mints at Mumbai, Alipore (Kolkata), Saifabad (Hyderabad), Cherlapally (Hyderabad) and NOIDA (UP). During the year 2011-12 a total of 6282 million pieces of coins (mpcs) were produced,. The Coin production per employee per year has increased to 1.69 mpcs in 2011-12 as against 1.57 mpcs in the previous year.[1]

Evolution of Coins

Coins in circulation of Rs 5, 2, 1 and the 50 paise are the result of a process of evolution from the Frozen Series of one rupee being counted in 192 pices; to the Anna Series where rupee was considered to have consisted of 16 annas; the decimal series with one rupee being divided into 100 paises; until cost benefit considerations led to the gradual discontinuance of 1, 2 and 3 paise coins in the seventies.[2] From June 30, 2011 onwards, the coins of the denomination of 25 paise and below ceased to be a legal tender.[3] Therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by Sub Section 15 A of the Coinage Act, 1906, the Central Government decided to call in from circulation the coins of the denomination of 25 paise and below. As a result, a total of 263597333 coins, which includes 15998555 coins from Andhra Pradesh have been received.[4]

Coinization of Rupees Ten

On 24 July, 2007, the Government issued a notification in respect of coinization of rupees ten and thereafter coins of rupees 10 were put into circulation with effect from March 2009. Depending upon the capacity of the Mints to supply the required quantity of coins, RBI plans to gradually replace the rupees ten notes with coins in the country.[5]

Distribution of Coins

Coins are received from the Mints and issued into circulation through the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Regional Issue offices/sub-offices and a wide network of currency chests and coin depots maintained by banks and Government treasuries spread across the country. The RBI Issue Offices/sub-offices are located at Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Belapur (Navi Mumbai), Bhopal, Bhubaneshwar, Chandigarh, Chennai, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jammu, Jaipur, Kanpur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, New Delhi, Patna and Thiruvananthapuram. These offices issue coins to the public directly through their counters and also send coin remittances to the currency chests and small coin depots.[6]

The coins are issued for circulation only through RBI. The denomination-wise quantity of coins issued by the RBI to each regional branch during the year 2011-12 (April - October 2011) is given below:

Regional Branch	Denomination				(All pieces	in millions)
Office		1		2	5			1O	Total
Office	Allocation	Supply	Allocation	Supply	Allocation	Supply	Allocation	Supply	Allocation	Supply
Ahmedabad	125	46.25	250	160	60	42.25	30	30.4	465	278.9
Bangalore	150	98.25	350	157.71	60	19.25	25	17.6	585	292.81
Belapur	50	20.38	100	21	30	5.5	50	14.7	230	61.58
Bhopal	50	14.75	80	35.25	40	6.75	30	16	200	72.75
Bhubaneswar	50	20.62	100	16.68	20	9.25	20	7.76	190	54.31
Chandigarh	100	32.51	190	70	50	5	40	15	380	122.51
Chennai	100	70.95	200	92.05	50	32.75	50	32	400	227.75
Guwahati	40	15.5	30	24.25	10	7.75	20	1.7	100	49.2
Hyderabad	150	111.79	260	174.19	50	24.85	50	26.63	510	337.46
Jaipur	75	22.5	75	75	30	0	20	6	200	103.5
Jammu	20	15	20	22.5	15	2.5	20	8	75	48
Kanpur	75	30	70	72.5	30	7.5	50	20	225	130
Kolkata	140	172.47	300	254.01	90	65.45	50	19.69	580	511.62
Lucknow	50	22.5	70	30	10	6.5	20	6	150	65
Mumbai	150	128.25	300	188.46	120	83.33	100	41.8	670	441.84
Nagpur	70	18.88	75	73.75	30	16.87	25	16	200	125.5
New Delhi	125	98.08	300	241.95	60	5.7	40	23.34	525	369.07
Patna	40	9.79	60	25.9	25	10.92	30	5.28	155	51.89
Thiruvananthpuram	40	26	70	44.15	20	14	30	8	160	92.15
	1600	974.46	2900	1779.35	800	366.12	700	315.9	6000	3435.83

[7]http://164.100.47.132/Annexture/lsq15/9/au1894.htm  1894/ 2.12.2011

There are 4422 currency chest branches and 3784 small coin depots spread throughout the country. The currency chests and small coin depots distribute coins to the public, customers and other bank branches in their area of operation. Bulk users viz. retailers, trade bodies, associations, Chambers of Commerce etc. obtain coins after producing proof of their identity. [8]

Measures to improve the supply of coins

• The various Mints in the country have been modernized and upgraded to enhance their production capacities.
• Government has in the recent past, imported coins to augment the indigenous production.
• Notes in denomination of Rs.5 have been reintroduced to supplement the supply of coins.

New initiatives for distribution

• Coin Dispensing Machines have been installed at select Regional Offices of the Reserve Bank on pilot basis.
• Dedicated Single-window counters have been opened in several of the Reserve Bank's offices for issuing coins of different denominations packed in pouches.
• Mobile counters are being organised by the Reserve Bank in commercial and other important areas of the town where soiled notes can be exchanged for coins.

Appeal to the Public

The Bank, with active co-operation from various agencies, has been endeavoring to distribute the coins in an equitable manner to all parts of the country. Success of the mission calls for the unstinting support from the people at large and the various voluntary agencies. The Government from time to time requests members of public to avoid holding on to coins and instead, use them freely for transactions to ensure that there is a smooth circulation of coins.[9]

Non-acceptance of 50 paisa coins

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has received three complaints regarding non acceptance of 50 paisa coins. These are from general public alleging that 50 paisa coins are not being accepted. Complainants were advised that 50 paisa coins continue to be legal tender. The new series coins have been introduced with ` symbol and with new security features at the edge which shall facilitate easy recognition. Moreover, the edge security features shall help in avoiding crude counterfeiting of coins.[10] In terms of Section 6(1) (b) of Indian Coinage Act 2011, 50 paisa coins are legal tender up to rupees 10 in each transaction.[11] 

Distribution through Commercial Banks

The Monetary Policy Statement 2012-13 has inter alia stated that banks are expected to strengthen their distribution systems and procedures so as to cater to the growing needs of the common man. RBI has informed that shifting of these functions to the commercial banks will be effected in a calculated and calibrated manner; and only on finding evidence of suitable performance of cash related retail activities by the banks, would RBI consider exiting from retail function. Besides, while RBI will gradually withdraw from the retail function, it will continue to manage the distribution of banknotes and coins through the currency chests and bank branches. The manpower resources which will be freed as a result of exiting from the retail function will be redeployed more gainfully for effective supervision of the services rendered by commercial banks to the public.[12]

Melting of Coins and Supply Shortage

Chronologically, the main considerations influencing the coinage policy of Republic India over time have been:

·         The incorporation of symbols of sovereignty and indigenous motifs on independence;

·         Coinage Reforms with the introduction of the metric system;

·         The need felt from time to time to obviate the possibility of the metallic value of coins rising beyond the face value;

·         The cost-benefit of coinisation of currency notes

With the obvious reasons of rise in prices of goods, melting of coins by unscrupulous elements reportedly took place for making artificial jewellery etc. There have also been reports from local dailies of Bengaluru, Thiruvananthapuram and Jaipur regarding black marketing/melting of coins for manufacturing blades, artificial jewellery, bullets etc. RBI has sensitized their regional offices to take up such matters with civil/Police authorities in their region at various fora, including State Level Security Committee.[13] Also in response to complaints regarding trading/black marketing of coins taking place at Rajkot, Mumbai and New Delhi during the year 2012-13, RBI has taken up the complaints with police authorities at appropriate level. Since the trading of coins may be due to perceived shortage of coins, RBI has also taken the following steps to address the problem:

i)          More remittances of coins were sent to the Currency Chests (CCs) in the areas where shortage of coins was reported.

ii)          Shopkeepers and other business establishments, tollgate agencies, etc. have been attached to the nearest CCs for their requirements of coins.

iii)         The banks have been encouraged to install Coin Vending Machines (CVMs) for issue of coins by providing them capital subsidy.

iv)         The banks have been advised to organize coin melas for issue of coins to members of public.

v)         Issue Offices have been advised to keep minimum balances in their vaults and in CCs to ensure availability of coins to bank branches / members of public.

vi)         A higher indent for coins in all the denominations has been placed with the Government of India.[14]

Issue of Commemorative Coins

Apart from issuing regular coins the Government issues commemorative coins from time to time. Details of such coins issued during the recent time are:

Year 2007
1.         Golden Jubilee Celebration of Khadi & Village Industries Commission.
2.         150tfl Anniversary of Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak.
3.         Platinum Jubilee celebration of Indian Air Force.
Year 2008
1.         150m Anniversary of First War of Independence.
2.         Birth Centenary of Shahid Bhagat Singh.
3.         Ter-centenary of Gur-ta-Gaddi of Shri Guru Granth Sahibji.
Year 2009
1.         200lh Birth Anniversary of `Louis Braille`.
2.         Birth Centenary of Saint Alphonsa.
3.         Birth Centenary of Perarinqnar Anna.
4.         Birth Centenary of Dr. Homi Bhabha.
5.         60 Years of Commonwealth Day.
Year-2010
1.         125th Javanthi of Dr. Rajendra Prasad. [15]

Year-2011

1.             100 years of Civil Aviation in India.

2.             100 years of Indian Council of Medical Research.

3.             150th Anniversary of Comptroller and Auditor Generalof India.

4.            150th birth Anniversary of Madan Mohan Malvaiya.[16]

Year-2012

1.         60 Years of Parliament of India 13.05.2012

2.         150th Birth Anniversary of Pandit Moti Lal Nahru 25.09.2012

3.         150th Year of Kuka Movement 05.10.2012

4.         150th Birth Anniversary of Mahamana Madan Mohan Malaviya 25.12.2012

5.         Silver Jubilee of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board 31.01.2013[17]

References

1.     http:www.org.in/currency

2.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  1599 dated 16.08.2011

3.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  337 dated 23.11.2012

4.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  1894 dated 02.12.2011

5.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  2888 dated 29.08.2012

6.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  4318 dated 22.08.2013

7.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  1991 dated 02.12.2011

8.     Reply to Lok Sabha SQ No.   450 dated 26.04.2013

9.     Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  3986 dated 05.09.2012

10.  Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  6007 dated 03.05.2013

11.  Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  2512 dated 12.03.2010

12.  Annual Report Ministry of Finance Government of India 2011-12

13.  Annual Report Ministry of Finance Government of India 2012-13

---

[1] Annual Report Ministry of Finance Government of India 2012-13

[2] http://www.rbi.org.in/currency/museum/c-rep.html

[3] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No. 1599 dated 16.08.2011

[4] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No. 2988 dated 30.03.2012

[5] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No. 337 dated 23.11.2012

[6] http://www.rbi.org.in/currency/museum/c-rep.html

[7] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No. 1894 dated 02.12.2011

[8] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  2888 dated 29.08.2012

[9]  http://www.rbi.org.in/currency/coins.html

[10]  Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.   4318 dated 22.03.2013.

[11] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  1991 dated 02.12.2011

[12] Reply to Lok Sabha SQ No. 450 dated 26.04.2013

[13] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  3986 dated 05.09.2012

[14] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  6007 dated 03.05.2013

[15] Reply to Lok Sabha USQ No.  2512 dated 12.03.2010

[16] Annual Report Ministry of Finance Government of India 2011-12

[17] Annual Report Ministry of Finance Government of India 2012-13