KalimNews, Darjeeling, December 30, 2024: The United Church of Northern India (UCNI) celebrated the 100th anniversary of its establishment today at St. Columba’s Church in Darjeeling, marking a historic milestone for the church community. Formed on December 30, 1924, at Wilson College in Mumbai, UCNI was created as a union of various churches during the British era. This centenary celebration was observed with events across the country, encompassing all five synods, 18 Church Councils, and over 320 churches, including those under the Eastern Himalayan Church Council (EHCC).
The event was presided over by Rev. T.S. Molommu, Moderator of the EHCC, who is also the Vice President of the United Church of Northern India Trust Association (UCNITA). The celebration was attended by several prominent church leaders, including the Most Rev. E.C. Panlook, Moderator of the General Assembly of UCNI; A.K. Rai, Treasurer of UCNI; and Executive Members Rev. S.T. Lepcha, Rev. J.P. Lepcha, and Rev. Sriraj Rasaily. Stephen Singh, Executive Secretary of the General Assembly of UCNI, and Yohan G. Immanuel, President of the UCNITA, participated virtually.
Among the notable attendees were Elders M.K. Pradhan, Treasurer, and Dr. Norden M. Lepcha, General Secretary of the EHCC, alongside pastors and church members from various EHCC churches in the hills and plains.
The Chief Guest, Most Rev. E.C. Panlook, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing the church’s crucial role in society. He urged those present to extend their resources beyond church activities to include social responsibilities, thereby fostering care for and benefiting the broader community.
The celebration also featured musical performances from the choirs of Macfarlane Memorial Church and St. Columba’s Church, adding to the festive atmosphere. During the event, both Stephen Singh and Yohan G. Immanuel shared congratulatory messages, celebrating the church’s long-standing service and its continued impact on the region.
Treasurer A.K. Rai gave a comprehensive overview of UCNI’s formation and growth, reaffirming that the members and constitution of UCNI, referred to as the “Blue Book,” are the legitimate representatives of its property-holding body, UCNITA. He also provided an update on the church’s ongoing legal matters and its current position in these areas.
The event began with a warm welcome from Rev. Bed Dhimal and was marked by a cake-cutting ceremony to commemorate the centenary. The celebration culminated in a love feast, fostering a sense of community among the attendees.