Nagaland: Mother, the influencer

SBCK holds seminar for young mothers

Morung Express News
Kohima | June 6

The Women Department of the Sümi Baptist Church Kohima (SBCK) organised a seminar for young mothers at SBCK on June 6, 2026. Held under the theme ‘Müsukulu Aza’ (Mother, the Influencer), the day-long event drew women from five fellowships, namely AG, PCP, MH, HOP, and HBS.

Speaking to The Morung Express, Kuholi Chishi, Associate Pastor (WD), said that the seminar was organized especially for young mothers, as they play a vital role in shaping the character and future of their children. “By empowering mothers, we are investing in stronger families and healthier communities,” Chishi shared. The pastor described mothers as powerful influencers who have the ability to guide and shape the values, character, and faith of their children. She said the seminar was organized to remind mothers of this enormous responsibility while also providing them with support and encouragement in their parenting journey.

The seminar comprised four main sessions which covered various topics and aspects of motherhood and faith, and included spiritual teaching, practical life skills, health education, and fellowship.

Kashito Aye, Former Associate Pastor, spoke on ‘Mother, the Influencer- Faith formation’. He emphasised that a mother’s daily walk with God shapes a child’s spiritual foundation more than formal instruction. He also urged the participants to model prayer and scripture in everyday life.

Dr Botoholi L Yeptho (Associate Pastor), shared on‘Faith over Fear’. She acknowledged the anxieties mothers face around their own identity, their children’s safety, education, and the future, and called on women to anchor their families in God’s promises. She noted that faith does not remove challenges but provides strength to face them.

Addressing ‘Balancing family and career’, Kahoni Shikhu (Associate Pastor CED) spoke on the importance of prioritizing tasks and core values, delegating responsibilities, and protecting family time.

She stated that balance requires grace and support, not perfection. She also emphasized the need for young mothers to set a positive trend in the family.

Adding a health dimension, Dr Anovili N Chishi (MDS, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon), conducted a session on ‘Oral health and hygiene’. She explained the importance of oral hygiene, and the link between a mother’s oral health and children’s well-being. She also demonstrated proper brushing techniques, and listed early signs of dental problems and how to prevent them. Insights into oral cancer were also shared during the session.

The seminar also included a laughter session, and the sessions ended with a ‘Discussion & Reflection’ segment followed by thanksgiving. The programme concluded with a fellowship meal.
Chishi emphasised the importance of empowering mothers both spiritually and in other aspects of life, noting that a mother's well-being and influence have a far-reaching impact on her children, family, and society as a whole.

She said that mothers play a crucial role in shaping future generations, explaining that the way children are raised affects not only individual families but also communities and society. “A stable mother stabilizes her family, while the opposite can result in a shaky family,” she remarked.

Explaining why the programme specifically targeted young mothers, she noted that they are currently raising the upcoming generation and are therefore at a critical stage in family life. While acknowledging the efforts of older mothers who “did the best they could with what they had,” she stressed the need to invest in younger families who are actively shaping the future.

According to the pastor, young families are often characterized by enthusiasm, energy, and ambition. However, she cautioned that these qualities, if misdirected, can lead families away from Christian values. The seminar was therefore designed to help young mothers strengthen their faith, nurture healthy family relationships, and raise their children with a strong spiritual foundation.

She expressed hope that the initiative would help young mothers positively influence their families and remain grounded in their faith during some of the most formative years of their lives.

Chishi shared that the Women Department would continue initiatives focused on equipping mothers. In line with this, a similar session will be held for the remaining five fellowships under SBCK in the month of August, she informed. A seminar for couples is also in the works, she added.