Koinonia Patan Church: 35 Years of Faith, Growth, and Community Service
Introduction:
Nestled in the vibrant city of Patan, Nepal, Koinonia Patan Church (KPC) stands tall, celebrating 35 years of spiritual journey since its establishment in 1978. From humble beginnings as a small Bible study group to evolving into a thriving community of believers, KPC has become a beacon of faith, love, and service. This article delves into the rich history, challenges faced, and triumphs achieved by Koinonia Patan Church over the years.
The Genesis:
The roots of Koinonia Patan Church trace back to 1974 when a small Bible Study Group gathered at Mr. Adon Rongong's sitting room in Patan Book House, Mahapal, Lalitpur. Comprising individuals like Mr. Surya Prasad Acharya, Mr. Ram Chandra Timothy, Mr. Lal Bahadur Gauchan, Mr. Prakash Subba, Mr. Sahadev Mahat, and Mr. Mangal Man Maharjan, this group laid the foundation for what would later become KPC. The movement gained momentum, and by 1977, the group had 40 believers regularly attending Bible studies and participating in activities at Nepal Isai Mandali, Gyaneshwor.
Transformation and Growth:
In May 1978, the small group transformed into Koinonia Patan Church in conjunction with Nepal Isai Mandali, Gyaneshwor. Regular Saturday services commenced, and by 1981, the church had 85 baptized members and 65 regular attendees. The church's growth led to the purchase of a piece of land in 1981, where the present church building stands today. Under the guidance of Pastor Robert Karthak and the Elder Deacon board, the responsibilities were prayerfully handed over to Deacon Adon Rongong and Deacon M.S. Rana, leading to KPC becoming an independent church in 1982.
Challenges and Perseverance:
The early 1980s brought challenges as churches in Nepal faced persecution from the government. In August 1983, the Chief District Officer ordered the closure of Patan Church at Mahapal. The fellowship dispersed to different locations, and despite adverse circumstances, the believers continued to grow. The church building's construction began in 1983, with believers contributing jewelry, income, and even their harvest to raise funds. By 1984, the ground floor was completed and dedicated to the Lord.
Leadership and Ordination:
Recognizing the need for a full-time pastor, after prolonged prayer and intercession, Mangal Man Maharjan was ordained as the Pastor in March 1985. The church continued to flourish under his leadership, and in 1986, Mr. Om Prakash Subba was ordained Elder. The church saw further expansion with the ordination of Deacons in 1988 and subsequent years, signifying the deepening of leadership and spiritual development within KPC.
Educational Pursuits and Global Connections:
In 1987, Pastor Mangal Man Maharjan was sent to Seoul, Korea, for further theological studies, during which Mr. Om Prakash Subba carried out the church's responsibilities. Dr. Mangal Man Maharjan returned in 1989, bringing back theological insights to guide the congregation. The church's commitment to education and global connections continued as members pursued higher studies and fostered relationships with international theological institutions.
Constitution and Policy Development:
In 1991, a committee was formed to prepare the Constitution and Policy of the church, led by Mr. Ram Chandra Timothy. The Constitution was finalized in 1992, marking a significant milestone in the church's history. Amendments in 1998 under Mr. Ram Chandra Timothy's leadership facilitated the spreading of the gospel, humanitarian service, spiritual leadership, unity among members, and defined the church's spiritual responsibilities.
Continued Growth and Service:
Koinonia Patan Church has continued to grow over the years, establishing daughter and granddaughter churches. The church's activities are governed by the amended constitution, reflecting its commitment to spiritual principles and community service.
Conclusion:
As Koinonia Patan Church celebrates 35 years, its journey reflects a tapestry woven with faith, dedication, and community service. From a small Bible study group to a vibrant community of believers, KPC stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of faith in the heart of Patan, Nepal. The church's commitment to spiritual growth, education, and community welfare ensures that its legacy continues to impact generations to come.