INITIATIVES FOR CHURCH FORMATION

Prior to the establishment of the Pentecostal Church in S. Chawngtui, revivalists who could not find accommodation within the Baptist Church began gathering independently as a group known as 'Pa Pawl' (Father's Fellowship). From this group, the foundation for the Pentecostal Church began to form.

Those who separated from the Baptist Church officially established the UPC on August 21, 1954. The founding members included Pu Saichhunga and his wife, Pu Zathiauva (a primary school teacher) and his wife, Pu Zachhinga and his wife, Pu Hranghrima (father of Elder Dr. H. Lalruata), and Pu Lengbilha. Following its establishment, prominent community figures joined the UPC, bringing total membership to nearly 100 within its inaugural year. By October 2021, membership grew to over 300. The initial leaders of the church were:

• Chairman : Zathiauva
• Secretary : Dingluaia

Other leaders prior to 1987 are not listed due to unavailable historical records.

ACQUISITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF THE CHURCH BUILDING

S. Chawngtui Local has constructed three church buildings in its history, and initial construction for a fourth building began in 2021.

The first church building was located at the site of the present Forest Department Quarters, with its foundation stone laid by Rev. Zakamlova. Services were held at this location until the political insurgency. During the insurgency, S. Chawngtui village was grouped and relocated to Hnahthial. Upon returning to S. Chawngtui, a second church building was erected near the current open ground. Due to space constraints, the congregation later moved to the present church location. Construction of the third church structure began in 2001 when Sr. Elder Hrangawia laid the foundation stone, and it was inaugurated in 2010. Subsequently, on June 7, 2021, District Pastor K. Lalnunpuia laid the foundation stone for the fourth church building (72 feet in length and 36 feet in width), designed with a hall underneath. By October 2021, the concrete slab over the lower hall was completed, and structural columns were erected.

NOTABLE EVENTS IN THE CHURCH

Historically, S. Chawngtui Local was known as the 'City of Revivalists' (Mi hlim khawpui), having hosted renowned ministers from across Mizoram within the UPC for extended revival campaigns. Additionally, this local church is the home congregation of Rev. H. Lalruata, a distinguished minister in the UPC of North East India.

PRESENT STATUS

According to the current statistics (2025 Half-Yearly Statistic Report), S. Chawngtui Local comprises 302 members (153 Males, 149 Females).

2025-2026 Church Leaders :

• Chairman : Evan. C. Laldawla
• Secretary : Elder H. Lianchunga
• Treasurer : Elder PC. Roliana
• Statistician : Rbt. Laltawna