History of Sethlun Local

Pu Sapchhawna and family moved in from Thingsai, being staunch UPC believers. For a considerable time, they were the sole UPC family there, traveling all the way to attend services at Luangmual Local. Likely because of this, Luangmual Section members held a deep passion and concern for establishing a church in Sethlun. Crusades were organized under the leadership of the Section Pastor, alongside occasional evangelical outreach. However, due to severe spiritual resistance in the field, a church could not be established quickly. As Pu Sapchhawna's family aged, traveling continuously to Luangmual for services became difficult, and they eventually joined the BCM (Baptist Church of Mizoram).

Establishment of the UPC :

As time passed, the year 2018 arrived. Brother Lalrokima Chhangte, a minister from Theiriat Local, worked as a mail carrier distributing letters in Sethlun. During his rounds, he noticed a UPC signboard above a doorway, uncovering a UPC household. Investigating further into the community, he learned that many former UPC members had joined the Baptist Church due to the absence of a UPC fellowship nearby. Burdened with concern, he collaborated with Brother Hnehzova's family—the only residing UPC family attending Zaia Veng Local—and, consulting with Luangmual Section Pastor Rev. B. Kamliana and Theiriat Section Pastor Rev. R. Vanlalenga, made every effort possible. The Section Pastors subsequently reported to the District administration regarding the strong prospect of founding a church.

The District Officials reviewed the situation carefully and, in continuous consultation with both Section Pastors, initiated steps toward establishing Sethlun Local.

Once the date was finalized, on Thursday evening, October 18, 2018, 'Sethlun Local UPC' was officially inaugurated at the residence of Brother R. Lalhnehzova in Sethlun, led by Rev. C. Vanlalena, Lunglei District Secretary. Pending final designation by the District Board, Luangmual Section oversaw it as a caretaker unit. (During the 194th District Board in December 2018, its assignment under Luangmual Section was officially confirmed). That evening, a large delegation led by their Section Pastors attended from Luangmual and Theiriat Sections, joined by several members from Lunglei Ramthar AOC Local, spending a joyful evening together and sharing celebratory tea.

First Leaders :

On the night of inauguration, leaders were immediately appointed. The following were the first appointed church leaders:

On October 25, 2018, under the guidance of Section Pastor Rev. B. Kamliana, additional church ministers and LAD leaders were appointed as follows:

Acquisition of Church Building :

As Sethlun Local did not possess a church building initially, services were held at the residence of Upa R. Lalhnehzova for a considerable period. They accommodated the congregation with great warmth and notable dedication.

It was learned that a property with machine structures belonging to Pu Ricky (Ramthar Veng) located at the outskirts of Sethlun was up for sale. Approaching him carefully, he agreed to sell; however, containing two existing structures and a spacious plot, the price was steep—quoted at twenty lakhs (Rs. 20,00,000/-). Deciding to approach the District administration directly, an application led by Section Pastor Rev. B. Kamliana was submitted to the District Board. During its 194th session, the District Board purchased this cherished property for the church site.

The congregation was filled with immense joy and enthusiasm. Under District guidance and approval, work swiftly commenced to convert the existing building into a house of worship. Just three months after establishment, having a fine church building brought deep gratitude. Enhancing that sanctuary incrementally within available means, it continues to serve as the worship center today.

Adjacent to the main church building stands a quarter acquired by the District in the same purchase, which serves versatile roles as a Sunday School Hall, kitchen, or fellowship room, bringing great warmth and joy to the congregation.

Current Status :

Sethlun Local currently has 46 members (2025 report), with 2 Elders (Upa) and 4 Preachers (Rawngbawltu).