Theiriat is located within Lunglei town, situated on a high hill to the south. It is the place where early Mizo believers, including those from Pukpui and believers expelled by Chief Dara of Pukpui, gathered and settled. Settlement in Theiriat began on May 20, 1909. These early believers at that time belonged to the Baptist Church, with many claiming to be spiritual people and prophets.

Around 1950, a revival broke out in Theiriat village, giving rise to instances of being overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit and ecstatic spiritual experiences. The leaders and some members of the Baptist Church did not understand this and began to feel uncomfortable with their spiritual manifestations. These Spirit-filled believers could no longer fit into the church, leading to disputes over using the pulpit. The spirit-filled group tried to bring in large and small drums, but the non-revivalists would not allow it, often dragging them out of the church building. Even when leadership at BCM Headquarters advised local church leaders to handle these Spirit-filled believers with open minds, protect their spiritual experiences, and pray for them, the local leaders refused to comply.

Establishment of UPC NEI

As time passed, after completing his ministry in Tarpho in September 1952, Pu Saihnuna visited Theiriat again. The Spirit-filled believers in Theiriat were facing severe suppression. Elder Rochhunga, Senbuanga, and other Spirit-filled believers—whose active ministry roles were suspended by the Baptist Church due to their revival experience—began conducting separate worship services. During this time, they held a deep fondness for the hymn "Ka buaina ram thlalerah hian" (In this desert land of my trouble), which closely resonated with their situation. Pu Saihnuna bade them farewell saying, "Those who wish to join the UPC should come and report at the District Conference held in Vanlaiphai Leilet." Subsequently, Elder Rochhunga and others attended the District Conference at Vanlaiphai Leilet in October 1952. From around September 1952, they separated from the Baptist Church and formed their own group. Key figures among them during this period included:

1. Pu C. Rochana
2. Pu S. Kawlbenga
3. Pu P. Rochhunga
4. Pu K. Rohranga
5. Pu C. Chalnghaka

These Spirit-filled believers gathered for worship at the houses of Pu P. Rochhunga, Pu Rohanga, and Pu S. Lalrema. Those who opposed the revival frequently disturbed and spoke against them. During this period, they were commonly called 'Pa Pawl' before formally adopting the UPC name.

In 1953, Pu Saihnuna visited Theiriat again and explained clearly that the church's official name was UPC. There were around 30 members. Since entire families had not converted to UPC and many came individually from divided households, their numbers were modest. Thus, UPC NEI was formally established in Theiriat on October 4, 1953. Pu Saihnuna appointed leaders for the local church as follows:

Elders:

1. S. Lalrema, Head Deacon & Secretary
2. Rochhunga
3. Hranghnuaia

Members:

1. Rochana
2. Kawlbenga
3. C. Chalnghaka
4. Rohanga
5. Paduma
6. Senbuanga
7. Saikaia
8. Bawlpuia
9. Liankhuma

After being formally established as a full church, Pu Lalringa, Pu Kaptlaia, and Pu Satzauva also joined. During this time, they did not yet maintain minute books; business meetings were announced during services, and decisions were made among the men. Their decisions were kept in mind and acted upon accordingly. Amidst contempt, mockery, insult, and scoffing, those standing for the name of the Lord Jesus walked courageously forward for the Lord and His Church. After Rev. H. Chalchhunga became the pastor in charge of the town district, he formally organized the church on April 25, 1971, as follows:

Elders:

1. Rohnuna
2. S. Biakkima
3. Rochhunga
4. Lianbuka

Committee Members:

1. Tlangthanga
2. Lalrema
3. Biakchhunga

Office Bearers:

By around 1971, church membership reached approximately 100 members. Elections were held annually during this period. Pu C. Vannghaka donated land near Theiriat Dawrzawl, where a church building was constructed.

From around 1972 onwards, all church departments—PYD, LAD, Sunday School, Missions Department, and PCD—were established. The church grew steadily in various aspects. On June 1, 1990, Theiriat District was formed separately from the Headquarters District. Theiriat became the District Center housing the Pastor's Quarter and remains so to this day. The first District Pastor of Theiriat was Pastor R. Lalrosanga.

Rules and Administration

Following the establishment of Theiriat District on June 1, 1990, local administrative guidelines were drafted based on the Constitution and District rules. A holiness campaign was launched, passing a resolution that "All church workers must abstain from tobacco and related substances," which continues to be maintained today. Local administration has been continually adjusted and expanded in scope, leading to the fully fledged local administrative handbook currently in place.

Church Building

Reconstruction of the church building began in 1996. Through the zeal and dedication of every church family and various departments, an RCC structure with pillars, beams, and walls was built, covered with a tin roof. This structure served for a long period until 2018 for regular worship services by around 340 church members. In 2018, plans were made to reconstruct the church; the old building was demolished, and the site was excavated using a JCB. Bank loans were taken, and building aid was received from the District. During the site excavation, services were held at Evan. C. Chawnthuama's residence. The lower ground floor was occupied in early 2020. Currently, construction work is ongoing under the initiative of the Church Board Committee. Additional bank loans are being secured with efforts underway to complete construction and occupy the new building within this year, 2026.

Conclusion

Currently, UPC Theiriat Local has 367 members, with 3 departments and committees functioning under the main church body. As per local administration rules, department and committee leaders, members, and their plans & budgets are approved by the Main Church Committee. The smooth alignment of departments and committees with the main church body is considered systematic and commendable for future continuity.

Current Status

Theiriat Local currently has 367 members (2025 report), with 6 Elders, 3 License Holders, and 6 Church Workers.

Main Church Leaders for 2025–2026