INITIATIVES FOR AND PROGRESS OF THE CHURCH FORMATION

When the spiritual revival of around 1947 reached Mizoram, its influence also touched Cherhlun village. As time went on, divisions arose within the Baptist Church regarding spiritual revival practices; some members disapproved of traditional revival songs (lengkhawm hla), worship with two drums, and speaking in tongues. Consequently, those who desired to sing revival songs and worship with two drums began meeting separately. Pu Sangzika, a courageous man who became one of the founders of the UPC, notably served as the drum player for these services.

Worshiping with two drums and singing revival songs were viewed by some as improper and unscriptural, and spiritual experiences were regarded as unbiblical. As a result, those involved in these revival services faced marginalization, contempt, and opposition. Finding it impossible to continue together, five families separated from the Baptist Church and began worshiping independently at the residence of Pi Darkhaii (mother of Pu Thanzaua).

Establishment of the Church:

From September 1 to 4, 1954, Rev. Saihnuna, along with Church Elder Pasaia of Sailulak, Pu Tumsanga, and brethren from N. Vanlaiphai Leilet, visited Cherhlun to conduct ministry services at the residence of the village chief, Pu F. Thangdula. On September 3, 1954, twenty-one individuals who desired to join the UPC signed their names, and on the following day, September 4, 1954, Rev. Saihnuna officially organized the Church. The early congregation was characterized by deep love for one another, fervent prayer, and a strong sense of God's presence.

Since Rev. Saihnuna did not perform baptisms during his initial visit, District Pastor Rev. Zakamlova visited toward the end of October 1954 and conducted the first water baptism service at Rachi Tuikhur. Among those baptized were Sawibuta, Sangzika, Lalruma, Bawihngura, Patea (Rothanga), Nuthimi's father, and Darkhai.

In 1961, Rev. Saihnuna visited Cherhlun once again, and his ministry had a profound impact across the entire village. Through his ministry, a large number of people joined the UPC, expanding the membership to around 300 to 400. From that period onward, the Pentecostal Church continued to grow steadfastly.

EARLY CHURCH LEADERS

In 1956, Rev. Zakamlova visited and officially organized the church executive body for the first time. The leaders appointed were:

• Chairman : Elder Sangzika
• Secretary : Elder Ngunawia
• Treasurer : Elder Zakhuma
• Preacher/Worker : Rothanga

Due to the political insurgency, many early church documents were lost, and records of the initial department leaders are no longer available.

ACQUISITION AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHURCH BUILDING

Prior to the establishment of the church building, members during prayer experienced a spiritual vision of a bright light over the present church location, foretelling that a church would one day stand on that spot. Those who witnessed this light during prayer were Lalruma, Kapluaia, and Thanthiana.

When the church was first organized without a building, members held worship services in rotation at the houses of Pu Bawihngura, Pu Rothanga, Pu Thanzauva, and Pu Sawibuta. Although their request to the Village Council for land was delayed, the present site was granted in early 1955—a location early leaders believed was revealed by the Holy Spirit through prayer.

In 1955, a small bamboo-mat church was constructed, with bamboo utilized for seating and the pulpit. This first church building was inaugurated by Rev. Zakamlova.

In 1962, the church building was rebuilt using a thatched roof and bamboo walls. It was inaugurated by Rev. Lalthima during a special feast.

In 1972, the building was reconstructed again with a corrugated iron sheet roof and wooden walls. This building was inaugurated by Evan. Rodawla.

In 1983, a new church building measuring 42ft in length and 24ft in width was built with a corrugated iron roof and tile walls. It was inaugurated by District Pastor Rev. H. Lalruata.

On February 15, 2010, Sr. Elder Ngunawia laid the foundation stone for the current church structure. Construction began with initial church funds of only Rs. 1,76,000/-. Relying on faith and securing bank loans, the congregation completed an RCC structure (measuring 62ft in length, 27ft in width, and 17ft in height), which was officially inaugurated on February 8, 2019, by Rev. R. Lalrosanga, Lunglei District Superintendent.

PRESENT STATUS

Within Cherhlun Local, according to the current status (2025 Half-Yearly Statistic Report), there are 265 members (130 Males, 135 Females).

2025-2026 Church Leaders :

• Chairman : Elder F. Lalchangliana
• Secretary : Elder Lallianzama
• Treasurer : Elder C. Lalchangliana
• Statistician : Rbt. C. Lalpianmawia