History

THE HISTORY OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN INDIA (REFORMED)

The history of the Presbyterian Church in India (Reformed) traces back to the arrival of Christianity in Manipur after the British occupation in 1891 through both the Northern Gate (Naga tribes) and the Southern Gate (Chin-Kuki tribes), and within a few decades the Southern region, though consisting of one race with many dialects, was evangelized with the arrival of Watkin Roberts from Aizawl, Mizoram in 1910.

Watkin Roberts organized native workers under the Thadou-Kuki Pioneer Mission in 1913, later renamed NEIGM in 1925, initially followed Presbyterian and Reformed traditions but gradually leaned toward a nondenominational, Arminian orientation through Rev. Paul Rostad. Rev. Vung D. Tombing attempted to restore Calvinism by translating the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms into Paite for Christian school subject, but failed, leading to the formation of PCI(R) on April 20, 1084.

A decisive turning point occurred in 1984 when the Evangelical Convention Church (ECC), which had emerged from NEIGM, formally rejected Reformed (Covenant) theology. This doctrinal departure prompted a group of ministers and adherents committed to Reformed theology, under the leadership of Rev. Vung D. Tombing, to establish the Presbyterian Church in India (Reformed) on April 20, 1984. The denomination was subsequently registered in 1988 under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.

During its formative years (1984–1986), PCI(R) functioned independently amidst considerable financial and social challenges. Nevertheless, it remained committed to maintaining Reformed doctrine and Presbyterian Church governance. Rev. Rualzakham was appointed as the first Organizing Pastor, playing a significant role in consolidating the newly formed church. The early expansion of PCI(R) included the establishment of village schools and active engagement in community development initiatives, reflecting a holistic approach to mission. Later expanded into multiple presbyteries in 2003 and 2006 to ensure local church governance and developing leadership.

Despite the severe setbacks during the ethnic clashes of 1997–1998, sixteen local churches has left joining other community based denominations. But the church had rebuilt with renewed strength by God’s grace and grew to 44 local churches, and 3 city churches divided into 6 presbyteries operating beyond the state of Manipur.

In addition to ecclesiastical growth, PCI(R) has emphasized social and educational ministries. The church has established Christ-centered schools, Bible school, Orphanage homes, aimed at providing holistic education, and supporting children for their education in remoted areas. Its ongoing commitment to mercy ministry includes supporting the education of underprivileged children and sustaining village schools in regions with limited access to government services

Throughout this journey of growth and renewal, PCI(R) consistently upheld and strengthened its doctrinal identity as a Reformed church firmly committed to Calvinist theology, combining spiritual conviction with social responsibility. Thus, the Presbyterian Church in India (Reformed) emerged from doctrinal disputes by adopting Reformed theology.