By Manasi Inamdar
Christian Institute of Management (CIM) jointly with the Board of Theological Education Senate of Serampore College (BTESSC) and Asia Theological Association (ATA) conducted consultations for the leaders of Theological Institutions/Bible Seminaries in the five regions of India – South, West, East, North Western and Northern region consultations were held recently.
The regional consultation for Western India was held at Hotel Samrat, Pune on Monday 19 November 2018. Representatives from leading theological Institutions and well wishers attended the programme. CA Raja B. Singh (Chartered Accountant) , Mumbai in the key note address titled ‘Legal and Managerial Scenario of Churches and Missions in India’, spoke about the ignorance of the tax system of the country, and discussed financial laws applicable for Institutions and churches. He particularly talked about and lack of awareness on GST and FCRA by Christian organisations . Rev. Dr. Praveen Paul, Principal of Union Biblical Seminary, Dr. Aby Alexandar, CIM and Dr. Reji Samuel took various sessions.
Regional consultation for Northern India was held at Navajeevan Renewal Centre, New Delhi, on Wednesday 21st November 2018. Key note address was presented by Dr. (CA) Sanjay Patra, (Exec. Director FMSF), on ‘Emerging Legal and Managerial Scenario of Churches and Missions in India.’ He highlighted on the challenges faced by organizations and institutions from externally and internally. He also encouraged Christian community to be prepared to respond positively and be a good model to the nation. Mr. Anand Joshua , Executive Director, CIM and Dr. Reji Samuel took various sessions.