Gangtok, Jan. 3: Chief minister Pawan Chamling today inaugurated a new building of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Sikkim (EPCS) at Tadong, a Gangtok exurb.

The Evangelical Presbyterian — a Protestant denomination — believers in the hill state manage the financial affairs of the church on their own. “The funds for the new building, which was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 18 lakh, were raised by us. The state government had, however, donated Rs 1.5 lakh as assistance,” said G.T. Dhungel, a firm believer.

The old structure was built in 1987 when the faith evoked interest among a section of Sikkimese.

Pastor P. S. Tingbo, who is in-charge of the Northeast Presbytery, Ruben Rai, president, EPCS were present during the inauguration programme.

Former MLA, Menlom Lepcha, president, church construction committee, was also present on the occasion.