All-India Bible Conference 2026 Explores New Ways to Proclaim God’s Word

Pune, January 25, 2026:

Innovative and contextual approaches to proclaiming the Word of God in India were the focus of the All-India Bible Conference 2026, which concluded on January 22 at Jnan Deepa, Pune.

Held from January 20 to 22, the national conference brought together 232 delegates from across the country, including a Cardinal, six Bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful, reflecting broad participation from the Indian Church.

Centred on the theme “Innovative Pathways in Proclaiming the Word of God in India,” the conference featured scholarly paper presentations, panel discussions, and faith-sharing sessions that encouraged dialogue between Scripture scholars, pastoral practitioners, and lay leaders. Participants also engaged in regional group discussions to discern practical strategies for strengthening biblical ministry in diverse local contexts.

The conference opened with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Cardinal Oswald Gracias and concelebrated by six Bishops. During the inaugural session, noted biblical scholar and missionary Fr. Lucien Legrand, MEP, was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his 70 years of dedicated service to biblical apostolate in India.

Daily Eucharistic celebrations and periods of Lectio Divina provided a strong spiritual foundation for the proceedings.

On the final day, delegates reviewed the outcomes of group discussions and unanimously approved a Final Statement and Action Plan, committing themselves to renewed efforts in promoting Scripture-based pastoral ministry.

The three-day gathering concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Patrick, SDB, Executive Secretary of the Commission for the Bible, marking the close of a conference aimed at equipping clergy, religious, and laity for a more creative and transformative proclamation of God’s Word.

All-India Bible Conference 2026 Explores New Ways to Proclaim God’s Word

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