- 06 October, 2026
BENGALURU, October 6, 2026: A month-long Bible course at the National Biblical Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), Bengaluru, sought to move participants beyond academic study of Scripture towards prayer, personal transformation and Christian witness.
Held from August 28 to September 24 under the theme “Walk with the Word,” the 28-day programme combined biblical instruction, prayer, reflection, group sharing and practical exercises, with an emphasis on encountering Scripture as the living Word of God.
The course provided an overview of major sections of the Bible, covering the Pentateuch, Historical Books, Prophets, Wisdom Literature, the Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, the Pauline Letters and Revelation.
Sr Virginia Rajakumari introduced participants to the Bible, while Fr Joseph Titus dealt with the Pentateuch. Fr Madalai Muthu covered the Prophets, Fr Anbu Nayangam the Psalms and Wisdom Literature, and Fr John Baptist the Historical Books.
The programme also examined the pastoral application of Scripture. Fr Patrick Mathias, SDB, of the CCBS Commission for Bible, conducted sessions on Biblical Pastoral Ministry, focusing on methods of bringing the Word of God into families, parishes, Basic Ecclesial Communities, religious communities and other pastoral settings.
The New Testament component explored the life and mission of Jesus and the growth of the early Church. Fr Alfred Joseph dealt with the Infancy and Passion Narratives, while Sr Preema, AC, introduced the Acts of the Apostles and the Church’s continuing mission through the Holy Spirit.
Sr Virginia Rajakumari led the study of Luke’s Gospel, Fr Stanislaus covered Matthew, and Fr Benny, CMF, presented the Gospel of John.
From September 17 to 19, Fr Raymond Joseph focused on the spirituality of St Paul, examining his conversion, missionary journeys, letters, theology and commitment to proclaiming Christ. Bishop Peter Abi addressed the Book of Revelation, reflecting on suffering, evil, human freedom, sin and Christian hope.
Fr Nysson Luka’s session, “The Word that Transforms,” explored Scripture as a living and active Word. He introduced participants to three dimensions of biblical interpretation—the world behind the text, the world of the text and the world in front of the text—and highlighted the importance of the Holy Spirit, historical and cultural context, and Christ as the key to interpreting Scripture.
The course also introduced participants to different methods of praying with Scripture. Fr Mario Mendes led sessions on Bible prayer and systematic Bible study, while Bible sharing and group reflection provided opportunities to connect Scripture with personal faith and pastoral experience.
The programme concluded on September 24 with a session by Soncihen on the integrated reading of the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The session explored the four pillars of Catholic faith formation: the Creed, the Sacraments, Life in Christ and Christian Prayer.
The course sought to establish a progression from knowing the Word to encountering it, from studying Scripture to praying it, and from prayer to living the Word. Participants were encouraged to carry their biblical formation into pastoral ministry and daily Christian life, allowing Scripture to shape their witness and contribute to the transformation of their communities.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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