- 30 May, 2026
Bengaluru, May 30, 2026: Efforts to strengthen biblical ministry and promote greater collaboration among Church regions received renewed impetus as the Commission for Bible of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) convened a two-day Animation and Update Programme for Regional Bible Commission Secretaries at the National Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), Bengaluru, on May 28–29.
The programme brought together the 14 Regional Bible Commission Secretaries from across the country for ongoing formation, evaluation of pastoral initiatives, and reflection on the implementation of the Biblical Pastoral Plan 2033, a long-term vision for promoting the Word of God in the life and mission of the Church in India.
The gathering provided a platform for participants to share pastoral experiences from their respective regions, strengthen bonds of fraternity, and explore new and creative approaches to biblical apostolate in contemporary society.
Among the highlights of the programme were sessions led by Mr. Anil Rego, Managing Director of Brilliant Printers, and Fr. Naveen Rebello, SVD. Rego addressed participants on the theme “Print Media and Biblical Apostolate,” highlighting the continuing relevance of printed Scripture and faith resources in evangelisation and catechesis. Fr. Rebello conducted an engaging session on “How to Read the Bible: The Art of Reading Biblical Stories,” encouraging participants to adopt more creative and participatory methods of Scripture sharing and biblical storytelling.
Through practical exercises, discussions, and prayerful reflection, participants explored ways of helping the faithful engage more deeply with Sacred Scripture and integrate the Word of God into daily Christian life.
Bishop Anthonysamy Peter Abir of Sultanpet, Chairmanship of the CCBI Commission for Bible, presided over key sessions and urged the Regional Secretaries to become authentic and effective ministers of the Word. He encouraged them to animate biblical ministry in their regions with renewed zeal and missionary commitment.
Fr. Patrick Mathias, SDB, Executive Secretary of the Commission for Bible, outlined the responsibilities of Regional Secretaries and presented the objectives of the Biblical Pastoral Plan 2033. Stressing the importance of collaboration and shared vision, he called on participants to work together in strengthening biblical ministry across the country.
The programme also included the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, updates on various initiatives undertaken by the National Commission for Bible, and presentations on regional pastoral experiences. Participants were introduced to the Vacation Bible School (VBS) initiative through a presentation by Fr. Michael Raj Sebastin, who highlighted its potential in nurturing biblical values among children and young people.
A visit to Brilliant Printers offered participants firsthand exposure to the ministry of Bible printing and distribution. The visit underscored the important role of print media in making Scripture accessible to a wider audience and supporting evangelisation efforts throughout India.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment among the participants. Strengthened by fraternity, enriched through shared experiences, and inspired by a common vision, the Regional Secretaries returned to their respective regions determined to deepen biblical ministry and promote greater love for the Word of God within the Church in India.
By Fr. Patrick Mathias SDB
Executive Secretary, Commission for Bible, CCBI
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