MANGALORE, JULY 06: Commission for Bible of the Diocese of Mangalore, brought together Ninety Parish Commission for Bible Secretaries from across the Mangalore Diocese for a significant gathering titled Bible Vision 2026, on July 5, 2026, at Jyothi Nivas Hall, Shanthi Kiran, Bajjodi, Mangalore. This convention served as a vital platform for spiritual empowerment and strategic planning for the biblical apostolate at the grassroots level.
The convention was graced by the presence and guidance of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, who delivered a stirring address to the assembled secretaries. The Bishop emphasised the indispensable role of the Word of God within the sacramental life and vocation of the faithful, providing a deep theological connection to daily practice. By illustrating how specific prayers and phrases within the Eucharist are deeply rooted in Sacred Scripture, he provided concrete examples of the Bible’s living presence in the liturgy, encouraging the gathering to be steadfast in their mission of spreading God’s message.
Following the Bishop’s address, Rev. Dr. Vincent Sequeira, the Diocesan Secretary for the Commission for Bible, served as the primary resource person for the day. His presentation was built upon a synodal approach, exploring how commission secretaries can work collaboratively in biblical pastoral ministry throughout the diocese. He also took the opportunity to review the various ongoing activities led by the diocesan commission, ensuring that all participants were well-informed of the current initiatives aimed at fostering biblical literacy and devotion.
A central component of the session was the unveiling of a comprehensive pastoral plan for the biblical apostolate over the next three years. This roadmap outlined specific goals for the diocese, emphasising the need for improved communication channels between secretaries at the parish, deanery, and diocesan levels. Furthermore, the discussion highlighted the essential role of media in biblical pastoral ministry, seeking modern ways to convey scriptural truths to a contemporary audience and bridge the gap between ancient texts and modern life.
The successful execution of the program was made possible by a collaborative effort in logistics and arrangements led by Rev. Fr. Rohith D’Costa, Director of Mangala Jyothi; Rev Fr Santhosh Rodrigues, Pastoral Centre Director; Br Alwyn Pinto, Regent at Pastoral Centre, along with a dedicated team including Mr. Reevan Dsouza and Mrs Sumitra Crasta, Mangala Jyothi and Mr Macklin Dsouza, Bejai. Bible Vision 2026 was a valuable initiative in the biblical formation of the Parish Commission Secretaries of the Biblical Apostolate. It strengthened their understanding and commitment to the ministry of the Word, equipping them to ensure that Sacred Scripture remains the primary source of spiritual nourishment and renewal for the entire parish community.
