Proclaiming the Word with New Zeal: Archdiocese Delegation at the All-India Bible Congress 2026

The months of January and February 2026 marked a period of vibrant biblical animation and pastoral engagement for the Commission for Bible of the Archdiocese of Bengaluru. Through participation in national ecclesial gatherings, diocesan-wide celebrations, and formative initiatives, the Commission continued to foster a deeper encounter with the Word of God among clergy, religious, and laity alike. These activities collectively reflect a dynamic commitment to making Scripture the heart of Christian life and mission. 

The journey began with the participation of a 16-member delegation from the Archdiocese in the All-India Bible Congress 2026, held from the 20th to the 22nd of January at Jnana Deepa Pontifical Athenaeum of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Pune. Organized by the CCBI Commission for Bible, the Congress was centred on the theme “Innovative Pathways in Proclaiming the Word of God in India.” The delegation, led by the Secretary of the Commission for Bible, Rev. Dr. Jeevan Prasad Dandavathi MSFS, actively engaged in the rich deliberations and discussions that characterized the gathering. The Congress was solemnly inaugurated by His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop Emeritus of Bombay, setting a tone of ecclesial unity and missionary zeal. A significant highlight of the event was the recognition of Rev. Dr. Lucien Legrand MEP, who was honoured for his extraordinary lifetime contributions to Biblical Theology, spanning over seventy years of teaching and scholarship both in India and abroad. Alongside him, several members of the laity were felicitated for their outstanding service to the biblical apostolate, underscoring the vital role of lay participation in the life of the Church.  

The Congress offered a comprehensive exploration of biblical ministry in contemporary contexts. Sessions delved into the prophetic traditions of pre-exilic and post-exilic periods, the ministry of the Word in the lives of Jesus and Paul, and the role of the Magisterium in fostering biblical renewal. Special emphasis was placed on innovative approaches to formation, Bible-based pastoral ministry, ecumenical collaboration, and the challenges and opportunities within the lay biblical apostolate. Panel discussions and region-wise group interactions provided a platform for participants to share experiences and envision future pathways. Inspired by these insights, the participants from the Bangalore Archdiocese have begun implementing renewed strategies and creative initiatives within their local contexts.