Bengaluru: A One Month Intensive Bible Course, “Walk with the Word,” was conducted from 28 August to 24 September 2026 at the National Biblical Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (NBCLC), Bengaluru. The programme offered participants an intensive journey of biblical study, prayer, reflection, and spiritual formation, with the aim of helping them encounter the living God through His Word and deepen their commitment to Christian life and mission.

The programme was inaugurated in the presence of Rev. Fr. Dr. John Baptist, Director of NBCLC, resource persons, staff members, and participants. The inaugural ceremony included the invocation of the Holy Spirit, lighting of the lamp, and an introductory address.

The course covered the major sections of Sacred Scripture, including the Pentateuch, Prophets, Wisdom Literature, Historical Books, Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, Pauline Letters, and Revelation. Sr. Virginia Rajakumari gave the general introduction to the Bible, while Rev. Fr. Joseph Titus led the study of the Pentateuch. Rev. Fr. Madalai Muthu conducted sessions on the Prophets, and Fr. Anbu Nayangam introduced the Psalms and Wisdom Literature. Fr. John Baptist led sessions on the Historical Books.

The course also emphasized the pastoral dimension of Scripture. Fr. Patrick Mathias, SDB, of the CCBS Commission for Bible, conducted sessions on Biblical Pastoral Ministry – Methods and Dynamics, focusing on ways of bringing the Word of God into families, parishes, Basic Ecclesial Communities, religious communities, and pastoral structures.

The New Testament sessions enabled participants to deepen their understanding of the life and mission of Jesus. Fr. Alfred Joseph explored the Infancy and Passion Narratives, while Sr. Preema, AC, introduced the Acts of the Apostles and the continuing mission of the Church through the Holy Spirit. Sr. Virginia Rajakumari presented the Gospel according to Luke, Fr. Stanislaus introduced Matthew, and Fr. Benny, CMF, led the study of the Gospel according to John.

From 17–19 September, Fr. Raymond Joseph conducted sessions on the Spirituality of Paul, covering Paul's conversion, missionary journeys, letters, theology, and commitment to proclaiming Christ. Rev. Bishop Peter Abi led a session on the Book of Revelation, reflecting on suffering, evil, human freedom, sin, and Christian hope.

Fr. Nysson Luka conducted a session entitled “The Word that Transforms,” highlighting the living and active nature of God's Word and introducing the three dimensions of biblical interpretation: the world behind the text, the world of the text, and the world in front of the text. The importance of the Holy Spirit, historical and cultural context, and Jesus as the hermeneutical key was emphasized.

The final days focused on Bible sharing, prayer, and practical Bible study methods. Fr. Mario Mendes introduced various methods of praying with Scripture and a systematic approach to Bible study. On 24 September, Mr. Soncihen conducted the concluding session on the integrated reading of the Bible and the Catechism of the Catholic Church, reflecting on the four pillars of the Catechism: Creed, Sacraments, Life in Christ, and Christian Prayer.

The twenty-eight-day course was more than an academic study of Scripture. It became a journey from knowing the Word to encountering the Word, from studying Scripture to praying Scripture, and from praying Scripture to living the Word. Through biblical teaching, prayer, reflection, group sharing, and practical exercises, participants were encouraged to carry the Word of God into their pastoral ministry and daily Christian witness.

The programme concluded with a renewed invitation to walk with the Word, listen to God, encounter Christ, and allow His Word to transform lives and communities.