July 8, 2026: A new chapter in the faith formation journey of St Lawrence Church & Shrine, Bondel, began with the solemn inauguration of the “God With Us”

“ದೇವ್ ಆಮ್ಚ್ಯೆ ಸಾಂಗಾತಾ” ಮಾತೆವಾಚ್ಯೆ ಸುವಾರ್ತೆಚೆಂ ಗುಂಡಾಯೆನ್ ಅಧ್ಯಯನ್ Bible Course on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

The programme was jointly organised by the Bible Commission and the Word of God and Proclamation Commission, with the aim of helping parishioners deepen their knowledge, love, and lived experience of Sacred Scripture.

The inauguration commenced with a prayerful procession carrying lighted lamps and the Holy Bible, symbolising Christ, the Light of the World, and the living Word of God. The Holy Bible was reverently enthroned and adorned with a floral garland, signifying the parish’s love, honour, and devotion to God’s Word.

The solemn ceremony was led by Rev. Fr Basil Vas, Parish Priest of St Lawrence Church & Shrine; Rev. Fr Peter Gonsalves, Principal of St Lawrence English Medium School; Rev. Dr Vincent Sequeira, Secretary of the Diocesan Bible Commission; Mr John D’Silva, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mr Alwyn Saldanha, Secretary of the Parish Pastoral Council; Mrs Avitha Mascarenhas, Coordinator of the Parish Pastoral Commissions; and Mrs Cecilia D’Cunha, Convener of the Word of God and Proclamation Commission.

Following the enthronement, Rev. Fr Basil Vas read the word of God Matthew 1:23 led the faithful a meaningful prayer service, inviting everyone to open their hearts to God’s Word and to allow it to transform their lives.

In his inaugural address Fr Basil reminded the faithful that responding to the Bible course is itself a response to Jesus’ invitation. He expressed his joy at the large gathering and remarked that the participants’ presence reflected a genuine hunger for the Word of God. He warmly welcomed Rev. Dr Vincent Sequeira and invoked God’s abundant blessings upon all those taking part in this spiritual journey.

The inaugural session was led by Rev. Dr. Vincent Sequeira, who gave an inspiring introduction to the Gospel of Matthew. He highlighted the Gospel’s deep connection with the Old Testament and explained how Matthew presents Jesus as the New Moses, fulfilling God’s promises to His people. Through his reflections on Moses Typology, he encouraged participants to encounter Christ through Scripture and allow God’s Word to deepen their faith and guide their daily lives.

The “God With Us” Bible Course will be conducted over ten sessions, every Wednesday and Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. .

The evening concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving to God. Rev. Fr Basil Vas expressed heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Dr Vincent Sequeira for his enriching inaugural session and encouraged all participants to remain committed throughout the course, allowing the Word of God to guide, strengthen, and transform their lives.