India: Archdiocese of Goa and Daman Marks Sunday of the Word of God

The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, southwest India,  observed the Sunday of the Word of God on January 25, coinciding with the Diploma Day of the Bible Course organized by the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate at St. Jerome’s Church, Mapusa.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Auxiliary Bishop Simião Fernandes. Fr. Mariano D’Costa, Director of the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate, Fr. Leonardo Moraes, Parish Priest of St. Jerome’s Church, Mapusa, and other priests concelebrated.

In his homily on the theme “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly” (cf. Col 3:16), Bishop Fernandes urged the faithful to allow the Word of God to take deep root in their lives and to become living witnesses who give spiritual “taste” to others.

Highlighting the transformative power of Scripture, the Bishop said the Word of God is a light for those who walk in darkness (cf. Ps 119:105). He noted that it strengthens ecclesial communion, renews hearts, and draws believers into active participation in the Kingdom of God. Reflecting on Christian foundations, he recalled Jesus’ parable of the house built on rock (cf. Mt 7:24–25), encouraging the faithful to build their lives firmly on the Word so they may withstand life’s storms.

Bishop Fernandes further explained that those who listen to and live the Word become members of Jesus’ family, citing the Gospel passage: “Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother” (cf. Mk 3:35). He also spoke of the healing power of the Word, emphasizing that when Scripture is put into practice, it brings inner healing and leads believers along the path of righteousness.

Echoing St. Paul’s exhortation to be “doers of the Word,” the Bishop reminded the faithful that Sacred Scripture is not meant for occasional reading but is daily nourishment that sustains Christian life and discipleship.

At the conclusion of the celebration, Bishop Fernandes congratulated the diploma recipients and thanked the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate, the parish priest, and assistant priests for their coordination and commitment. Participants who successfully completed the Diploma Course in the Bible were presented with their diplomas, recognizing their dedication to studying and proclaiming the Word of God. Members of the core team of the Bible Course and others who contributed to its success were also felicitated by the Bishop.

Melissa Simoes served as the liturgical commentator, while Fr. Mariano D’Costa expressed words of gratitude to all who supported the programme.

Testimonies from Participants

Speaking to Radio Veritas Asia, Angela J. Noronha Lobo shared that hosting the Bible Course in her parish profoundly impacted her life from the very first day. She said the in-depth explanation of the Old Testament “opened up so much that was previously unknown” and deepened her desire to read Scripture. “The Word of God has helped me accept that God has a plan and will see me through every storm,” she said, adding that daily reading has shaped her attitude, fostered forgiveness, and brought blessings to her family.

Reflecting on his journey, Neville Joe Correia said the course helped him understand “the important events in the history of salvation with clarity and proper knowledge,” and how these events remain relevant in everyday life. He added that the deeper engagement with Scripture empowered him to share what he learned with others. “I am truly grateful for this opportunity, as it inspired me to draw closer to the Word of God,” he said.

Sharing her experience of the Bible Diploma Course 2025–2026, Rosterio Lopes Fernandes said the programme inspired her to adopt a daily habit of reading Scripture. “A chapter a day keeps me in the loop of all that the Lord has to say,” she remarked, noting that the course encouraged personal reflection. “If I miss a chapter one day, I make up for it the next,” she added.

John Nazareth described the eight to nine months of attending the Bible Course as deeply enriching. He said the sessions strengthened his prayer life and helped him understand people and everyday situations with greater clarity and compassion. “The course helped me understand God better through everything around me,” he said, adding that the Gospel call to love God, neighbour, and self became a guiding light in his life.

Agnes shared that her parish in Mapusa was privileged to host the Bible Course led by Fr. Mariano D’Costa, whose patient and insightful teaching transformed her understanding of Scripture. She admitted that she once approached the Old Testament with hesitation, viewing it mainly through the lens of God’s wrath. Through the sessions, she discovered its deeper meaning within the history of salvation. She described the experience as a genuine spiritual awakening, where God seemed to speak personally through His Word.

Marcelino de Souza said he joined the course to gain deeper insight into Scripture and described the experience as “an eye-opener.” Learning in greater detail about the Word of God and the history of salvation, he added, encouraged him to read the Bible more attentively and motivated him to share the Word of God with others.