India: Carmelites Host Seminar to Train Priests & Lay in Bible Software and AI Tools

The Karnataka–Goa Province of the Order of Discalced Carmelites, in collaboration with the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, organized a Bible Symposium on the theme “Biblical Text in Its Context in the Digital and AI Age.” The event was held at the Divine Springs Retreat Centre, Xellim, Loliem, Canacona, Goa, from August 27 to 29, 2025.

The symposium, organized to mark both the Jubilee Year 2025 and the Centenary of the Canonization of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, drew over 50 participants, both lay and religious. 

The inauguration ceremony was led by Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman and Chairman of the Western Region CCBI Bible Commission. Joining him were Pius James D’Souza OCD, Definitor General of the Order of Discalced Carmelites; Richard D’Souza OCD, Coordinator of the Symposium; Alphonse Britto OCD, Provincial Councilor for Spirituality; Fr. Rovel D’Souza, Superior of the Divine Springs Retreat Centre; and Gregory D’Souza OCD. Together, they lit the traditional lamp to mark the inauguration.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Simião reminded participants: “The Bible is a light for our path. We need to fall in love with the Bible and make use of it in our daily life.” He urged the participants to make the Bible “bread for their daily use.” Through practical examples, he also reflected on the Church’s guidelines for interpreting Scripture.

On this occasion, the Divine Springs Retreat Centre felicitated Bishop Simião Fernandes on his first visit to the community after his Episcopal Ordination.

The symposium was designed with multiple objectives, including: enabling young priests to proclaim the Word with greater depth and clarity in pastoral settings; equipping participants with essential tools for preaching and catechesis; training clergy in the use of Bible software, AI tools, and online research resources for study and ministry; demonstrating how digital and theological tools can be applied in homilies, catechesis, retreats, and formation work; and encouraging participants to pursue further studies in biblical theology or exegesis.

The symposium concluded with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Fr. Silvestre D’Souza OCD, Provincial Superior of the Karnataka–Goa Province of the Carmelites. In his homily, he reflected on the mission of St. John the Baptist, who fearlessly proclaimed repentance and prepared the way for the Messiah. He also congratulated the organizers and expressed joy at the success of the event.

Fr. Rovel D’Souza, Superior of the Divine Springs Retreat Centre, offered heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the symposium.