India: Daughters of St. Paul Distribute Hundreds of Khasi Bibles in Remote Villages of Shillong Archdiocese

The Daughters of St. Paul distributed 200 Khasi-language Bibles to families in one of the remotest villages of Umtngam under Umkadhor Parish in the Archdiocese of Shillong, in the North Eastern Indian state of Meghalaya.

The Bible distribution initiative began in 2021. On November 26, the feast of the Congregation’s Founder, the Sisters distributed  around 100 copies of the New Testament in Khasi to local families of Umtngam village belonging to Mawlysnai Parish. The mission expanded in 2023, when the community—marking its Golden Jubilee—gifted 500 New Testament copies. Once the full Khasi Bible was reprinted, the Sisters resumed their outreach, traveling to additional villages to continue the initiative.

“It was a joy for us”

For the most recent distribution on November 15, 2025, the Sisters spent two full days visiting each of the 200 Catholic families to prepare them spiritually to welcome the Scriptures into their homes.

“On the first day we walked for ten hours, and on the next for eleven hours continuously,” said Sr. Helena. “But it was a joy for us, as many children accompanied us from house to house. The people are simple, welcoming, and very receptive.”

“The Bible is a vessel of God’s love”

Community Superior Sr. Shalini emphasized the deeper meaning of gifting the Scriptures:

“The Bible isn’t just a book—it is a vessel of God’s love, a source of hope, and a guide for life. Even if someone cannot read, receiving the Scripture brings God’s presence into their home. It offers comfort, wisdom, and connection.”

“Read the Bible Every Day”

Parish priest Fr. John Paul expressed profound gratitude to the Sisters for reaching such an interior village.

In his homily, he reminded the faithful:“The Sisters left their regular responsibilities to visit your homes, pray with you, and teach you how to read the Word of God. Now it is your turn: read the Bible every day, even a little—morning or evening—and pray for the Sisters so that they may continue this mission.”

He also encouraged young girls of the parish to consider joining the Daughters of St. Paul, inspired by their dedication to evangelization.

“By Saving for the Word”

Villagers expressed heartfelt appreciation: “We are so grateful you chose our village for the Bible Mission. We feel privileged.”

The Bibles were partly sponsored by benefactor Mr. Orlando, known for his strong commitment to spreading the Word of God and supporting Bible distribution in various regional languages in different dioceses in India where Daughters of St Paul are present.

Despite limited resources, the Sisters continue their mission through personal sacrifices—“not out of abundance,” they noted, “but by making mortifications and saving for the Word of God.”

To date, the community has distributed more than 500 Bibles, with plans to reach other villages in the parish where families cannot afford to purchase one.