Kochi: The Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (KCBC) Bible Commission has officially announced its annual Bible Literary Competitions for 2025, calling upon the faithful from all walks of life to participate in this spiritually enriching initiative. With the aim of deepening the understanding and experience of Sacred Scripture through creative expression, the competition welcomes original literary contributions in four categories: Poetry, Short Story, Article, and Monologue.
This year’s competition remains open to participants without any age or class division, making it inclusive of laity, seminarians, and conventual religious sisters. The central requirement for all entries is a biblically rooted theme, allowing participants to explore scripture in ways that resonate with modern Christian life while maintaining scriptural fidelity. Periodical interpretations of biblical themes are also accepted, but plagiarism, adaptations, or translations of previously published work are strictly prohibited.
Specific guidelines have been set for each literary form. Poems must not exceed 60 lines, while short stories are limited to six handwritten or three typed pages. Articles may contain up to ten handwritten or six printed pages, and monologues should be capable of being performed within thirty minutes. Each submission must be entirely original and anonymous, with the writer’s personal details including name, address, and diocese attached separately.
In addition to general participation, the Bible Commission has introduced three thematic categories for articles, assigned according to the participant group. Laypersons are to write on "Christians as Pilgrims of Hope in the Jubilee Year", seminarians will explore the theme "Hope Does Not Disappoint Us (Romans 5:5)", and religious sisters are invited to reflect on "Pope Francis, Prophet of Hope". These focused themes are intended to encourage deeper spiritual contemplation in light of the Jubilee Year and the Church’s universal call to hope.
Each submission must be accompanied by a certificate from the participant's parish vicar or religious superior, confirming authenticity and eligibility. A registration fee of ₹50 is also required per entry. Payments can be made via Money Order or bank transfer to the KCBC Bible Commission's official account (A/c No: 0423053000006271, IFSC: SIBL0000423, SWIFT: SOININ55) at South Indian Bank, Vennala Branch.
The deadline for submission is October 1, 2025. Participants may submit their works either in person or via postal service. All entries are to be sent to:
The Secretary, KCBC Bible Commission, P.O.C., Palarivattom, Vennala P.O., Kochi – 682028.
The Bible Commission encourages wide participation in this initiative that not only nurtures literary talent but also fosters a stronger connection to the Word of God. With creativity and faith intertwined, the competition offers a meaningful opportunity for Catholic writers to be heard and celebrated within the larger Christian community.