Kochi: The Kerala Catholic Church has officially commenced its annual observance of December as the Bible Reading Month, a period dedicated to deepening the faithful’s engagement with the Word of God. This initiative, timed with the season commemorating the birth of Christ, aims to inspire a more virtuous society imbued with divine wisdom, goodness, and love.
The inaugural event took place at Puthenpally Parish, Varappuzha, where Bishop James Anaparampil, Chairman of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) Bible Commission, led the ceremonies. Around 150 parishioners participated in a remarkable exercise, reading the entire Bible collectively within an hour under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Jose Edassery, the parish vicar.
Earlier, in the Irinjalakuda Diocese, the 24-day Bible reading program was inaugurated at Karalam Parish by Bishop Pauly Kannukkadan, Vice-Chairman of the KCBC. The event featured a benediction sermon delivered by Rev. Fr. Jolly Vadakkan, Apostolic Visitor for Arabian countries, emphasizing the transformative power of scripture in daily life.
In the Archdiocese of Varappuzha, Director Sijan Manuveliparampil initiated a special Bible reading program for all parish families at Cheranallur Parish, ensuring participation across generations. The observance will conclude on December 28 at the Kottappuram Diocese Cathedral, with Bishop Ambrose Puthenveetil presiding over the final ceremony.
According to Fr. Joju Kokkat, Secretary of the KCBC Bible Commission, this Jubilee year’s Bible Reading Month is being celebrated across all dioceses of Kerala, reflecting the Church’s commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and fostering a deeper connection with God’s Word among the faithful.
This annual observance not only highlights the significance of scripture in Catholic life but also encourages communities to internalize and live by the teachings of the Bible throughout the year.