The Bible Convention 2026 was successfully held on 8th March 2026 at the St. Joseph Vaz Spiritual Renewal Retreat Centre, Cruz Milagres, Old Goa. The convention, centered on the theme “The Eucharist: Source and Summit of Christian Life,” was organized by the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate, Goa & Daman (DCBA). It witnessed the participation of over 400 faithful, including clergy, religious, and lay representatives from across the diocese. The event commenced with registration, followed by a welcome address by Rev. Fr. Mariano D’Costa, Director of DCBA who encouraged participants to enter into a deeper encounter with the Word of God and the mystery of the Eucharist. The solemn Enthronement of the Bible underscored the centrality of Sacred Scripture in the life of the Church. The keynote address was delivered by Most Rev. Simião P. Fernandes on “The Eucharist as Source and Summit: Its Biblical Roots in the Old Testament.” His exposition highlighted the prefiguration of the Eucharist in the Old Testament, particularly through the themes of manna and covenantal sacrifice. Subsequent sessions included “Christ Truly Present: The Eucharist in the New Testament” by Rev. Fr. Macson Fernandes and “Word and Eucharist: One Act of Worship” by Rev. Fr. Edson Fernandes, both of which offered theological and pastoral insights into the Eucharistic mystery. A period of Eucharistic Adoration, accompanied by a reflection from Rev. Fr. Peter Britto on Eucharistic miracles, provided a moment of deep spiritual engagement. The afternoon session featured testimonies by participants, followed by a talk by Rev. Fr. Henry Falcão on “The Eucharist: At the Heart of the Church’s Life and Mission,” emphasizing the Eucharist as the source of Christian witness and service. The convention concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Mariano D’Costa. A vote of thanks was delivered by Mr. Shuban De Souza, expressing sincere appreciation to all who contributed to the success of the event. This was the first time a Bible Convention was initiated and organized by DCBA. Almost everyone felt spiritually enriched and suggested that such Bible Conventions be organized more frequently in our Archdiocese, preferably at least twice a year. This marked the first-ever Bible Convention organized by the Diocesan Centre for Biblical Apostolate, and it proved to be a deeply enriching and grace-filled experience. Nearly all participants expressed a heartfelt desire for such conventions to be held more frequently in the Archdiocese—preferably at least twice a year.
Mr. Shuban De Souza
