Daijiworld Media Network – Moodbidri
Moodbidri, Dec 1: Helen Lobo of Alangar church in the Mangalore diocese has become an inspiring example of dedication, faith and perseverance for the entire Christian community. In a span of just 11 months, she handwritten both the Old and New Testaments of the Holy Bible in Konkani, enriching the faith tradition of the Alangar parish.
In 2022, during an official visit to the Alangar Church, the Bishop asked parishioners, “Do you read the Bible?” Many responded positively. But when he asked, “Have you ever written the Bible?” silence filled the church. This moment planted a seed in Helen’s mind. She wondered, “Why shouldn’t I write the entire Bible?” and immediately began her spiritual journey.
Helen works in the flower industry from 9 to 11 am, after which she dedicated her time daily to writing the Bible in Konkani. Though she began slowly, she eventually reached a routine of writing 50 pages a day. Through this disciplined effort, she completed the New Testament within seven months, astonishing many in the clergy.
In 2023, a handwritten Bible competition was announced for seniors at the Alangar Church, requiring participants to complete the entire Bible within a year. This gave Helen a fresh goal. She woke up at 3 am each day, prepared tea for her son, completed prayers and household chores, and ensured she met her daily writing target. With steady effort, she finished both the Old and New Testaments in 11 months.
Helen received wholehearted support from her family. Her husband assisted with cooking, her daughter bought the pens she needed, and her children shared household responsibilities. Whenever she felt hand pain from writing, she took short breaks to do light chores before resuming her work—reflecting her remarkable commitment.
Helen found it especially difficult to write the complex names in the Old Testament, often reviewing and rewriting them multiple times. She exercised great care to ensure each page of the New Testament was error-free. While writing parts like the trials of Job, she was sometimes moved to tears, revealing the depth of her devotion.
Helen became the only person in Alangar church to handwritten both Testaments in Konkani. She was honoured with the first prize of Rs 11,111. She expressed special gratitude to the then parish priest, Fr Walter D’Souza, who organised the competition. Helen said she had no desire to set any world record; her only aim was to strengthen the faith of her community.
Sharing the essence of her faith, Helen said, “If we read, write and live God’s Word, peace enters our family. The Bible has blessed our home. Even with limited education, our children have reached good positions—that is God’s grace. So I urge everyone to read, write and practice the Bible in their daily life.”
Helen Lobo’s handwritten Bible stands as a shining example of devotion, hard work and unity for the Alangar church community. Such individuals strengthen society through faith and serve as guiding lights for all.
Fr Melwyn Noronha, Fr Robert Crasta, parish council vice-president Edward Serao, secretary Lawrence Anil D’Cunha, commission coordinator Rajesh D’Souza of Kadalkere, parishioners, and Alwyn Rodrigues, president of Catholic Sabha Mangalore Pradesh (R), Moodbidri deanery, have all extended their heartfelt congratulations to Helen for her exceptional accomplishment.