Media Release
Dharwad, Dec 30: The Bethany Sisters of the Western Province conducted a three-day Bible Convention from December 27 to 29, at Sevalaya, Dharwad.
The Bible Convention was led by the esteemed Catholic Charismatic Renewal Preacher, Fr Franklin D'Souza, from the diocese of Shimoga. The convention was formally inaugurated on the 27 by Sr Sally BS, provincial superior of the Western Province. The event featured a Bible procession and a veneration of the Bible by the Preacher. The stage programme was expertly guided by assistant provincial superior Sr Shalet Mendonca. Also present on the dais were Pastoral Centre director Fr Peter D'Souza, and the music team, Brian and Justina.
Day 1 featured presentations by Fr Franklin D'Souza on ‘The Power of the Word of God’ (Luke 5:1-11), ‘Discovering Lord Jesus in One's Calling’ (Mark 8:34-38), and ‘The Formation of a Right and Courageous Conscience in the Light of the Word of God’ (Mark 6:14-29), followed by a Holy Eucharist Celebration. Additionally, a documentary titled ‘Don't Cry Tonj,’ produced by the South Korean government, showcased the dedicated services of Fr. John Te Sok, a Korean missionary to Tonj. The day concluded with a physical healing adoration.
Day 2: Fr Franklin D'Souza presented on ‘Forgiveness Brings Healing’ (Matthew 18:21-35), ‘Forgiveness and Eucharist’ (1 Corinthians 11:23-32), ‘Celebration of Eucharist,’ ‘Knowing the Gift of God - Holy Spirit’ (John 4:4-10), ‘Genuine Repentance Brings Healing’ (Luke 15:7, 10, 20-24), and ‘Inner Healing Adoration on Forgiveness.’
Day 3 commenced with Father Franklin D'Souza delivering a discourse on the preparation for confession, referencing Romans 1:18-32. Four priests facilitated confessions, followed by a Eucharistic celebration. Post-luncheon, the Sisters shared their personal testimonies, and the Bible Convention concluded with a follow-up message derived from Ephesians 6:10-18.
On Day 2, Participants engaged in group meditation sessions. On Day 3, during the same timeframe, the preacher guided a highly inspiring ‘letter to Jesus’ meditation.
The inaugural Bible Convention fostered a profound sense of love and enthusiasm for engaging with and contemplating the word of God, while also facilitating physical and inner healing, and enabling the Sisters to experience the anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Sr Jayashree, Sr Cleris and Sr Flencia Alphonse, from the Province, thanked the team who led the convention.