Media Release
Karnal (Haryana), Oct 26: The Bethany Sisters of the Northern Province organised a two-day Bible convention at the Bethany Provincial House here on October 25 and 26, under the inspiring theme, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). The convention was a time of intense prayer, biblical reflection, repentance, healing, and spiritual renewal, bringing participants closer to the Word of God and strengthening their faith.
Fr Franklin D’Souza, spiritual director of the Karnataka Regional Charismatic Renewal Movement and youth director for Vocation Promotion and Formation in the diocese of Shimoga, served as the principal resource person. The sessions were facilitated by Sr Diana Serrao, BS on the first day and Sr Ophilia Lobo, BS on the second day.
The convention commenced on Sunday, October 25 at 10 am with an inaugural prayer, followed by a warm welcome address by vice provincial Sr Reena D’Souza, BS and an inspiring keynote address by provincial superior Sr Arpan Carvalho, BS. At 10:30 am, Fr Franklin began the spiritual sessions with a talk entitled “Crisis in life and rediscovering Jesus in one’s faith,” drawing insights from Luke 5:1–11 and inviting participants to rediscover the Lord’s presence and guidance amid life’s challenges.
At noon, Fr Franklin celebrated the Holy Eucharist and delivered a thought-provoking homily entitled “How alive is your conscience?” based on Mark 6:13–29. He encouraged the participants to examine their conscience sincerely and remain faithful to the truth and the teachings of Christ.
The afternoon sessions began with the Divine Mercy chaplet at 2 pm, led by the sisters. Fr Franklin then delivered a session on “The Word of God and its power,” reflecting on the encounter of the disciples with the risen Lord on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35). He highlighted how the scriptures illuminate human hearts, strengthen faith, and help believers recognise the living presence of Jesus in their daily lives.
Following a brief tea break, he continued with a session entitled “Forgiveness brings healing,” based on Matthew 18:21–35. Emphasising the relationship between forgiveness, inner healing, and the Eucharist, he encouraged the participants to let go of resentment, extend mercy to others, and experience the transforming love of God. The first day concluded with Eucharistic adoration and a healing session led by Fr Franklin from 6:30 pm to 8 pm, providing an opportunity for prayer, surrender, and spiritual renewal in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament.
The second day, Monday, October 26, began at 6 am with vibrant praise and worship, followed by a guided meditation entitled “Letter to Jesus,” led by Fr Franklin. The meditation invited participants to enter into a personal conversation with the Lord, express their hearts before Him, and deepen their relationship with Jesus through prayer.
At 8:30 am, Fr Franklin conducted a session entitled “Fifteen diseases of our lives,” based on Psalm 32:1–7. He reflected on the spiritual struggles that affect human life and emphasised the importance of acknowledging one's weaknesses, seeking God's mercy, and embracing repentance as a path towards inner freedom and healing.
Later in the morning, beginning at 10:20 am, the participants gathered for confessions and the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Five priests were present to administer the sacrament of reconciliation, offering the participants an opportunity to seek God's forgiveness and experience the grace of spiritual renewal.
The convention culminated in an infilling and anointing adoration led by Fr Franklin, followed by benediction and a thanksgiving Holy Eucharist. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Sr Stella D’Souza.
The two-day Bible convention offered the participants a profound opportunity to encounter the living Word of God, reflect on their personal lives, experience the healing power of forgiveness, and renew their commitment to Christ. Rooted in scripture and strengthened through the Eucharist, prayer, and reconciliation, the convention concluded with a renewed sense of faith, hope, and dedication to their religious vocation and mission.