The Patmos Initiative: Scripture Engagement Forum 2025 – Hope for Minority Christian Communities
On September 16 – 18, the British and Foreign Bible Society (BFBS) in partnership with the United Bible Societies (UBS), and graciously hosted by the Ceylon Bible Society, brought together nearly 50 participants from across the Asia-Pacific region and the Mauritius Bible Society in Colombo. This three-day Scripture Engagement Programme was part of the ongoing global research known as The Patmos Initiative. Inspired by the Apostle John’s vision on the island of Patmos, the initiative seeks to discern how God’s Word can reach and transform lives in today’s complex and challenging world.
The Global Vision
The Patmos Initiative looks at the world through seven global contexts, each presenting its own challenges and opportunities for engaging people with the Scriptures. The Colombo consultation focused on Cluster 6, a context where Christians are a minority surrounded by diverse and often dominant religious traditions. Such as Hinduism, Islam and Buddhism.
The Colombo Experience
The sessions were more than academic deliberations. They were moments of deep sharing, prayer, and vision casting. Participants listened to stories of resilience and hope from Bible Societies working faithfully in minority settings. There was a genuine sense of solidarity that though scattered across nations, participants are united by the same calling to share the life-giving Word of God.
Practical methods were explored: from using Scripture in interfaith dialogue, to building bridges through community projects, to nurturing young believers in environments where faith is fragile.
Key Learnings
Scripture in Minority Spaces: The Bible continues to be a source of courage, healing, and identity for Christians who often feel invisible in their societies.
Power of Partnership: Working together across Bible Societies, churches, and local communities is essential to make a lasting impact.
Digital Frontiers: The consultation acknowledged the urgent need to embrace digital platforms and emerging technologies, not only to reach younger generations but also to ensure access for those isolated in remote or restricted environments.
AI Perspectives: Thought-provoking discussions explored, with much caution how artificial intelligence tools can assist in Bible translation, Scripture engagement, and contextual ministry, while also raising important ethical questions about faith, authenticity, and safeguarding the message of God’s Word.
Encouragement to Persevere: Participants left with renewed determination, knowing they are not alone but part of a global family standing with them.
A Journey of Hope
The Colombo gathering was a reminder that God’s Word cannot be silenced, even in the most challenging environments. Just as the Apostle John received the Revelation on Patmos in exile, today’s minority Christian communities continue to encounter the living Christ through the Scriptures. The Patmos Initiative is more than a research project, it is a movement of hope, equipping Bible Societies to engage hearts with Scripture in ways that bring transformation, resilience, and unity in Christ. Much communication and project sharing will continue across the globe.