214th BSI Formation Day – Mary Jones Public Lecture
The Bible Society of India joyfully celebrated its 214th Formation Day – Mary Jones Public Lecture on February 21, 2025 with great reverence and enthusiasm at the Central Office in Bangalore and across all Auxiliaries in India. This significant day marked over two centuries of dedicated service in translating, publishing, and distributing the Holy Scriptures to people of all languages and communities in India.
The staff started the day with Thanksgiving service in the morning at 9:00 am in the Hall Road office, with a time of praise, prayer, testimonies of gratitude and acknowledging God’s continued faithfulness in the mission of spreading God’s Holy Word across India. The General Secretary Rev Kavito G. Zhimo delivered an inspiring message, highlighting the rich history and impact of BSI, emphasizing the importance of Bible translation, distribution, and engagement in transforming lives. Special prayers were offered for BSI’s leadership, staff, volunteers, and supporters, thanking God for their commitment and seeking His guidance for the future.
In the afternoon, the Bible Society of India – Central Office, in collaboration with the Karnataka Auxiliary, hosted this event at St. Andrew’s Church (CSI) Community Hall on February 21, 2025, centered on the theme “The Journey of Bible Translation.” The program commenced with a Fellowship Tea at 3:30 p.m., followed by a session expertly facilitated by Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi. The General Secretary of BSI, Rev. Dr. Kavito G. Zhimo welcomed the gathering and introduced the key speaker, Rev. Dr. Dexter S. Maben, and respondent, Rev. Dr. Subramani N. The event featured greetings and prayers by Very Rev. Msgr. S. Jayanathan, the Vicar General of the Bangalore Archdiocese.
Rev. Dr. Dexter Maben delivered an engaging lecture tracing the Bible translation from ancient Manuscripts to this day with specific reference made to the Kannada Bible Translation, followed by an insightful response from Rev. Dr. Subramani N on translation projects. Rev. Shashikala Alva led a dynamic discussion, with audience participation through thought-provoking questions on the significance of Bible translation touching on the transformative and justice issues that the Bible translations bring into human lives. The event concluded with a prayer, and a benediction by Rev. Dr. Kavito G. Zhimo, marking a meaningful and impactful gathering.
Nationwide Observances:
Across India, all BSI Auxiliaries commemorated this historic day with seminars on Bible translation, and outreach initiatives, emphasizing the collective responsibility of Churches in spreading God’s Word. A key highlight in several Auxiliaries was the distribution of free Bibles to marginalized communities, reaffirming BSI’s commitment to making God’s Word accessible to everyone, irrespective of social or economic background.
The Aizawl Auxiliary hosted the event at Khatla Presbyterian Church Hall on February 21, 2025. The Auxiliary President Rev. Dr. Vanlalnghaka Ralte chaired the session. Mrs. C. Zothankimi led the gathering with Bible reading and prayer, followed by a presentation on ‘BSI Ministry’ by Rev. Remlalfaka, the Auxiliary Secretary. A discussion session was moderated by Elder Denghmingthanga, Coordinator of the CPRRM Sub-committee of the Aizawl Auxiliary and concluded the programme with prayer. The event saw a great and enthusiastic participation from BSI members and Aizawl Auxiliary committees.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands held the event at The Indian Pentecostal Church of God, Port Blair, on February 23, 2025. Chaired by Rev. T. Selvaraj, the event featured a welcome address, prayer, and worship, followed by a keynote speech by Rev. Dr. Raja Wilson on the theme “BSI ministry, God’s faithfulness, and the legacy of Mary Jones”. A total of 103 Bibles were distributed in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English. Rev. Joseph Raj highlighted BSI’s Bible translation work and encouraged Churches to observe Bible Sunday. The program concluded with prayers, a vote of thanks, and a benediction, followed by refreshments. The lecture strengthened BSI’s mission and inspired future ministry efforts.
The Bible Society of India, Calcutta Auxiliary joyfully celebrated its 214th Foundation Day on February 21, 2025, at Bible House, Kolkata. The event was attended by esteemed guests, committee members, Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship members, youth, staff, and well-wishers. The program began at 11:00 AM with an opening prayer by Rev. Martin Pakhare, followed by spiritual hymns led by Mr. Indradip Sarkar. Rev. Soma Bhatkar warmly welcomed the attendees, and special greetings were shared by various committee members, highlighting the impact of Bible translation and distribution. The Mary Jones Women’s Committee presented a special song, adding a worshipful touch.
The main message, delivered by Rev. Samuel Davis, recounted Mary Jones and her Bible, emphasizing the importance of making Scripture accessible. Rev. Akash Mondal gave a presentation on the mission and work of BSI, detailing its translation and distribution efforts. The congregation participated in an offertory hymn, followed by a closing prayer and benediction from Rev. Tapash Mondal. The celebration concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony and tea fellowship, marking a joyful and blessed occasion that reaffirmed commitment to spreading God’s Word.
The BSI, Jabalpur Auxiliary observed the BSI Formation Day – Mary Jones Public Lecture on February 21, 2025, at Bible House, Jabalpur. Rev. Vishal Solomon from Full Gospel Church delivered a sermon on “Reading the Word of God as Worship”, focusing on Luke 1:30-35 and 1 Kings 18:41-46. He highlighted Mary’s acceptance of God’s call as a symbol of humankind’s redemption and Elijah’s prayer for rain as a sign of God’s blessings. He encouraged Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship members to devoutly read and live by the Word of God. The prayer service was a blessed experience, concluding with thanksgiving for BSI’s 214-year journey.
The BSI, Odisha Auxiliary spent time with an opening prayer and reflection on God’s goodness led by Rev. Brajendra Kumar Kauri, Secretary of BSI Odisha Auxiliary, led the session and shared a message from Isaiah 55:10-11 and 2 Timothy 3:16-17, emphasizing the impact of BSI’s work. The gathering included a special time of intercessory prayer, remembering Mary Jones and her legacy. The event concluded with praise and thanksgiving to God for a blessed time of fellowship.
The Tamil Nadu Auxiliary celebrated BSI’s 214th Foundation Day with the theme “Celebrating the Everlasting Word.” A Thanksgiving Service was held at CSI Lite Transfiguration Chapel on February 21, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, marking a meaningful time of worship and gratitude.
The Telangana Auxiliary hosted a lecture on “Divinity and Dignity – A Biblical Reflection on Disability” on February 21, 2025, at Bible House, Secunderabad, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM. Neredimalli Annavarm, Assistant Professor of Sociology, University of Hyderabad, was the keynote speaker. The lecture focused on BSI’s impact on the visually impaired community, highlighting the role of Braille and Audio Bibles in strengthening their faith and spirituality.
To mark the occasion, the Bombay Auxiliary staff had a prayer and Bible Study reflecting on the goodness of God in the life and ministry of the BSI
To mark BSI’s 214th Formation Day, the Dimapur Auxiliary released the Liangmai Masanbo Bible (Second Edition) on February 15, 2025, at Liangmai Baptist Church, Dimapur. Rev. Dr. Alungbou Newmai, Secretary of Liangmai Christian Literature Society (LCLS), Manipur & Nagaland, chaired the event. The history of Liangmai Bible translation was highlighted, tracing its journey from the formation of the Christian Literature Committee in 1955 to the release of the first Liangmai Bible in 2001, followed by a revised edition in 2015. After a request for further revision in 2019, the second edition was completed and released in 2025.
Mrs. Meyijungla from BSI Shillong Translation Centre appreciated the efforts of the Chief Editor, Review Committee, and supporters, urging continued support for Bible translation. Rev. Dr. Yiepetso Wezah, BSI Dimapur Auxiliary Secretary, officially released the Bible, encouraging believers to read and meditate on God’s Word. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Rev. Kitanwi Chewang, Chairman of LCLS, and a benediction by Rev. Kamwang Rentta, Former Secretary of LCLS, Manipur & Nagaland. The celebration reaffirmed the unity and dedication of Liangmai Christians in preserving God’s Word in their heart language.
In conclusion, the 214th Formation Day of the Bible Society of India was a testament to God’s faithfulness and the unwavering commitment of BSI in spreading the Word of God. The Mary Jones Public Lecture and nationwide celebrations reinforced the Society’s mission of serving the Church in India by providing the Bible in different languages and formats. The event inspired renewed dedication among all participants to carry forward this divine calling.
As BSI steps into another year of its journey, it remains committed to its mission of bringing the Bible to every home and heart in India, continuing the legacy of Mary Jones and all those who have labored for the cause of the Scriptures.
To God be the Glory!