A Light in Her Hands: A Story of Little Meera
A Nine-year-old girl Meera sat on the front step of her small house, watching the evening sky turn gold. The Advent season had begun in her church, and every week her Sunday School teacher spoke about preparing our hearts to welcome Jesus. Meera tried her best, she helped her mother sweep the yard, she sang hymns softly while doing chores, and she even tried to be patient with her little brother.
But there was one prayer she kept close to her heart:
“Lord Jesus, I want to know You more. I wish I had a Bible of my own.”
Her family could not afford one, and she had been borrowing the old, faded church copy for months. She never complained, but she hoped – quietly, faithfully.
One cool and breezy November afternoon, the Bible Society of India held a small Scripture distribution event in her village church. People gathered with curiosity, children ran around the courtyard, and colourful Bibles were arranged neatly on a wooden table. Meera stood at a distance, her eyes fixed on a bright, sky-blue children’s Bible with a picture of Jesus holding children.
She whispered again, “Lord… maybe someday.”
Just then, Rev. Thomas, the pastor, called her name.
“Meera, come here,” he said kindly. “We have something for you.”
In that moment, everything became quiet in Meera’s heart. She stepped forward slowly, her hands trembling slightly. The pastor picked up the blue Bible—the very one she had been looking at—and placed it gently into her hands.
“This is a gift from the Bible Society of India,” he said. “May God’s Word be your light.”
Meera clutched the Bible to her chest. It felt warm, almost alive. The gold-edged pages shimmered in the soft sunlight as she opened it for the first time. Her eyes filled with tears—not of sadness, but of a joy so pure that even the breeze seemed to pause and listen.
Walking home, she held the Bible close, as if carrying a treasure that could never be replaced. Everything around her looked different—the trees, the dusty path, even the sky. She felt as though Jesus Himself was walking beside her, smiling at her joy.
That night, Meera placed the Bible under her pillow. She ran her tiny fingers over the cover and whispered a prayer she would never forget:
“Jesus, thank You for coming into the world. And thank You for coming into my heart in this beautiful way.”
From that day on, every page she read felt like another lantern lit on her path—guiding her, comforting her, and preparing her to welcome Christ not just at Christmas, but every single day.
For Meera, the gift of the Bible was more than a book.
It was the beginning of a lifelong journey with Jesus—
a journey illuminated by the love and ministry of the Bible Society of India.
As we enter the Advent season of 2025, we once again step into a sacred time of expectation, hope, and deep reflection. Advent invites us to pause from the hurried rhythm of life and prepare our hearts to welcome the greatest gift the world has ever known that is Jesus Christ, the Light who shines in our darkness.
This holy season gently calls us to reflect on our own readiness. Are our hearts open to receive God’s peace? Are our homes filled with joy? Are our lives marked by love for one another? Advent is not merely a countdown to Christmas; it is a spiritual journey that leads us from longing to fulfillment, from waiting to wonder, from promise to praise.
As we look back on the year 2025, we are grateful for God’s unfailing guidance and abundant blessings. Through seasons of challenge and moments of grace, the Lord has walked with us. As individuals, families, churches, and as the Bible Society of India family, we have experienced God’s faithfulness every step of the way. For this, we lift our hearts in thanksgiving.
May this Advent season renew our commitment to carry God’s Word into every corner of our nation. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of our Saviour, may we also prepare room for Christ in our daily lives through acts of kindness, reconciliation, generosity, and love.
Let us journey through Advent with anticipation and humility, confident that Emmanuel, God with us continues to dwell among God’s people. May God’s peace, joy and love quiet our fears, strengthen our spirits, and move us to serve one another with compassion and bring the greatest Joy to many children
Wishing you a blessed Advent filled with hope, peace, joy, and love as we prepare our hearts for Christmas like little Meera.
By Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi
A/D Church, Public Relations and Resource Mobilisation
KERALA AUXILIARY
Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal, Auxiliary Secretary
NEW BRANCH FORMATION
BSI Chathannoor Branch
We are pleased to announce the formation of the Chathannoor Branch, the 158th branch under the Kollam Central Region of the BSI Kerala Auxiliary. The inaugural meeting was held on 22 November 2025 at Christose Mar Thoma Church, Chathannoor, presided over by the Vicar, Rev. Johnson Philip. The Auxiliary Secretary formally inaugurated the branch. Clergy, pastors, and dignitaries attended the gathering and offered their greetings. The elected office bearers are: President – Rev. Johnson Philip, Secretary – Mr. C. O. John, Treasurer – Capt. Samkutty George.
BSI Pooyappally Branch
We are also delighted to announce the formation of the Pooyappally Branch, the 159th branch under the Kollam Central Region. The inaugural meeting was held on 22 November 2025 at St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Pooyappally, presided over by Rev. M. M. John, the Vicar. The Auxiliary Secretary inaugurated the branch, with clergy, pastors, and dignitaries in attendance. The elected office bearers are: President – Rev. M. M. John, Secretary – Mr. Saju B., Treasurer – Mr. Babu Mayanoor.
We express our sincere appreciation to Mr. K. G. Thomas, Regional Coordinator, and all the dedicated leaders who worked tirelessly to make the formation of these two new branches possible.
AUXILIARY YOUTH BIBLE QUIZ & ELOCUTION COMPETITION
The Bible Society of India, Kerala Auxiliary, conducted the Bible Quiz and Elocution Competition as part of the Scripture Engagement Programme for youths at Mar Elia Cathedral, Kottayam, on 11th October 2025. The meeting was presided over by the Auxiliary Secretary, and former Auxiliary Secretary, Rev. Dr. Samuel T. Varghese delivered the Inaugural Address. Rev. Fr. Yuhanon K. Baby, Mar Elia Cathedral Vicar, Auxiliary Treasurer, Dr. Sabu T. Thomas, Quiz Master, Pr. Christopher Varghese, along with Auxiliary and Youth Committee members, Church leaders, and Branch representatives, graced the occasion with their presence and support. Bible Quiz Winners: Ist Prize: Ann B. John, Ananya B. John (Kundara Branch), IInd Prize: Sanju Sajan, Naveen L., Sharon K. (Kundara Branch), IIIrd Prize: Joanna Silju, Joshua Zachariah, Priscilla Susy Abraham (Thiruvalla Town Branch). Elocution Winners: Ist Prize: Rhesa Angel Renish (Thiruvankulam Branch), IInd Prize: Gladis P. Joseph (Thiruvalla Town Branch), IIIrd Prize: Gisna R. (Elappara Branch).
Cash prizes for the Elocution Competition were awarded in memory of Y. Mathew, and for the Bible Quiz in memory of Mrs. Chellamma Varghese Pookoyikkal. As a mark of appreciation, all winners and participants received an Auxiliary Certificate, a memento, and a gift Bible. We deeply appreciate the dedication of all participants, the encouragement of parents, and the tireless efforts of branch leaders. Special recognition is given to the effective leadership of Er. John Minu Mathew, Adv. P. V. Cherian, Er. Suja Annie Mathew, Mr. Varghese P. Jacob, Mr. Philip Daniel, Mr. Jacob P. Cherian, and all other leaders who contributed to the success of this event.
BRANCH OFFICIALS RETREAT 2025
The Bible Society of India, Kerala Auxiliary Branch Officials’ Retreat was held on November 7–8, 2025, at the Believers Eastern Church Headquarters, Thiruvalla. The inaugural session was chaired by Rt. Rev. V. S. Francis, Auxiliary Vice President, and inaugurated by the Auxiliary President, Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, who shared an inspiring message based on Isaiah 55:10, 11. As part of the 70th Anniversary (Saptathi Jubilee) celebrations, the retreat centered on the theme: “Sowing the Word, Transforming Generations – 70 Years of God’s Faithfulness.” The theme presentation was delivered by H. H. Moran Mor Dr. Samuel Theophilus Metropolitan, Head of the Believers Eastern Church. Sessions were led by Rt. Rev. Mathews Mar Seraphim Episcopa (Adoor Diocese, Mar Thoma Church), Rt. Rev. Kurian Peter (Bishop, CSI Cochin Diocese), Rev. Dr. Along Jamir (Translation Director, Bible Society of India), Rev. Fr. Dr. Daniel Johnson, Rev. Fr. Sijo Panthapallil, Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal, Dr. Sabu T. Thomas, Dr. Saji Kumar K. P., Adv. P. V. Cherian, and Chev. Dr. Koshy M. George. The closing session and dedication service were led by the Auxiliary President. The St. Thomas Cathedral Choir of the Believers Church led the singing sessions & worship. Over 270 delegates, including clergy and pastors from various branches across Kerala, took part in this blessed two-day gathering.
CPRRM PROGRAMME WITH THE AIZAWL AUXILIARY
Youth Leaders Gathering
The Aizawl Auxiliary organised a Youth Retreat for their Youth Leaders and the BESY Choir on the evening of November 6 at Murray Resort, near Aizawl. It was a joy and privilege for me to join this meaningful gathering and to interact with the Youth Leaders and members of the BESY Choir.
Fellowship with Branch Leaders of Lunglei North and South
A special fellowship with the BSI Branch Leaders of Lunglei North and Lunglei South was held at Ramthar Baptist Church on November 7, 2025. The interaction, exchange of insights, and sharing of experiences greatly strengthened our united commitment to advancing the BSI ministry across the Lunglei District
Church Services in Lunglei:
I thank God and the Churches who warmly opened their doors for the BSI ministry. It was a blessing to share God’s Word and speak about the ministry of the Bible Society at Ramzotlang Baptist Church, Serkawn, Lunglei, during the Sunday morning service, and at Farm Veng Baptist Church, Lunglei, during the evening service on November 9, 2025 both services specially dedicated to the BSI ministry.
The two Lunglei Branches also formed their own BSI choirs, who beautifully rendered songs in both the morning and evening services. Their dedication and talent were truly inspiring. At Farm Veng Church, Esther Hnamte, the well-known young singer with a powerful voice, presented two special songs. We thank God for her willingness to minister through music for the BSI on that day. May God continue to bless and use her gift for His glory.
Church Services in Aizawl
I also express my sincere gratitude to Ramhlun Vengthar Presbyterian Church, Aizawl, for inviting me to preach the Word and share about the BSI ministry during their Sunday afternoon service on November 16, and to Central Baptist Church, Aizawl, for the opportunity to preach at their evening service dedicated to the BSI ministry.
Inauguration of the Bible House, Aizawl Auxiliary
It was a historic and sacred moment to witness the inauguration of the new Bible House of the Aizawl Auxiliary. This Bible House stands as a beacon of hope, light, and love that flows from God’s Word. It reflects the unwavering commitment of the Aizawl Auxiliary, the BSI Central Office, and the wider Christian community. We thank God for God’s Word, the source of life, revealed to us through the Holy Scriptures.
The programme commenced at 10:30 AM. The new Bible House was officially inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Mizoram, Elder Lalduhoma. This was followed by the unveiling of the commemorative plaque by Rev. Dr. Leelavathi Vemuri, BSI President.
The celebration continued in the BSI Hall with an inspiring opening presentation by the BESY Choir. The opening Scripture reading was done by Mr. Deepak George Pothan, the BSI Treasurer. Rev. Dr. Vanlalnghaka Ralte, President of the Aizawl Auxiliary, delivered the welcome address, after which Mr. B. John Stephen presented the Bible House Technical Report. Rev. Dr. Kavito G. Zhimo dedicated the Bible House to God in prayer.
This was followed by the Translation Project Report, presented by Elder Vanlaltlana, leading to the official release of the Mizo Revised Version (New Testament and Psalms), Diglot with English Standard Version, which was made available for the public. The first Aizawl Auxiliary Secretary Rev Ronghinglova was felicitated by the General Secretary with a Shawl and a BSI Memento. Rev. Remlalfaka, Auxiliary Secretary, delivered the vote of thanks, and Rev. Dr. Bijaya Kumar Pattnaik concluded the service with the benediction.
It was a blessing to meet dedicated friends, well-wishers, church leaders, and colleagues from both the Central Office and the Aizawl Auxiliary. As part of the Aizawl visit, the Auxiliary also organised a day outing for our BSI Board Members, Executive Members, and IBSTA members to various tourist destinations, including Falkawn – the Living Museum, Lalsavunga Park, and Aizawl Peak. It was a refreshing and enriching experience, offering a wonderful glimpse of the rich Mizo culture beautifully intertwined with the scenic beauty of the land. We thank God for this memorable time of fellowship and joy.
The visit to the Presbyterian Church leaders at the Mizoram Synod Office, Mission Veng, Aizawl, was especially meaningful. They reaffirmed their strong support and continuous commitment to the BSI ministry. Similarly, the meetings with church leaders, supporters, volunteers, well-wishers, friends and families in both Lunglei and Aizawl were deeply encouraging and uplifting.
May God richly bless the Churches and the Christian community of the Aizawl Auxiliary for their steadfast love, generous support, and partnership in the ministry of the Bible Society of India.