THE NATIONAL STAFF RETREAT OF THE BIBLE SOCIETY OF INDIA HELD ON SEPTEMBER 19 – 21, 2024 AT VISAKHAPATNAM, ANDHRA PRADESH
The National Staff Retreat (NSR) of the Bible Society of India (BSI) was held from September 19-22, 2024 at Sai Priya Beach resort, Visakhapatnam (Vizag), Andhra Pradesh. After a gap of seven years the retreat brought together the BSI staff from Translation Centre Shillong, 17 Auxiliaries and Central Office to foster unity, spiritual growth, and strengthen their commitment for the Bible cause. The theme for the retreat was “Ancient Words Ever True – Resounding God’s Own Heart” taken from the Retreat Theme Song “Ancient Words” written by Lynn Deshazo, one of the famous modern Christian Hymns writers from America.
In his welcome address the General Secretary of the Bible Society of India Rev. Dr. Kavito G. Zhimo profoundly reminded that the “Bible Never Changes,” “it is an Unbreakable Covenant” and “Message of Love.” Rev. Dr. Leelavathi Vemuri, President, BSI in her keynote address spoke about the significance of the “Ancient Words” to carry forth the message of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness, ensuring that God’s heart continues to resonate in the lives of all who seek Him. Rev. Dr. B. K. Pattnaik, Vice President, BSI alongside the leaders of the BSI AP Auxiliary, Vizag Branch brought greetings.
Rev. Dr. Robert Cunville, President Emeritus, United Bible Societies in his sharing of God’s Word gave an overall view of the four Gospels. He challenged the staff to recommit their lives in obedience to ‘Ancient Words’ for God’s glory. During the retreat we have eminent speakers who shared inpiring, thought provoking messages from God’s Word that gave us spiritual nourishment. We record our heartfelt thanks to Rev. Srikanth James, Pastor of the Trinity Lutheran Church in Visag, Rev. Rajesh Pakki, Pastor of the Union Chapel, Baptist Church in Visag, Rev. Dr. Joseph Prabhakar Dhayam, Professor, Gurukul Theological College, Chennai, each reflected on the theme from different perspectives.
The Telugu Enhanced Bible was released by the President and the General Secretary of the Bible Society of India.
Presentations of work from all the Auxiliaries including Translation Centre, Shillong were highlighted by the Auxiliary Secretaries and Associate Director of the Translation Centre Shillong (TCS). Special prayers were offered for the entire team of the Auxiliaries. During the group-wise meeting, the staff expressed with joyful hearts the meeting of colleagues from various parts of India with a renewed commitment to the ministry of the BSI. Bible Quiz from the four Gospels was conducted. Out of 17 offices, four were given the prizes. The Andhra Pradesh Auxiliary bagged the First prize, Central Office the Second prize and the North West Auxiliary the Third prize and the Aizawl Auxiliary was awarded the consolation prize. Cultural programme was a joyful time of fun and talents, with Auxiliaries and Central Office showcasing the diverse cultures of India.
The team visited Araku a hill station for sightseeing. It was a refreshing time. On Sunday September 22, 2024 the teams visited various denominational Churches in Vizag to share God’s Word. We want to put on record our thankful hearts to the BSI Andhra Pradesh Auxiliary with the volunteers from the local churches for their dedicated service in hosting the National Staff Retreat. The delicious Andhra Food served throughout the retreat, sponsorship from the individuals and churches and every possible care they had rendered to the whole staff of BSI resounded the genuinity of their Christian love and hospitality. We also express our great appreciation to all the Central office staff who tailored the programme, and for doing all the necessary arrangement, made sure that all participants have cherished memories, and equipped for the challenges ahead. The retreat not only facilitated spiritual and professional growth but also reinforced the vital mission and vision of the Bible Society of India in meeting the Scriptural needs of our land.