EMPOWERED BY THE WORD, SERVING THE WORLD
BSI–Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship Regional Conference and Church Engagements in North East India
Guwahati | 15–17 September 2026
“Empowered by the Word, Serving the World” was more than a theme, it became the shared vision of the BSI – Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship (MJWF) Regional Conference held in Guwahati from 15–17 September 2026.
The three-day Regional Conference brought together 43 delegates from the Aizawl, Dimapur and Shillong Auxiliaries, representing the rich diversity of the North East. Organised by the Church, Public Relations and Resource Mobilisation Department (CPRRMD), Bible Society of India, in collaboration with the Aizawl, Dimapur and Shillong Auxiliaries, the conference was hosted by the Shillong Auxiliary at Don Bosco Institute, Kharghuli, Guwahati.
Women United by the Word
Inspired by the faith and determination of Mary Jones, whose longing to possess a Bible became an enduring inspiration for the Bible movement, the Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship seeks to encourage women to value, engage with and share God’s Word. The name Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship was adopted by BSI in 2019 as a common identity for women involved in Bible ministry across the Auxiliaries.
The Guwahati gathering provided a vibrant platform for worship, Bible reflection, prayer, fellowship, testimonies, cultural sharing and interactive discussions. Particular attention was given to women’s leadership, Bible distribution, Scripture engagement, fundraising, volunteer mobilisation, church relations and reaching children, families and communities with God’s Word.
The keynote address by Rev. Lyndan Syiem, Bible studies led by Dr. Wandahilin Kharlukhi and Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi, and the sharing of experiences by the three Auxiliary Secretaries – Rev. Remlalfaka, Rev. VTS Langstieh and Rev. Dr. Yiepetso Wezah – provided opportunities for learning and reflection.
Rev. Shashikala Alva, Senior Auxiliary Secretary, Karnataka Auxiliary, enriched the programme through her testimony and icebreaking. The cultural evening, featuring songs and dances from the delegates, celebrated the vibrant diversity of the North East while strengthening the bonds of fellowship. Each day, delegates from the three Auxiliaries led the devotion through singing, Bible reading and prayer, creating a meaningful platform for spiritual engagement with the Word of God.
Learning from One Another
One of the significant strengths of the conference was the willingness of the three Auxiliaries to learn from one another and share their experiences and ministry practices. This spirit of mutual learning was reflected in the Statement and Action Plan jointly developed by the delegates. The participants committed themselves to deepening their engagement with Scripture, strengthening prayer and fellowship, encouraging volunteering and resource mobilisation, building stronger relationships with churches and communities, and intentionally developing women leaders for Bible ministry.
The Action Plan includes strengthening MJWF leadership, organising women’s prayer meetings and Bible studies, conducting BSI awareness and church-engagement programmes, mobilising volunteers and fundraising, and creating opportunities for the three Auxiliaries to regularly share their experiences.
For the 2026–2029 Triennium, the longer-term vision includes developing women’s leadership and mentoring programmes, expanding MJWF groups across BSI branches, building a strong volunteer network, strengthening resource mobilisation, engaging younger women in leadership, and holding a North East Regional MJWF gathering at least once during the Triennium.
The simple framework emerging from the conference captures the spirit of the movement:
PRAY → ENGAGE → SERVE → GIVE → LEAD → SHARE
FROM CONFERENCE TO CONGREGATIONS: MARY JONES WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP IN AIZAWL
Following the Guwahati conference, the CPRRMD team – Dr. Chhungi, Rev Shashikala and Mrs Esther Krupa travelled to Aizawl, Mizoram, for three days of fellowship, staff interaction and church engagement from 18 – 20 September 2026. The visit became a meaningful extension of the Regional Conference, strengthening the connection between BSI, the Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship and local churches. The Aizawl Auxiliary – MJWF arranged visits to churches where greetings were shared, testimonies were given and the Word of God was preached.
Strengthening Church Relations
On Friday, the team met the staff of the Aizawl Auxiliary and toured the Bible House, gaining an opportunity to interact with staff and learn more about the ongoing ministry. The evening concluded with a cottage prayer meeting at Dawrpui Vengthar organised by the Presbyterian Church as part of September Home Crusade. On Saturday, the team attended the service at Dawrpui Vengthar Presbyterian Church, where Rev. Shashikala Alva shared greetings and her personal testimony of transformation.
Sunday brought two further opportunities for church engagement. At Tuikual Presbyterian Church, Rev. Shashikala shared Greetings and her touching testimony. The congregation has a special connection with BSI, having been the single highest contributor in the Aizawl Auxiliary in 2019.
The evening service at Ramhlun North Presbyterian Church was particularly memorable. The church was filled to capacity, with worshippers seated in the corridors and outside the premises. Children’s and Senior Sunday School choirs added joy to the worship. Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi preached the Word, while Rev. Shashikala shared greetings and pronounced the Benediction. The church has a strong connection with BSI, with its pastor serving as President of the Ramhlun North–2 Branch, the President of the Aizawl Auxiliary is also a local member of this Church, and many church elders and members actively serving as BSI volunteers.
A Remarkable Testimony of Love for Scripture
One especially inspiring encounter was with Mrs. Lalthianghlimi, a local church member who has handwritten the complete Bible 13 times during the 2023–2026 Triennium. Her extraordinary commitment reflects deep love for God’s Word, discipline, perseverance and personal devotion. While the report notes that there are no verified comparative records from other Bible Societies or countries to establish an official world record, her achievement may represent one of the highest known accomplishments of its kind. Her handwritten Scriptures stand as a remarkable testimony to the transforming place of God’s Word in the life of a believer.
Women at the Heart of Bible Ministry
Throughout the Aizawl visit, MJWF leaders accompanied the team and actively participated in the church engagements. Their presence demonstrated the growing role of women in strengthening Bible ministry at the grassroots level. Fellowship and discussion sessions after the services also provided opportunities to share about BSI’s ministry and the activities of the Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship.
The six days in Guwahati and Aizawl became a journey of faith, fellowship, learning, Scripture engagement and renewed commitment. The Regional Conference gave women a shared vision and practical action plan, while the Aizawl engagements carried that vision directly into churches and communities.
The experience reaffirmed that when women are rooted in the Word, united in fellowship and willing to serve, they can become powerful partners in the mission of making the Scriptures available, accessible and relevant to all.
(photos)
By Rev Remlalfaka, Auxiliary Secretay, Aizawl Auxiliary
STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIP IN BIBLE MISSION
Rev. Vijay Prasanna Issac, General Secretary of the Friends Missionary Prayer Band (FMPB), visited the William Carey Centre of the Bible Society of India (BSI), Bengaluru, in connection with the proposed signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to continue the partnership between BSI and FMPB in Bible Mission. During the morning devotion, Rev. Vijay Prasanna Issac shared God’s Word from 2 Kings 5, reflecting on Gehazi and the spiritual consequences of misplaced priorities, greed and failure to discern God’s purposes. His message encouraged the staff to remain faithful to God’s calling and mission.
With 35 years of experience in cross-cultural missions, discipleship, leadership development and mission mobilisation, Rev. Vijay Prasanna Issac brings rich experience to the Church’s mission. The visit reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between BSI and FMPB and their shared commitment to making God’s Word available and strengthening Bible engagement in mission contexts. (two photos)
By Mr. Caleb Martin Hilton, Associate Director, Media, Communication & Information Technology Department
KERALA AUXILIARY
Youth Scripture Engagement Programme
The Bible Society of India, Kerala Auxiliary, conducted the Youth Scripture Engagement Programme, comprising the Bible Quiz, Bible Reading, and Elocution Competitions, at Mar Elia Cathedral, Kottayam, on 4 September 2026. The meeting was presided over by the Auxiliary Secretary. The inaugural address was delivered by the former Auxiliary Secretary, Rev. Dr. Samuel T. Varghese. The programme was graced by the presence and greetings of Rev. Fr. Mebin Thomas, Vicar, St. Thomas Orthodox Church; Rev. Basil George, St. Thomas Evangelical Church, Kottayam; Dr. Sabu T. Thomas, Auxiliary Treasurer; Dr. Josemon George, National Working Committee Member; Adv. P. V. Cherian & Er. John Minu Mathew, Auxiliary Committee Members; Er. Suja Annie Mathew, Central Council Member; Mr. Varghese P. Jacob and Mrs. Babita Santhosh, Youth Sub-Committee Members; along with other church leaders and branch representatives.
Bible Quiz – Winners
First Prize: Sanju Sajan & Sajin Sam – Kundara Branch
Second Prize: Liya Thankachan, Laya Thankachan & Justina James – Kundara Branch
Third Prize: Joshua Zachariah Mathew, Gladis P. Joseph & Priscilla Susie Abraham – Thiruvalla Town Branch
Bible Reading Competition Winners–
First Prize: Joanna Silju Varghese – Thiruvalla Town Branch
Second Prize: Rhesa Angel Renish – Thiruvankulam Branch
Third Prize: Noyel P. John – Pallom Branch
Elocution Competition – Winners
First Prize: Rhesa Angel Renish – Thiruvankulam Branch
Second Prize: Jibin Oommen Josey – Thiruvalla West Branch
Third Prize: Savio Sunil – Thiruvalla Town Branch
Special Jury Award for Overall Performance: Rhesa Angel Renish – Thiruvankulam Branch
The cash prize for the Elocution Competition was awarded in memory of Y. Mathew, father of Er. John Minu Mathew. The Bible Quiz cash prize was awarded in memory of Mrs. Chellamma Varghese Pookoyikkal, mother of Rev. Dr. Samuel T. Varghese. The Bible Reading Competition cash prize was awarded in memory of P. C. Varghese Puthenpurakal, father of Adv. P. V. Cherian. As a mark of appreciation and encouragement, all winners and participants received an Auxiliary Certificate, a memento, and a gift Bible. We deeply appreciate the dedication and enthusiastic participation of all the young people, the encouragement and support of their parents, and the tireless efforts of our branch leaders and all other leaders who contributed to the success of this programme. We also express our sincere gratitude to the Vicar and members of Mar Elia Cathedral, Kottayam, for their continued commitment and for providing the necessary facilities for this programme every year.
Beyond Borders Conference 2026 at Thiruvalla & Perumbavoor:
The Bible Society of India – Kerala Auxiliary, in collaboration with New Life Computer Institute (NLCI) and Faith Comes By Hearing (FCBH), held a historic initiative on 7th & 8th September 2026 at St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India, Manjadi, Thiruvalla and All Saints CSI Church, Perumbavoor respectively.
The Beyond Borders Conference 2026 was a special programme designed to equip churches, leaders, pastors, missionaries, and those engaged in ministry among migrant and guest-worker communities across Kerala. It was a significant initiative to strengthen the Church’s mission and ministry among people from different linguistic, cultural, and social backgrounds. The meeting was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Chacko, Presiding Bishop of STECI and Auxiliary Committee Member, and the programme was inaugurated by Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Auxiliary President of the Bible Society of India – Kerala Auxiliary at Thiruvalla. His Grace Mathews Mor Aprem Metropolitan, Auxiliary Committee Member and Bishop of the Angamaly Diocese of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church, inaugurated the conference at Perumbavoor. Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal, Auxiliary Secretary of the Kerala Auxiliary, delivered the introductory note and shared the vision and purpose of the programme. Mr. Anil George of NLCI led the worship, setting the tone for the gathering through worship and prayer. The sessions were led by Mr. Caleb Martin Hilton, Associate Director, BSI MC & IT; Mr. DSeq Sequeira, South Asia Area Director, Faith Comes By Hearing; Pr. Meshach Arun, South India Coordinator, Faith Comes By Hearing; Mr. Joshy Kurian, Digital Engagement Coordinator – Asia, Faith Comes By Hearing; Evg. Shibu Kurian, Kerala Cluster Manager, New Life Computer Institute; and Rev. Shibu Mathew, Migrant Ministry Coordinator, Indian Evangelical Mission. Their valuable contributions helped the participants understand the opportunities, challenges, and possibilities of reaching migrant and guest-worker communities through Scripture, digital engagement, technology, and intentional ministry. Special greetings were offered by Rev. Daniel Varghese Achen, Sabha Secretary of the Mar Thoma Church; Rev. Saji Mathew, Sabha Secretary of STECI; and Dr. Sabu T. Thomas, Auxiliary Treasurer of the Bible Society of India – Kerala Auxiliary. We sincerely appreciate all the participants, including clergy, pastors, missionaries, church leaders, and those actively involved in ministry among migrant and guest-worker communities, whose presence and participation greatly blessed the programme. We are especially grateful for the wholehearted support and cooperation of St. Thomas Evangelical Church of India and all its officials for providing the venue and facilities for this important gathering. We also express our sincere appreciation to Mr. Philip Daniel, Regional Coordinator, Adv. P. V. Cherian, Auxiliary Committee Member, Mr. Soju S. Koshy, Perumbavoor Branch Secretary, Mr. George Philip, and Mr. Elson Paul Distribution Officers of BSI, for their valuable coordination, support, and efforts in making the programme a meaningful and successful one. The Beyond Borders Conference 2026 was truly a call for unity beyond borders to reach everyone with the Gospel. In a changing world where people from different regions, languages, cultures, and nations are living and working together, the Church is called to cross every boundary and make the Word of God available to all. Let us continue to stand together in unity, strengthen our partnerships, and move forward with renewed commitment to reach the unreached and share the transforming Word of God with every community.
New Branch Formation – Kadammannitta Branch
We are delighted to announce the formation of the Kadammanitta Branch, the 163rd Branch of the Bible Society of India – Kerala Auxiliary. The inaugural meeting was held on 15 September 2026 at Kadammanitta Mar Thoma Church. The meeting was presided over by Church Vicar, Rev. Gigi V. Mathew, and the Auxiliary Secretary formally inaugurated the new branch. Clergy, pastors, and other dignitaries graced the occasion with their esteemed presence and extended their greetings and blessings to the newly formed branch. During the meeting, the new office bearers were elected, and a Branch Committee representing various churches in the area was formed. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Kadammanitta Branch as it begins this new chapter of ministry and service in partnership with the Bible Society of India. We also sincerely appreciate the dedicated efforts of Mr. Jacob Varghese, Regional Coordinator, Mr. Jose Thomas, and Mr. Thomas Mathew, whose hard work, commitment, and cooperation were instrumental in the formation of this new branch. May the Lord continue to bless this new beginning and strengthen every member of the Kadammanitta Branch as we work together in the mission of sharing the unchanging Word of God with the world.
By Rev. Jacob Antony Koodathinkal, Auxiliary Secretary, Kerala Auxiliary
RANCHI AUXILIARY
Kharia New Testament With Psalms And Proverbs Reaches Final Proofreading Stage
The Bible Society of India is pleased to share the completion of the final proofreading of the Kharia New Testament, with Psalms and Proverbs, marking an important milestone in the journey towards its publication. The final proofreading was carried out from 7–10 September 2026 at the BSI Bible House, Ranchi, under the guidance and leadership of Rev. Dr. N. Subramani, Assistant Director – Translation, and Bishop Yakub Soreng. Working together, they carefully reviewed the dummies and signed each page for approval in accordance with BSI requirements.
On 9 September, the Ranchi Auxiliary also met with members of the Kharia Samiti Committee, who expressed their gratitude to BSI and the Ranchi Auxiliary for their dedicated service in making the Scriptures available to the Kharia-speaking community. The total requirement is 5,000 copies, and the Kharia New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs is expected to be released in the last week of December 2026 or the first week of January 2027. This milestone reflects BSI’s continuing commitment to making God’s Word available and accessible in the languages of India’s diverse communities.
The Kharia are an indigenous Adivasi community of Jharkhand with a distinct language and rich cultural heritage. Predominantly found in districts such as Simdega, Gumla and Ranchi, the Kharia are also represented in neighbouring states. For the Kharia Christian community, the publication of the New Testament with Psalms and Proverbs in their own language is an important milestone in making God’s Word accessible and strengthening Scripture engagement.
Rekindling Youth Engagement in Jamshedpur
After a long gap, the Bible Society of India’s Ranchi Auxiliary organised a one-day programme for youth and adults on 19 September 2026 at Emmanuel Baptist Church, Jamshedpur. The programme brought together around 150 participants, creating a meaningful opportunity for fellowship, learning and engagement with the Bible. The programme was inaugurated by Rev. Arun Barwa, Parish Priest of St George’s Church, Bistupur. Rev. Eliazar Topno, Parish Priest of Emmanuel Baptist Church, and Mr. Someshwar Prasad, Manager – Accounts, led the sessions. The Auxiliary Secretary also introduced the participants to the Vision and Mission of the Bible Society of India.
As part of the Scripture Engagement initiative, Identity-Identified Bibles and Hindi Semi-Compact Bibles were distributed to the participants, encouraging them to engage more deeply with God’s Word. The programme bore encouraging fruit. Significantly, two young people willingly expressed their desire to serve as volunteers in Bible ministry. This response is a testimony to the value of renewed engagement with young people and the continuing impact of God’s Word. With God’s grace and the dedicated support of the Auxiliary staff, the programme was successfully conducted, marking a significant step towards strengthening Bible ministry and volunteer engagement in Jamshedpur.
By Rev. Neelam Tigga, Auxiliary Secretary, Ranchi Auxiliary