Faith in Families: The Power of Bible Sharing in Northern India
In the northern state of Madhya Pradesh, faith is a vibrant force within families. Sister Rita George Thykootam, from the Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ (PHJC), shares the inspiring story of how a simple project of Bible sharing has transformed the Diocese of Indore.
By: Sr. Rita George Thykootam, PHJC
Before the initiation of the Bible sharing project, families in the Dhar Parish of the Diocese of Indore used to gather for prayers at the parish alongside the PHJC sisters. However, these prayers often felt incomplete, lacking in the active presence of the Word of God.
The religious sisters recognized this gap and encouraged families to engage in reading and discussing the Bible together in their homes, in small groups.
The Diocese of Indore adopted the practice of Bible Sharing as a foundational aspect of faith formation within families, organizing them into Small Christian Communities (SCCs). These communities, consisting of a few families, gather bi-weekly in a member’s home for prayer and reflection.
The 7 Steps of Bible Sharing
Bible sharing within families follows a simple yet profound structure. The session begins with a prayer invoking the Holy Spirit, followed by the reading and reflection on a chosen passage. Members share insights and reflections, discuss previous resolutions made, and conclude by setting new resolutions based on the shared passage. The summaries of these sessions are regularly published in the Indore Diocese news bulletin.
Bible Transforming Families
The impact of this practice on families was remarkable, as parents and elders took on the responsibility of nurturing their faith and sharing it with the younger generations. Faith became a lived experience, shaping relationships and transcending barriers of caste, color, creed, and religion.
Bible sharing not only strengthened familial bonds but also served as a source of solace and strength in challenging times, reaffirming God’s presence in every aspect of life.
Challenges and Victories
Despite facing challenges of societal tensions and misconceptions surrounding Christian activities, families carrying the spirit of Bible sharing embraced their faith with resilience and inclusivity. They extended invitations to neighbors of diverse beliefs to join in Christian celebrations, fostering unity and understanding.
Participation in other religious festivals and upholding Christian values in all facets of life further exemplified the genuine and enduring faith of the community.
The essence of Bible sharing lies not in mere words but in the actions and unity it cultivates within families and the greater society. Through faith and shared experiences, families in Indore continue to illuminate their beliefs, spreading light and harmony in a diverse and ever-changing world.
