The Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) of Bidar and Aurad zones gathered joyfully for a Zonal Jubilee Celebration held at St. Joseph’s School Auditorium, Bidar. The event marked a significant milestone in the life of the diocese and offered an opportunity for renewal, sharing, and action planning among grassroots Christian communities. A total of 176 participants took part in this vibrant celebration. The celebration centered around the inspiring theme: “ಚಿಕ್ಕ ಬಳ್ಳಿಗಳೂ ಒಗ್ಗೂಡಿದರೆ ಒಮ್ಮಿಶದಂತೆ ಬಾಳಬಹುದು” (“Even small twigs, when joined together, can burn like one flame”) – emphasizing the power of unity and collective faith. The theme resonated throughout the day’s events, reminding everyone that small faith communities, when united in purpose and prayer, can create a transformative impact.
The day began with a time of praise and worship, followed by an inaugural ceremony marked by prayer and the symbolic lighting of the lamp. A leaflet on the role of Animators in BECs was also released during the program, highlighting the vital role they play in strengthening community life and spiritual growth.
Bishop Robert Miranda addressed the assembly, underlining the foundational role BECs play in nurturing faith at the family and neighborhood levels. He emphasized the importance of personal sharing of the Word of God and life witness, which springs from deep faith. He noted that in many BEC/SCC groups, such sharing takes place beyond barriers of education, social status, or language, reflecting the inclusive and transformative power of Gospel-rooted communities. The Bishop encouraged every member to be a “spark of the Spirit,” keeping the fire of Christ’s love burning brightly in every home and neighborhood.
Fr. Maxim Dias, the Regional Secretary for the BEC Commission, delivered a thought-provoking keynote address. He emphasized that the mission of BECs lies in building a synodal Church, centered on lay participation, community discernment, and Gospel-centered action. He urged BEC members to engage in sharing the Word of God with personal experiences, and to take up service activities that rise above differences of social standing or language, thus living out the values of the Kingdom in daily life. A theme song was beautifully sung and accompanied by a lively dance, energizing the atmosphere. As part of the celebration of World Environment Day, a few plants were symbolically planted after the Holy Eucharist, expressing the community’s commitment to care for creation.
Selected BEC groups gave presentations, sharing their lived experiences, best practices, and challenges. Their testimonies showcased how even the smallest communities, when united in faith, can become powerful witnesses to the Gospel. Cultural performances and a creative skit based on the BEC theme added vibrancy to the event, reinforcing the message of unity and shared mission.
A session on “Planning the Way Forward” allowed participants to identify practical steps to strengthen BECs across the zones. Key suggestions included: Revitalizing regular Gospel sharing, Fostering youth and children’s participation, Enhancing family visits, collaborative leadership at the grassroots.
The celebration concluded with a Thanksgiving Holy Eucharist presided over by Bishop Robert Miranda. During the Mass, the faithful were commissioned to carry forward the mission of the BEC with renewed faith and commitment.
