The Bible in the Life of the Church

Spiritual experiences and traditions are recorded in the sacred books. We Christians have the Bible: what is its place in the life of the Church, in my life?

Jesus is God’s final Revelation: ‘In these last days God has spoken to us in his Son” (Heb 1:2). His oldest name is Immanuel, God-with-us (is 7:14; Mt 1:23). In Jesus God is with us. It is thus that the disciples recognized him (cf.Mk1:1). In his death and Resurrection, through his abiding and life-giving presence in the Church, God is with us. This is the core of the Christian faith.

Jesus never told his disciples to write down his message: he himself is the message. It will be preserved not by documents, in the files of archives, but in the living community of his diciples. For ever he remains alive in their community.

The Church in Goa

Historically, the Goan society has passed through various stages of transition. Its liberation from Portuguese colonialism in 1961, the Opinion Poll of 1967, the achievement of Statehood for Goa in 1987, the inclusion of Konkani language in the VIII schedule and its recognition as the official language of Goa in 1987 have been commendable affirmations of its political identity and maturity.

Socio-economic-political Concerns

In comparison with the other States of India, Goa is well placed in terms of population, literacy and economic viability. Its per capita income and its standard of living are among the highest in the country.