Amuri – Owerri, Nigeria. In November 2024, the Bible Apostolate team embarked on a mission to bring Scripture alive through engaging programs in schools and parishes. The initiative aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of the Bible’s relevance to daily life and its role in shaping faith and community.
On Thursday, 7 November 2024, the team visited Claret Comprehensive Secondary School, Amuri. Guided by the teachings of Carlos Mesters, who likens life and the Bible to two great books authored by God, the session emphasized integrating faith into daily experiences. Students participated in a virtual exploration of significant New Testament locations, such as Magdala, Capernaum, and the Sea of Galilee. The program included a dramatization of the healing of the paralyzed man in Capernaum (Mark 2:1-12), from which key lessons were drawn: Jesus’ authority to forgive sins, His healing power, His knowledge of human thoughts, the overcoming power of faith, the role of bringing hope to the hopeless, and mutual support in finding God.
Two weeks later, on Thursday, 21 November 2024, the Bible Apostolate extended its outreach to the youth of St. Maria Goretti Parish, Ikenegbu, Owerri. This session featured a “Biblical Sites and Sounds” virtual excursion to Caesarea Philippi, known historically as Panias or Banias and biblically as Mount Hermon. Participants reflected on the historical and spiritual significance of the city, including its role during the Jewish-Roman War of 67 AD when its residents declared Roman commander Vespasian as their savior. This sparked discussions on Matthew 16:16, where Peter proclaims Jesus as “Christ, the Son of the Living God,” highlighting a profound religious-political defiance.
A dynamic reading of Matthew 16:13-20 followed, leading to group discussions about religion’s role in Nigerian politics. “This is our apostolate and service,” said Fr Rowland Onyenali, CMF. “We are ready to support you in this mission.”
Through these programs, the Bible Apostolate team continues to inspire faith and community engagement by connecting Scripture to the lived experiences of participants.
Source: Fr Rowland Onyenali, CMF, East Nigeria Province/ACLA Coordinator, Prefect of Bible Ministry and Communication.
