St. Stephen the Protomartyr Parish conducted Basic Bible Seminar (BBS) last May 3-4, 2025, held at the Parish Hall. The BBS opened with great enthusiasm as participants gathered for a day of learning, reflection, and fellowship. The day began with arrival and registration, warmly welcoming attendees from various ministries and organizations.
The Opening Liturgy, led by Ms. Ana Lisa Robles, set a prayerful tone, followed by the Bible Enthronement, the presentation of participants, and a heartfelt welcome talk from Rev. Fr. Romeo Realingo Jr., who encouraged everyone to open their hearts to the Word of God.
An orientation activity on Bible scanning and locating texts introduced participants to the Scriptures in an engaging and practical way. After a brief snack break, the first conference, titled “The Bible as a Book,” explored the structure, history, and importance of the Bible in our faith.
Following a shared lunch, the group enjoyed a lively animation session, which helped reenergize everyone for the afternoon. The second conference, “Approaches to the Bible,” deepened understanding of how to read and interpret Scripture. The day continued with Gospel Sharing 1, where participants reflected together on God’s message in their lives.
he day concluded with reminders, a closing prayer, and snacks, leaving participants looking forward to the second day of the seminar.
The second day of the Parish Basic Bible Seminar started with the same routine as participants gathered once again in a spirit of joy and eagerness. It opened with a meaningful liturgy, inviting everyone to center their hearts on God.
Participants reflected on their experiences during the recap and feedback session, sharing insights and learnings from Day 1. The third conference, “The Bible as the Word of God,” offered a deeper understanding of Scripture as God’s living message to His people.
After a morning snack, participants engaged in Gospel Sharing II / LBSS (Little Bible Sharing Session), providing a space for personal reflection and communal dialogue. A shared lunch followed, nourishing both body and fellowship.
An energizing animation session set the tone for the afternoon, leading into the fourth conference, “Response to the Word of God,” which emphasized living out the teachings of Scripture in daily life.
Participants then moved into planning sessions and group reporting, sharing their ideas for applying what they had learned within their communities.
The seminar concluded with the distribution of certificates, celebrating each participant’s commitment. The final highlight was the Holy Mass at the church presided by Rev. Fr. Paulo B. Barandon, where the community came together in thanksgiving, followed by a special commissioning – sending forth participants as bearers of the Word in their families and ministries.
GENEROSA A. PENAFIEL, Media & Communication Head- Ecumenism and Interfaith Relation/ Parokya Patroller
