By Fr Chris Ferreira SDB for BIS Mumbai

 Guided by St Jerome’s timeless maxim, "Ignorance of the scriptures is ignorance of Christ," the Catechism Ministry of Don Bosco Parish, Makarpura, successfully hosted its inaugural Bible Quiz on March 1, 2026. This vibrant event served as the culmination of weeks of spiritual preparation for 180 children, spanning from Standard 1 to the Confirmation group in Standard 11. The initiative was spearheaded by Fr Chris Ferreira SDB, Catechism Ministry In-charge, and the Catechism Coordinator, who envisioned a learning activity that would move beyond the classroom. The journey began two weeks prior with preliminary rounds, narrowing the field down to 54 finalists who displayed exceptional scriptural knowledge.

The seamless execution of the day was a testament to the meticulous planning of the core committee—Sr Catherine FMA, Patrick Sir, Shinu Tr, Olivia Tr, Cyrus, and Nigel—who managed everything from study materials and logistics to refreshments and prizes. The event commenced following the morning parish Eucharist. After a hearty breakfast, the students assembled into their spirited teams: Bethlehem ke Baadshah, Cana ke Chamatkari, Galilee ke Gyaani, Jerusalem ke Jigarbaaz, Nazareth ke Ninja, and Samaria ke Superstars. The excitement was palpable, drawing in a large crowd of parents, youth, and well-wishers who gathered to support the young contestants.

The competition featured a variety of creative "out-of-the-box" segments that moved beyond standard questions. These included personage identification, a high-energy "pop the balloon" round, and enactment rounds that challenged the students to use their creative genius to portray scripture. Even the audience joined the fray, with parents and youth winning spot prizes for their own biblical insights. While the rapid-fire rounds significantly escalated the scores, it was the strategic "bid your question" round that proved to be the ultimate game-changer of the afternoon.

Before the final results were revealed by Fr Brian Moras SDB, Fr Chris Ferreira proposed a vote of thanks, expressing genuine appreciation for Patrick Sir and the Core Committee for pioneering this landmark event. The hall finally erupted in cheers as the Nazareth ke Ninjas were crowned champions, bursting into a celebratory jig after securing a whopping 615 points. This successful endeavour not only tested the children's knowledge but also ignited a renewed passion for the Word of God within the entire parish community, ensuring that the light of scripture continues to shine brightly in Makarpura.