Every September, Chileans celebrate two major celebrations: Bible Prayer Month and Independence Day. Bible Prayer Month highlights and reminds people of the fundamental role of the Bible in the spiritual lives of Chileans. Independence Day reminds people to foster a spirit of patriotism and love for their country. Communities throughout the country organize activities that emphasize the relevance and influence of the Bible for the spiritual and mental development of people.
During the month, the church, in collaboration with the government, educational institutions, and various social organizations, organizes a Bible Exhibition that displays a variety of Bibles in different languages of the world and in different media. The diversity of the Bibles captivates visitors to the exhibition and gives them insight into how the Bible has a global influence that has changed the lives of many people and transformed the cultures of the world.
This year, the Chilean Bible Society (CBS) received a special honor from the Chilean Parliament in Valparaiso. Sara Concha, a Christian and member of Congress for the Christian Socialist Party, facilitated the communication that allowed CBS to host the Bible exhibition inside one of the halls of Congress. CBS also presented special editions of the New Testament to the deputies during their sessions in Congress. This gift was received with great respect and gratitude, even by non-believers. All people, believers and non-believers in Christ, respected the role of the Bible as a source of inspiration for Chilean life and culture.
In celebration of independence, Chilean churches held thanksgiving services in various cities throughout the country. Santiago hosted two important events: the Evangelical Thanksgiving Service on September 15 and the Ecumenical Service on September 18. Both events were attended by the President of Chile, cabinet ministers, the president of the senate, the president of the Supreme Court, members of parliament, representatives of the Armed Forces, mayors, and other church and state officials, demonstrating the unity of faith and state. The Secretary General of the Chilean Bible Society participated in both major events.
To promote a deeper understanding of the Bible, the Chilean Bible Society organized several seminars to introduce the Reina Valera Contemporánea (RVC) translation. Led by Sister Loida Ortiz and Father Delfín Viano, these seminars were attended by pastors and church leaders throughout Santiago and other regions. The presence of the congregational leaders and church ministers who enthusiastically participated in the seminars encouraged unity among the churches, especially around the teachings of the Bible.
In addition, throughout the month of September, the CBS team also held a Bible course led by Father Delfín Viano and Bible Translation Consultant Luis Garabito. This course provided the congregation with a variety of basic and theological understandings of the Bible. The participants were lay people from various church denominations. Participants who completed the Bible course were awarded a certificate by CBS. This training reflected the commitment of the Chilean Bible Society to make the Bible not only easily accessible and accessible, but also to encourage the congregation’s love and engagement with the Bible. These seminars indirectly brought together people from various backgrounds, communities, and heritages. The month of September truly brought together an enriching experience of togetherness for all involved in two great celebrations.
