The Bethania Retreat Center in Thamarassery diocese has begun a training program to help lay evangelists become more effective in their ministries. “We empower lay evangelists to proclaim the gospel without fear or ignorance,” said Father James Kiliyananickal, director of Bethania. The year-long program, which began on June 11, covers public speaking skills in its initial phase, with Bible interpretation and preaching methods to be added later. Thomas Mannooran, a lay evangelist and participant in the program, said 55 people currently attend training sessions, which are held every second Saturday. “Though we are guided by the Holy Spirit, there should be some training to polish our skills.”