As part of the three-day Ongoing Formation Programme for Priests serving in the Diocese of Karwar, a one-day seminar on “Liturgical Singing and Sacred Music” was organised by the Commission for Liturgy on 20 October 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Karwar. The seminar marked the first day of the formation programme, which aimed to enrich the priests’ understanding of liturgy and strengthen their pastoral ministry.

The resource person for the seminar was Rev. Fr. Rudolph Pinto, OCD, Executive Secretary of the CCBI Commission for Liturgy. The programme began with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, Diocesan Director of the Commission for Liturgy. Rev. Fr. Francis Fernandes introduced the resource person and welcomed the gathering.

In his address, the Bishop highlighted the importance of liturgy in the life of the Church and emphasised the need for priests to celebrate it with understanding, reverence, and fidelity to the Church’s liturgical norms. He encouraged the priests to remain open to ongoing learning, unlearn outdated or inappropriate practices, and update themselves with new knowledge and developments in liturgical celebrations.

During the seminar, Fr. Rudolph Pinto shared valuable insights into the history and development of liturgical singing and its significance in the Church’s worship. He addressed common errors and shortcomings in current liturgical music practices and explained the principles governing the composition of sacred music. He also introduced various sources and resources to help priests compose and select appropriate music for liturgical celebrations. The interactive session provided an opportunity for participants to raise questions and clarify their doubts.

A total of 98 priests serving in the Diocese of Karwar participated in the seminar. The first day of the three-day formation programme provided an enriching opportunity for reflection, learning, and renewal, encouraging priests to deepen their liturgical awareness and promote sacred music that enhances the prayer and worship of the faithful.

Rev. Fr. Stephen D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the resource person, the Bishop, the organisers, and all those who contributed to the successful conduct of the seminar.