Pastoral Visit of the Bishop at Sacred Heart Church, Karikal, Bhatkal

Pastoral Visit of the Bishop at Sacred Heart Church, Karikal, Bhatkal

Sacred Heart Church, Karikal, Bhatkal, joyfully welcomed Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his pastoral visit on 30–31 May 2026. The visit commenced with a traditional reception, followed by a prayer service and a procession to the cemetery, where prayers were offered for the departed faithful.

During the visit, Bishop Duming Dias met various parish organizations and groups, including the Catholic Women’s League, ICYM members, the MCA Children’s Club, Jesus Youth members, and the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and Parish Finance Committee (PFC). He encouraged them to remain active witnesses of Christ and to continue their valuable service in the life and mission of the Church.

The bishop also visited the convent and interacted with the religious sisters, appreciating their dedicated ministry and contribution to the parish community.

A special highlight of the pastoral visit was the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, which was conferred by Bishop Duming Dias on the children of the parish. In his homily, he urged the newly confirmed to be guided by the Holy Spirit, to deepen their faith, and to become committed disciples of Christ in their daily lives.

The bishop also spent time with the sick and visited the houses of the religious sisters, bringing them blessings, comfort, and pastoral care.

Rev. Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias for his inspiring pastoral presence and thanked all parishioners, parish associations, and volunteers for their cooperation in making the visit a spiritually enriching experience for the entire parish community.

Pastoral Visit of the Bishop at St. Joseph’s Church, Lower Kasarkod

Pastoral Visit of the Bishop at St. Joseph’s Church, Lower Kasarkod

The faithful of St Joseph’s Church, Lower Kasarkod, warmly welcomed the bishop, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, during the pastoral visit held on 23 and 24 May 2026. The visit was marked by prayer, fellowship, pastoral interaction, and meetings with various parish associations and faithful.

The visit commenced with a grand reception at the Holy Cross Grotto Circle, followed by a procession to the church. After the solemn entry into the church, a prayer service was conducted, and the bishop visited the cemetery to pray for the departed faithful. The evening also included meetings with the Parish Pastoral Council, Parish Finance Council, and parish clergy.

On Sunday, the bishop joined the parish community for the Prayer of the Church and addressed the faithful before celebrating the Holy Eucharist. Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias was also felicitated after the Holy Mass.

During the day, he interacted with various parish organisations, including MCA, Women’s League, Secular Franciscan Order (SFO), Catholic Teachers, ICYM, and the Catholic Association.

As part of his pastoral ministry, the bishop also visited sick parishioners in their homes and later met members of the general public, offering encouragement and blessings to all.

Parish Priest Fr. Albert D’Silva thanked Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias and all those who contributed to making the pastoral visit a successful and meaningful occasion.

The pastoral visit strengthened the spirit of faith and unity among the parishioners and provided an opportunity for the faithful to interact closely with their shepherd.    

The Karwar Diocesan Seminarians’ Gathering was held at Puneeth Sadan Shirwad.

The Karwar Diocesan Seminarians’ Gathering was held at Puneeth Sadan Shirwad.

The Karwar Diocesan Seminarians’ Gathering was held at Puneeth Sadan Shirwad on 21–22 May 2026 with the participation of 20 seminarians from both the minor and major seminaries. The two-day gathering provided an opportunity for prayer, reflection, fraternity, and vocational enrichment.

The gathering began with Confessions and Adoration led by Rector Fr. John Rodrigues, helping to create a prayerful atmosphere and spiritually prepare the seminarians for the programme ahead.

The second day commenced with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, together with the formators and the Diocesan Vocation Promoter.Following the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. Ignatius D’Souza conducted an insightful session on vocation, encouraging and guiding the seminarians in their journey towards priesthood.

A meaningful sharing session was also held during which the seminarians reflected on their experiences from holiday ministry, the propaedeutic year, and parish ministry. The sharing fostered mutual learning, understanding, and encouragement among the participants.

Later, the Vicar General, Fr. Richard Rodrigues, addressed the gathering, followed by an inspiring message from Bishop Duming Dias. Vice Rector Fr. Sachin D’Souza and Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, the Diocesan Vocation Promoter, also shared words of motivation and support with the seminarians.

The gathering concluded joyfully with animation programmes, activities, and games conducted by Fr. Silvan Rodrigues and Fr. Valento. A vote of thanks was proposed by one of the seminarians, expressing gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias, the Vicar General, formators, vocation promoter, DPC Director, procurator, and staff members for their dedicated efforts in organising the gathering successfully.

The programme ended with the Angelus followed by a fellowship meal, leaving all the participants spiritually enriched and strengthened in fraternity and vocation.  

Pastoral Visit and Confirmation Celebration held at Holy Cross Church, Shirali

Pastoral Visit and Confirmation Celebration held at Holy Cross Church, Shirali

Holy Cross Church, Shirali, witnessed a joyful and faith-filled occasion as the Bishop made his pastoral visit to the parish on 16 and 17 May 2026. The two-day visit brought together parishioners, parish organisations, children, youth, and leaders of the community in a spirit of prayer, unity, and renewal.

The bishop was accorded a warm welcome by the parish community at the main gate, followed by a prayer service in the church. As part of the pastoral visit, the bishop blessed the cemetery and spent time interacting with various parish groups, including the Catholic Women’s League, daily Mass devotees, MCA children, choir members, ICYM members, Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, liturgical animators, and members of the Parish Pastoral Council and Finance Committee.

The bishop also met the parish priest and reviewed the parish office records, encouraging the parish leadership in their pastoral responsibilities and service to the faithful.

On the second day of the visit, the bishop visited the homes of seminarians, the sick and suffering, and the housing project house, offering prayers and encouragement to the families. He later met the Confirmation candidates and guided them to remain rooted in faith and Christian values.

The highlight of the celebration was the solemn Eucharistic celebration during which the bishop conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation on the candidates. The ceremony was marked by deep devotion and active participation from the faithful. Certificates were distributed to the newly confirmed candidates, followed by a felicitation and thanksgiving program.

The celebrations continued with a photo session and distribution of cake and soft drinks. The bishop also interacted with catechism teachers, altar servers, and Hindu leaders, appreciating their cooperation and contribution towards building harmony and strengthening the parish community.

The pastoral visit and Confirmation celebration concluded on a joyful note, leaving the faithful of Holy Cross Church, Shirali, spiritually enriched and inspired to continue living their faith with greater commitment and unity.  

 

Silver Jubilee Celebration at St Anthony’s Church, Kadra

Silver Jubilee Celebration at St Anthony’s Church, Kadra

The Silver Jubilee of St Anthony’s Church, Kadra, Karwar, was celebrated with great devotion, joy, and gratitude on 12 May 2026. Parishioners, clergy, guests, and well-wishers gathered in large numbers to thank God for 25 years of faith, unity, and spiritual growth in the parish community.

The celebration began with a solemn welcome to Rt Rev. Dr Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, who was received at the church cross and escorted in a grand procession to the church accompanied by a traditional band. The Jubilee Holy Eucharist was presided over by the bishop and concelebrated by 32 priests, including many former parish priests and clergy who had served the parish over the years. Also present were the Vicar General, Rev. Fr Richard Rodrigues, and the Deans of Kajubag and Kone Deaneries, Fr Irenio Dias and Fr Gabriel Monis.

In his homily, Bishop Duming Dias emphasised that the true spirit of the Jubilee lies in helping the poor and needy through acts of charity, compassion, and service. He encouraged the faithful to continue growing in faith and unity.

At the end of the Eucharistic celebration, Parish Priest Rev. Fr John Worth thanked everyone who contributed to the successful organisation of the Jubilee celebration. The parish also felicitated the bishop on the occasion of his first Eucharistic celebration in the parish after his episcopal ordination.

A cultural and thanksgiving programme followed, during which the history of the parish was beautifully presented by Parish Council Secretary Mrs Selma Britto, highlighting the remarkable journey of the parish over the past 25 years. During the programme, priests who had served the parish, village elders, and parishioners who had excelled in various fields were honoured in appreciation of their contribution and service.

In his presidential message, Bishop Duming Dias called upon the faithful to remain grateful to God for the blessings received over the years and appealed to the parish community to support the diocesan “Year of the Poor” initiative by helping build a house for a poor family in the parish.

Mrs Reshma D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks. The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, strengthening the bonds of faith, unity, and fraternity among the faithful.

YCS, YSM and MCA Training Program held at St Joseph Church Lower Kasarkod

YCS, YSM and MCA Training Program held at St Joseph Church Lower Kasarkod

The Commission for Youth and the Commission for Proclamation and Evangelisation jointly organised a full-day YCS, YSM, and MCA Training Program on 13th May 2026 at St Joseph Church, Lower Kasarkod, for the animators involved in youth and children’s ministry.

The program commenced with a prayer led by Fr Stewart Fernandes. Flowers were presented to the dignitaries, followed by the watering of a plant as a symbol of inauguration, growth, and nurturing of faith among children and youth. The master of ceremony for the day was Agnes Rego. And Fr Silvan Rodrigues welcomed the gathering and introduced the resource person, Fr Steven Fernandes.

During the training sessions, Fr Steven Fernandes provided valuable guidance on YCS and YSM movements and conducted various interactive activities that inspired and energised the animators. The sessions were lively, engaging, and informative, helping participants better understand their role in youth ministry.

A total of 22 participants attended the program. Along with that, Fr Stewart Fernandes delivered a session on the importance of MCA and also evaluated the MCA activities carried out by the animators in their respective parishes.

As a gesture of gratitude and appreciation, Fr Steven Fernandes was felicitated with a shawl and fruits. At the end of the program, Fr Silvan Rodrigues thanked Fr Steven Fernandes for his inspiring sessions and appreciated all the participants for their active involvement. He also expressed gratitude to Fr Albert D’Silva for his wholehearted support and cooperation in successfully organising the program.

The participants expressed their happiness and appreciation for the enriching and motivating training program.   

 

Marriage Enrichment Program held at St Sebastian Church, Manchikeri

Marriage Enrichment Program held at St Sebastian Church, Manchikeri

The Family Commission successfully organised a Marriage Enrichment Program on 8th May 2026 at St Sebastian Church, Manchikeri, with the support and cooperation of the Parish in charge, Fr Rony Rodrigues.

The program aimed at strengthening married life and promoting healthy family relationships. Various important topics related to family life were discussed during the sessions, including intimacy and communication in marriage, strengthening the marital bond, conflicts and reconciliation in married life, and practical ways to safeguard marriage and nurture children with proper values.

The resource persons for the day were Mr Stephen Almeida and Fr Sachin D’Souza, who guided the participants through inspiring talks, interactive discussions, and meaningful activities.

A total of 16 participants attended the program and actively participated in all the sessions. The enriching experience and positive response from the couples reflected the success and usefulness of the program.

The spiritual dimension of the gathering was enhanced through Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Confession, offering the participants an opportunity for spiritual renewal alongside marital enrichment. The program concluded with a fellowship lunch, bringing the day to a joyful and meaningful end.  

 

Diaconate Ordination Solemnly Celebrated at St. Joseph the Worker Church, Ambewadi

Diaconate Ordination Solemnly Celebrated at St. Joseph the Worker Church, Ambewadi

The solemn Diaconate Ordination ceremony was held at St Joseph the Worker Church, Ambewadi, Dandeli, on 7th May 2026, marking a joyous and grace-filled occasion for the Diocese and the faithful gathered for the celebration.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rt Rev. Dr Duming Dias along with 29 priests concelebrating the Holy Mass. During the sacred liturgy, Bro. Blisson Dsouza and Bro. Joyston Coutinho were ordained to the Order of Deacons.

In his inspiring homily, Bishop Duming Dias reflected deeply on the vocation and mission of a deacon. He highlighted three important dimensions of diaconal ministry — service, authority, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Encouraging the newly ordained deacons to become humble servants of God and His people.

Rev. Fr Felix Lobo served as the liturgist for the celebration, while Rev. Fr Rohan Fernandes guided the faithful through the liturgy as commentator. Following the liturgical celebration, a small felicitation programme was held, where the faithful, clergy, family members, and well-wishers gathered to congratulate the newly ordained deacons and pray for their fruitful ministry in the Church.

The celebration concluded with gratitude to God for the gift of vocation and prayers for Deacons Blisson D’Souza and Joyston Coutinho as they begin their ministry of service in the Church.    

Diocesan Golden Jubilee Committee Meeting held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad

Diocesan Golden Jubilee Committee Meeting held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad

The Diocesan Golden Jubilee Committee convened for a significant meeting at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, on May 5, 2026, to deliberate on preparations for the forthcoming Jubilee Year.

A total of 21 participants were present for the meeting, including Bishop, Vicar General, the Deans, priests, and lay representatives from various deaneries. The gathering reflected a spirit of unity and shared responsibility as the Diocese prepares to celebrate this historic milestone.

The meeting primarily focused on planning and organizing initiatives for the Golden Jubilee Year. Discussions were held on various proposals. In addition, participants engaged in group discussions to reflect on practical and meaningful ways to implement Jubilee programs at the parish and deanery levels. Several constructive suggestions emerged, emphasizing pastoral outreach, youth involvement, evangelization efforts, and social service initiatives.

The bishop encouraged all present to approach the Jubilee Year not merely as a celebration, but as a time of grace, renewal, and mission for the entire Diocese. The meeting concluded on a hopeful note, with a shared commitment to work collaboratively in making the Golden Jubilee a spiritually enriching and memorable event for all.

ICYM Kajubag Deanery Sports Meet “Rise to Victory” held with Great Enthusiasm

ICYM Kajubag Deanery Sports Meet “Rise to Victory” held with Great Enthusiasm

The ICYM Kajubag Deanery Sports Meet, held under the inspiring theme “Rise to Victory,” was organized on May 4, 2026, at Holy Redeemer Church Ground, bringing together youth from across the deanery for a day of vibrant sportsmanship and fellowship.

The inaugural function was graced by Rev. Fr. Irenio Dias, Dean of Kajubag Deanery; Rev. Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, Diocesan Youth Director; Rev. Fr. Baptist Gomes, Parish Priest of Angadi; and Fr. Wilson D’Souza, Kajubag Deanery Youth Coordinator. ICYM President Shaun Furtado, along with youth representatives from all eight parishes of the deanery, were also present, adding to the spirit of unity and enthusiasm.

In their addresses, the dignitaries encouraged the youth to participate with a spirit of sportsmanship, unity, and mutual respect. They emphasized that the event was not merely about competition but about building friendships and celebrating togetherness. Their inspiring words motivated the participants to give their best while fostering a sense of fraternity.

The sporting events began with a thrilling football knockout tournament. Kajubag Parish Youth emerged as champions after an exciting series of matches, while Angadi Parish secured the runners-up position. Aaron Noronha from Kajubag was named Man of the Match, and Paulson from Angadi was awarded Man of the Tournament for his outstanding performance.

In the girls’ badminton tournament, Sharon and Felicia from Kajubag claimed first place, while Dhania and Dalila, also representing Kajubag, secured second place. The tug of war competition witnessed strong team spirit, with Angadi Parish taking first place and Kajubag Parish finishing as runners-up.

The event concluded successfully, marking the end of a joyful and grace-filled gathering. The sports meet proved to be a wonderful platform for the youth of the deanery to come together in unity, strengthening bonds of fellowship and celebrating the joy of healthy competition.