Marriage Enrichment Program held at Holy Rosary Church Yellapur

Marriage Enrichment Program held at Holy Rosary Church Yellapur

The Diocesan Family Commission successfully organized a Marriage Enrichment Program at Holy Rosary Church, Yellapur, on 19 July 2026, bringing together 25 married couples for a day of reflection, learning, and fellowship. The program was designed to strengthen Christian family life by enriching couples in the areas of parenting, communication, intimacy, and marital commitment.

The program began with a warm welcome and the support of the Parish Priest, Fr. Royston Gonsalves, whose encouragement and excellent organization ensured the smooth conduct of the event.

The first session, titled “Upbringing of Children”, was led by Mrs. Fatima Gonsalves of Kumta. She emphasized the responsibility of parents as the first educators of their children in faith and values, highlighting the importance of prayer, love, discipline, and leading by example in nurturing children.

The second session was presented by Mr. Stephen Almeida of Kumta on “Intimacy, Communication, and the Marital Bond”. He encouraged couples to strengthen their relationship through open communication, mutual respect, forgiveness, and spending quality time together, thereby deepening their commitment to the sacrament of marriage.

Following the sessions, the participants took part in group discussions where they reflected on various aspects of family life and shared their personal experiences. The discussions were lively and meaningful, allowing couples to learn from one another while receiving practical guidance from the resource persons on addressing family challenges in the light of Christian values and the teachings of the Church.

The program concluded with a feedback session, during which participants expressed their appreciation for the practical and relevant content of the program. Many couples requested a similar follow-up program to continue supporting and enriching their family life.

The Family Commission expressed its sincere gratitude to Fr. Royston Gonsalves for his generous hospitality and wholehearted support. Appreciation was also extended to Fr. Sachin D’Souza, Director of the Diocesan Family Commission, for coordinating and facilitating the successful organization of the program.

The Marriage Enrichment Program proved to be a fruitful initiative, renewing the commitment of participating couples to live their vocation of marriage with greater faith, love, and responsibility while fostering stronger Christian families within the parish community. 

15th Death Anniversary of Late Bishop William D’Mello Observed at Cathedral

15th Death Anniversary of Late Bishop William D’Mello Observed at Cathedral

The 15th death anniversary of the late Bishop William D’Mello was solemnly observed on 19th July 2026 at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Church, Kajubag, Karwar.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by the Bishop of Karwar, Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, and was concelebrated by five priests. A large number of lay faithful gathered to participate in the Eucharistic celebration and to remember with gratitude the life and dedicated pastoral ministry of the late Bishop William D’Mello.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Duming Dias led a prayer service at the tomb of the late bishop. As a mark of respect and remembrance, he honoured the tomb by showering flower petals and offering incense. The concelebrating priests and the faithful also paid their homage, praying for the eternal repose of the departed shepherd’s soul.

The entire celebration was meticulously organized by the Cathedral Rector, Rev. Fr. Thomas Fernandes, whose careful planning ensured a prayerful and dignified observance of the occasion. At the conclusion of the program, Fr. Thomas Fernandes expressed his gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias, the concelebrating priests, and all the faithful who participated in the commemorative celebration.

The anniversary served as a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of the late Bishop William D’Mello, whose dedicated service and pastoral leadership continue to inspire the faithful of the Diocese of Karwar.  

 

EMHC Renewal Program for Kumta, Kone and Kajubag Deaneries

EMHC Renewal Program for Kumta, Kone and Kajubag Deaneries

The Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, under the leadership of Fr. Cyprian Silva, organised a two-day Renewal Program for the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) of the Kumta, Kone, and Kajubag Deaneries on 18–19 July 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Shirwad, Karwar. The program brought together 70 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion for a time of spiritual renewal, formation, and fellowship.

The renewal program aimed to deepen the participants’ Eucharistic spirituality and strengthen their commitment to serving the Church with reverence, humility, and devotion. Over the two days, the participants attended a series of formative sessions on the different models of EMHCs, the role of family life in the ministry of an EMHC, Eucharistic theology, and the meaning and significance of the various parts of the Holy Mass. The schedule also included Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, providing opportunities for prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

The sessions were led by Fr. Gabriel Monis, Fr. Sachin D’Souza, Fr. Valento Fernandes, Fr. Thomas D’Souza, and Fr. Cyprian Silva. Through their insightful presentations, they encouraged the participants to carry out their ministry with greater faith, dedication, and love for the Eucharistic Lord.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Roshan Fernandes. Reflecting on the Sunday Gospel, he reminded the participants of their call to remain like the good seed that bears fruit through lives rooted in goodness, despite the challenges and evil present in the world.

A special highlight of the program was the address by Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias. He encouraged the EMHCs to cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ by making regular visits to the Blessed Sacrament, faithfully reading and meditating on the Word of God each day, and participating in a monthly hour of Eucharistic Adoration in their respective parishes. The Bishop also shared updates on the diocesan pastoral plan, Preran Shibir, and SIR, urging everyone to remain actively involved in the pastoral mission of the Diocese.

The participants expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the well-organized program, enriching sessions, prayerful atmosphere, and warm hospitality. They shared that the renewal experience strengthened both their spiritual lives and their understanding of the sacred ministry entrusted to them.

During the vote of thanks, Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, expressed sincere gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias for his constant guidance, encouragement, and support. He thanked the parish priests of the Kumta, Kone, and Kajubag Deaneries for sending their EMHCs to the program and acknowledged the valuable service of all the resource persons. He also expressed appreciation to Fr. Intru Pinto for coordinating the boarding and catering arrangements and thanked the staff of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, especially Steffi and the domestic staff, for their dedicated service. Finally, he thanked all the participants for their active cooperation and encouraged them to continue serving Christ in the Holy Eucharist with faith, humility, and joyful commitment.  

Media Training and Cybersecurity Awareness Session held at Holy Rosary Church, Siddapur

Media Training and Cybersecurity Awareness Session held at Holy Rosary Church, Siddapur

A media training and cybersecurity awareness session was organised for the children of Holy Rosary Church, Siddapur, on 19 July 2026, with the participation of 31 members.

The session was conducted by Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Secretary of the Commission for Social Communication. In his presentation, he explained the importance of media in today’s world, highlighting both its advantages and disadvantages. He encouraged the children to use media responsibly and, in a manner, consistent with Christian values and the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Fr. Stewart also addressed the topic of cybersecurity, creating awareness among the children about online safety, responsible digital behaviour, privacy protection, and the dangers associated with the misuse of social media and the internet. Through practical examples, he guided the participants on how to remain safe and responsible in the digital world.

The children actively participated in the session and remained attentive throughout the programme, showing keen interest in the topics discussed.

Rev. Fr. Lawrence D’Souza, Parish Priest of Holy Rosary Church, was present for the entire session. At the conclusion of the programme, he thanked Fr. Stewart Fernandes for conducting the informative and enriching session. He encouraged the children to apply the lessons learned in their daily lives and to become responsible users of media and technology. He also expressed his gratitude to all those who contributed their services towards the successful organization of the programme.

The session concluded with a greater awareness among the children regarding the positive use of media and the importance of staying safe in the digital environment.   

MCA Unit Inaugurated at Holy Rosary Church, Siddapur

MCA Unit Inaugurated at Holy Rosary Church, Siddapur

The Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Unit was inaugurated at Holy Rosary Church, Siddapur, on 19th July 2026, with the participation of 29 children and two animators.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Secretary of the Commission for Proclamation and Evangelization, and concelebrated by the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Lawrence D’Souza.

In his homily, Fr. Stewart reflected on the theme of patience, inspired by the Sunday liturgical readings. He also highlighted the importance of the Missionary Childhood Association, encouraging the children to grow as young missionaries by witnessing Christ through prayer, love, service, and missionary zeal.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, a training session was conducted for the newly formed MCA Unit. Fr. Stewart introduced the children to the vision, aim, and objectives of the Missionary Childhood Association and explained its various activities. He encouraged them to actively participate in the mission of the Church through prayer, sacrifice, and outreach to children around the world.

Addressing the gathering, Fr. Lawrence D’Souza expressed his gratitude to Fr. Stewart Fernandes for guiding the children and inaugurating the unit. He encouraged the children to remain close to Jesus with the simplicity, humility and joy of little children and to participate enthusiastically in the activities of the MCA.

The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from the children and animators to actively participate in the missionary life of the parish through the Missionary Childhood Association.   

EMHC Renewal Program for Haliyal and Sirsi Deaneries

EMHC Renewal Program for Haliyal and Sirsi Deaneries

The Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, under the direction of Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, organized a two-day Renewal Program for the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) of the Haliyal and Sirsi Deaneries on 11th and 12th July 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. A total of 65 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion participated in the renewal program,

The participants benefited from a series of spiritually enriching and informative sessions on the identity and mission of EMHCs, the family life of EMHCs, Eucharistic theology, and the meaning and significance of the different parts of the Holy Mass. The program also included Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, providing the participants with an opportunity for spiritual renewal and a deeper encounter with Christ.

The sessions were conducted by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Monis, Rev. Fr. Sachin D’Souza, Rev. Fr. Valento Fernandes, Rev. Fr. Thomas D’Souza, and Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva. Through their inspiring presentations, they encouraged the participants to carry out their ministry with greater faith, reverence, and dedication.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Valento Fernandes. In his homily, he invited the participants to receive the Word of God with open hearts, prepare themselves to welcome the Lord, and bear abundant fruit in their personal lives and ministry through faithful Christian living.

The boarding and catering arrangements throughout the two-day program were efficiently coordinated by Rev. Fr. Intru Pinto, ensuring the comfort and well-being of all the participants.

At the conclusion of the program, the participants expressed their sincere appreciation for the excellent organization, well-planned schedule, enriching sessions, and warm hospitality. They shared that the renewal program had strengthened both their spiritual lives and their understanding of the sacred ministry entrusted to them.

In his vote of thanks, Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, expressed his sincere gratitude to Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his constant support and encouragement. He thanked the parish priests of the Haliyal and Sirsi Deaneries for sending their EMHCs, the resource persons for their valuable sessions, Rev. Fr. Intru Pinto and the staff of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, especially Ms. Steffi, for their dedicated service, and all the participants for their wholehearted cooperation. He encouraged the Extraordinary Ministers to continue serving the Eucharistic Lord with faith, humility, and joyful commitment.

The renewal program concluded on a note of gratitude and renewed enthusiasm, inspiring the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to continue their ministry with deeper devotion, reverence, and a renewed commitment to the Eucharist.   

 

YCS Unit formed at Our Lady of Piety Church, Halga

YCS Unit formed at Our Lady of Piety Church, Halga

A half-day formation programme for the Young Catholic Students (YCS) was successfully held at Our Lady of Piety Church, Halga, on 12 July 2026, marking the establishment of a new YCS unit in the parish. The programme brought together 19 students from Class VIII to PUC who enthusiastically participated in the sessions.

The programme began with a prayer service led by Rev. Fr. Ignatius D’Souza, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Piety Church, Halga. Welcoming the participants, he encouraged the students to deepen their faith and become active members of the Church through the YCS movement.

The main formation session was conducted by Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, Youth Director for ICYM and YCS of the Diocese of Karwar. He introduced the students to the vision, mission, and objectives of YCS, highlighting its role in nurturing responsible Christian leadership among young people.

The interactive session included group discussions, activities, and opportunities for participants to share their thoughts and experiences. Special emphasis was given to the YCS methodology of “See, Judge, and Act”, enabling the students to understand how to observe the realities around them, reflect on them in the light of the Gospel, and respond through meaningful action.

The participants were also introduced to the concept of cell meetings, where students regularly gather for prayer, reflection, discussion, and community-orientated activities. The session inspired the young participants to actively contribute to the life of the Church and society through faith-filled leadership and service.

The programme concluded with the recitation of the Angelus, thanking God for the fruitful gathering and invoking His blessings upon the newly formed YCS unit. The formation programme marked an important milestone in strengthening youth ministry in the parish by fostering faith formation, leadership, and social responsibility among the young students.  

 

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Renewal Program for Honnavar and Bhatkal Deaneries

Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion Renewal Program for Honnavar and Bhatkal Deaneries

A two-day renewal program for the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) of the Honnavar and Bhatkal deaneries was successfully conducted on 4–5 July 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre under the auspices of the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, directed by Fr. Cyprian Silva.

The renewal program brought together 116 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, who participated enthusiastically in two days of spiritual formation, liturgical instruction, and prayer. The program was designed to deepen their understanding of the Eucharist, strengthen their spiritual lives, and renew their commitment to the sacred ministry entrusted to them by the Church.

Throughout the program, participants attended a series of enriching sessions covering important aspects of their ministry. The topics included the role and identity of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, family life and witness of EMHCs, Eucharistic theology, and a detailed explanation of the various parts of the Holy Mass. The sessions were led by Fr. Gabriel Monis, Fr. Sachin D’Souza, Fr. Valento Fernandes, Fr. Thomas D’Souza, and Fr. Cyprian Silva, who offered both theological insights and practical guidance for carrying out the ministry with greater reverence and dedication.

The spiritual highlights of the renewal included Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, providing participants with meaningful opportunities for prayer, reflection, and personal spiritual renewal.

The program concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. In his homily, the Bishop emphasized the importance of cultivating a deep prayer life, drawing daily strength from the Word of God, and remaining closely united to Christ in the Eucharist. Addressing the participants after Mass, he encouraged them to live lives of holiness and to become exemplary witnesses of Christ in their families, parishes, and society through their faithful and humble service.

The boarding and catering arrangements for the program were efficiently coordinated by Fr. Intru Pinto, ensuring the comfort and well-being of all the participants.

At the conclusion of the program, the participants expressed their sincere appreciation for the excellent organization, well-planned schedule, enriching sessions, and warm hospitality extended throughout the two days. Many shared that the renewal had strengthened both their spiritual lives and their understanding of the sacred ministry they exercise in the Church.

In his vote of thanks, Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, expressed gratitude to the participants for their wholehearted cooperation, the resource persons for their valuable contributions, and the organizing team for their dedicated service. He encouraged the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to continue serving the Eucharistic Lord with faith, humility, reverence, and joyful commitment, becoming living witnesses of Christ in their communities.  

Catechism Teachers Enriched through Formation Seminar

Catechism Teachers Enriched through Formation Seminar

A one-day seminar for the Catechism Teachers of Kone and Kajubag Deaneries was successfully held on 28 June 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, under the leadership of Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Commission for Faith Formation. The formation programme brought together 36 catechism teachers from the two deaneries, offering them an enriching day of spiritual renewal, learning, and practical training.

The seminar began with a prayer service, invoking God’s blessings upon the participants and their mission of nurturing the faith of children. In the inaugural session, Fr. Cyprian Silva spoke on the theme “Becoming Effective Catechism Teachers”. He reminded the participants that catechists are called not only to teach the faith but also to become authentic witnesses of Christ through lives of prayer, commitment, and exemplary Christian living. He encouraged them to inspire children by both their words and their personal witness.

The second session was led by Fr. Valento Fernandes, who reflected on “Growing in Faith within the Family”. Emphasizing the family as the first school of faith, he encouraged catechists to foster greater collaboration with parents in the faith formation of children. His practical insights and inspiring message motivated the participants to strengthen family involvement in catechetical ministry.

In the afternoon, Fr. Cyprian conducted a demo catechism lesson, introducing creative teaching methods, interactive activities, and practical approaches to make catechism classes more engaging, meaningful, and child-friendly. The demonstration provided valuable guidance on communicating the truths of faith effectively to young learners.

The participants also celebrated the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Intru, Procurator of the Diocese. In his homily, he reflected on the call to detach ourselves from worldly distractions and dedicate ourselves to the mission entrusted to us through Baptism as priest, prophet, and king. He encouraged the catechism teachers to continue their ministry with zeal, generosity, and unwavering commitment.

At the concluding session, Fr. Cyprian Silva expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his constant guidance, encouragement, and support to the Commission for Faith Formation. He also thanked the parish priests of Kone and Kajubag deaneries for sending their catechism teachers, Fr. Intru for making the necessary arrangements, Fr. Valento Fernandes for his inspiring presentation, and all the participants for their generous service and dedication to the Church.

The seminar concluded on a joyful and hopeful note, with the catechism teachers returning to their respective parishes spiritually renewed, enriched with practical teaching methods, and inspired to continue their mission of forming young disciples with greater enthusiasm and dedication.  

Diocese of Karwar Health Commission Organises Get-Together of Health Professionals

Diocese of Karwar Health Commission Organises Get-Together of Health Professionals

The Health Commission of the Diocese of Karwar, under the leadership of Sr. Natasha SRA, Secretary of the Commission for Health, organised a Get-Together of Health Professionals on 28th June 2026 at the Karwar Diocesan Development Council (KDDC), Karwar.

The programme commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, symbolising the light of knowledge, hope, and service. The gathering was centred on the theme “Together for Health: Stand with Science”, which was presented by Fr. Santhosh Dias, National Executive Secretary of the CCBI Health Commission. In his keynote address, Fr. Santhosh Dias highlighted the importance of combining scientific knowledge with compassionate healthcare and encouraged health professionals to work together in promoting holistic well-being.

During the programme, four distinguished healthcare professionals were honoured for their dedicated and selfless service in the field of healthcare: Dr. Manuel Fernandes, Sr. Diana S.R.A., Mr. Appian Fernandes, and Mrs. Shobha Fernandes.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, addressed the gathering and emphasised the significance of the One Health approach, focusing on the interconnection between human health, animal health, and environmental health. He encouraged healthcare professionals to work towards building a healthier and more sustainable society through collaborative efforts.

The programme concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, followed by a fellowship lunch, offering participants an opportunity to interact, strengthen their bonds, and renew their commitment to the healing ministry of the Church.
The event served as a meaningful platform for healthcare professionals across the diocese to come together in faith, fellowship, and service, reaffirming their dedication to promoting holistic health and the dignity of every human person.