Formation of Deanery-level women’s groups across the Karwar diocese

Formation of Deanery-level women’s groups across the Karwar diocese

The Diocesan Women’s Commission successfully organized deanery-level training programs for parish women presidents across all seven deaneries of the Diocese. These sessions were coordinated with the support of the deanery sister coordinators and a dedicated resource team.

As a result of these trainings, seven Deanery-level Women Cells have been officially formed in the Honavar, Bhatkal, Sirsi, Kumta, Haliyal, Kajubag, and Kone Deaneries. Each group received guidance and a practical action plan to be implemented over the next three months, aimed at strengthening women’s leadership and faith-based initiatives at the grassroots level.

The Commission expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. Gabriel Monis and Rev. Fr. Raymond Fernandes, who took special interest in being present and supporting the sessions. Sincere thanks also go to all deans and parish priests who encouraged and motivated the parish presidents to attend the training.

A special word of appreciation to the Deanery Leaders and Sister Coordinators, whose meticulous planning and execution ensured the smooth and fruitful conduct of these trainings. Their commitment reflects the vibrant and growing participation of women in the mission of the Church. 

14th Death Anniversary of Late Bishop William D’Mello Commemorated with Solemn Eucharistic Celebration 

14th Death Anniversary of Late Bishop William D’Mello Commemorated with Solemn Eucharistic Celebration 

The 14th death anniversary of Late Bishop William D’Mello, the first Bishop of the Diocese of Karwar, was commemorated with deep reverence and gratitude at the Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Kajubag, on 19th July 2025.

The solemn Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. Many priests, religious, and lay faithful gathered to pay tribute to the beloved shepherd who laid the foundation of the diocese and led it with vision and dedication.

Rev. Fr. Stany Pinto delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking homily, reflecting on the life, virtues, and missionary spirit of the late Bishop William. He highlighted Bishop D’Mello’s deep faith, humility, and tireless pastoral commitment to the people of the diocese.

Following the Eucharist, floral tributes were offered by the Bishop and all the faithful present as a mark of love and respect towards the late bishop. The atmosphere was one of solemn remembrance and heartfelt thanksgiving.

Rev. Fr. Thomas Fernandes, Parish Priest of the Cathedral, expressed his sincere gratitude to the Bishop, clergy, religious, and all the faithful who gathered to honor the memory of Bishop William. He thanked everyone for their prayerful presence and support in making the event meaningful and grace-filled.

May the life and legacy of Bishop William D’Mello continue to inspire and guide the Diocese of Karwar in the years to come. 

Catechism teachers’ training held at Yellapur for Haliyal deanery

Catechism teachers’ training held at Yellapur for Haliyal deanery

The Catechetical Commission of the Diocese of Karwar, under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, successfully organized a Catechism Teachers’ Training Program on Sunday, 13th July 2025, at Holy Rosary Church, Yellapur. This training, specially arranged for the teachers of Haliyal Deanery, brought together around 40 catechism teachers, including several religious sisters, for a day of learning, reflection, and renewal.

The day began with a warm welcome, followed by an enriching session by Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Catechetical Commission, on “The Call of a Catechism Teacher and the Treasures Hidden in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.” He highlighted the noble vocation of catechists and the valuable resources available to nurture children’s faith. In the second session, he shared creative and interactive methods to make catechism classes more engaging. Teachers deeply appreciated the practical insights and expressed their eagerness for continued formation.

The highlight of the day was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Raymond Fernandes, Dean of Haliyal Deanery. In his inspiring homily, he encouraged catechists to be “Good Samaritans” in the lives of their students, guiding them with compassion and faith.

The Commission sincerely thanks Fr. Roystan Gonsalves, Parish Priest of Holy Rosary Church, for graciously hosting the event, and Fr. Philip Roque, Fr. Anthony Dsouza, and Fr. Simon Fernandes for their encouraging presence. Special gratitude is extended to Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his constant support and blessing. The training renewed the spiritual energy and commitment of catechism teachers as they prepare for the new academic year. 

Catechism Teachers’ Training Ignites new zeal in Honnavar and Bhatkal Deaneries

Catechism Teachers’ Training Ignites new zeal in Honnavar and Bhatkal Deaneries

The Catechetical Commission of the Diocese of Karwar, under the leadership of Fr. Cyprian Silva, organized a vibrant Catechism Teachers’ Training Program at Pratibhodaya, Honnavar, on 6th July 2025. The event saw the enthusiastic participation of 124 catechism teachers, including several religious sisters from the Honnavar and Bhatkal deaneries.

The training began with a warm welcome by Fr. Cyprian Silva, who led two insightful sessions. The first focused on the essence of catechism and its role in forming children as true followers of Christ, while the second introduced creative and interactive teaching methods to make classes more effective and enriching. During the group discussion, teachers expressed gratitude and eagerness for more such formative opportunities

The highlight of the day was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which Fr. Cyprian delivered a powerful homily on the theme: Each Catechism Teacher is Sent by the Lord to Be Another Christ in the Life of Their Students. This moving message stirred the hearts of all present, rekindling their passion for the sacred mission entrusted to them.

The Catechetical Commission expressed deep appreciation to Fr. Sebastian Fernandes, Parish Priest of St. Sebastian Church, Mugwa, and Director of Pratibhodaya, for his gracious hospitality and meticulous arrangements that contributed to the success of the program. Special thanks were also extended to Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his unwavering support, spiritual guidance, and blessings upon all catechetical efforts in the diocese.

This training marks a spirit-filled and empowering beginning to the new catechetical year, renewing every teacher’s commitment to lead children closer to Christ with dedication, creativity, and love. 

Holy Cross Minor Seminary Shirwad Celebrates Inaugural Mass of the Academic Year 2025-26

Holy Cross Minor Seminary Shirwad Celebrates Inaugural Mass of the Academic Year 2025-26

Holy Cross Minor Seminary, Shirwad, marked the beginning of its new academic year with a solemn Inaugural Mass on 3rd July, 2025, celebrated on the Feast of St. Thomas the Apostle. The celebration was held in the seminary chapel in a spirit of thanksgiving and joyful anticipation.

The Holy Eucharist was presided over by His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, who in his homily encouraged the seminarians to emulate the deep faith and missionary zeal of St. Thomas. He emphasized three important points. Firstly, formation is a path of relationship; secondly, fraternity is a crucial part of formation; and thirdly, formation of priests means forming men capable of loving, listening, praying, and serving together. The parish priest of Shirwad, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Monis, and the new staff of the seminary were also present for the celebration.

This year, the seminary is blessed to welcome seven new seminarians who have responded to God’s call and now begin their journey of discernment, learning, and prayer alongside their senior brothers. Thus, bringing the total number of seminarians to 27. Nine of these brothers will be promoted to their further formation in Udupi this year.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, a festive meal was shared in community, strengthening the bonds of fraternity and marking the occasion with joy and thanksgiving.

The Inaugural Mass has served as a reminder of the sacred responsibility entrusted to each seminarian to grow in holiness, knowledge, and service to the Church. 

Redemptoris Mater Seminary inaugurated its new academic year.

Redemptoris Mater Seminary inaugurated its new academic year.

The Redemptoris Mater Seminary in Bangalore witnessed a momentous and grace-filled event presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, marking a significant milestone in the life of the seminary community.

On June 26, 2025, the seminary inaugurated its new academic year, 2025–2026, with a solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 5:30 PM in the seminary chapel. Bishop Duming Dias, as the main celebrant, delivered a powerful homily urging the seminarians to grow in holiness, discipline, and missionary zeal. He reminded them that priestly formation is not merely an academic endeavor but a transformative journey of inner conversion and joyful fidelity to Christ and His Church.

The Mass was concelebrated by the formators and attended by seminarians and friends of the seminary. The atmosphere was deeply spiritual and filled with gratitude, prayer, and renewed commitment to the priestly vocation.

This significant celebration not only marked the beginning of a new academic year but also reaffirmed the seminary’s mission to form holy and zealous priests for the Church and the world. 

 Catechism Teachers Training at St. Anthony Church, Sirsi

 Catechism Teachers Training at St. Anthony Church, Sirsi

The Catechetical Commission of the Diocese, under the able leadership of Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, organized a Catechism Teachers Training Program on Sunday, 29th June 2025, at St. Anthony Church, Sirsi. The event brought together 25 dedicated catechism teachers, including religious sisters, representing 7 parishes of the Sirsi Deanery.

The day began with a warm welcome by Fr. Cyprian Silva, who opened the first session by affirming that “Faith is the foundation of Christian life.” He highlighted the vital role of catechists in nurturing children’s faith and offered practical guidance on teaching the truths of the faith in ways that inspire daily Christian living. Fr. Cyprian also reflected on the spirituality of catechists, encouraging them to deepen their own faith and become authentic Gospel witnesses. Emphasizing that catechism is not merely an academic subject but a lifelong mission, he called for forming Christ-centered individuals rooted in the Word of God

The training day was made spiritually enriching through the celebration of the solemn Eucharist on the feast of Saints Peter and Paul. In his homily, Fr. Cyprian encouraged all catechists to be bold and faithful proclaimers of Christ, just like the two great apostles and pillars of the Church. He reminded them that teaching the faith is a sacred calling and a vital ministry in the life of the Church.

The event was graced by the presence of Rev. Fr. Cyril Dsouza, Parish Priest of St. Anthony Church, Sirsi, and the Assistant Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Valento Fernandes, who offered their encouragement and support to all the participants. We remain grateful to St. Anthony Church and the parish priest for bearing the expenses of the day. The teachers expressed their gratitude for updating them with in-depth knowledge about the Catechism of the Catholic Church and different teaching skills to make catechism class creative and lively.

The training concluded with a renewed sense of commitment among the catechists to be rooted in faith and serve as instruments of transformation in their parishes.

Inauguration of the Journey of the Regional Youth Cross

Inauguration of the Journey of the Regional Youth Cross

The solemn inauguration of the journey of the Regional Youth Cross took place on 29th June 2025 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Mundalli, at Bhatkal Deanery. The event marked a significant moment of spiritual awakening and youth collaboration.

The Cross was ceremoniously handed over to Bhatkal Deanery by Rev. Fr. Silvan, the Youth Director, along with the Diocesan Executive Committee (DEXCO) members. A prayerful procession of the cross followed, drawing the faithful together in reverence and devotion as it was brought to the church premises.

The event was presided over by Dean Fr. Lawrence, who led the assembly in prayer and reflection. The lighting of the traditional lamp added a solemn and celebratory touch to the occasion, symbolizing the light of Christ carried through the youth.

A meaningful prayer service was conducted by the parish youth, focusing on the significance of the Cross in the lives of the young faithful. Their active participation was a testimony to the vibrant faith life of the deanery’s youth.

The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of around 75 youth and 60 parishioners, along with the gracious presence of several nuns from across the deanery, whose support and prayers added to the spiritual depth of the gathering.

At the conclusion of the program, Deanery Youth Coordinator Fr. Viliet expressed heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to the success of the event. Parish Priest Fr. Prem D’Souza also extended his gratitude, especially to the youth who turned out in good numbers and showed exemplary enthusiasm.

Pastoral Plan Implementation Committee Meeting held at Puneeth Sadan Shirwad

Pastoral Plan Implementation Committee Meeting held at Puneeth Sadan Shirwad

The Pastoral Plan Implementation Committee of the Diocese convened a key meeting on Thursday, 19th June 2025, at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad. The session began with a prayer led by Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, and a welcome address by Fr. Baptist Gomes, Chancellor of the Diocese. The meeting was graced by the presence of Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Fr. Anil Prasad, Regional Director, Vicar General, Chancellor, Deans, Commission Directors, Secretaries, CRI members,  

Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Diocesan Commission Coordinator, highlighted the importance of systematic pastoral planning. Bishop Duming Dias, in his message, stressed the need for unity, pastoral zeal, and collaboration aligned with regional and national pastoral visions.

Fr. Anil Prasad underlined the significance of pastoral planning in line with the Church’s vision, introducing the 7th Revised Karnataka Regional Pastoral Plan (2025–2028) and the CCBI’s national plan, Mission 2033: Journeying Towards a Synodal Church. He emphasized the four essential stages: planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, while encouraging networking for effective ministry.

Commission directors presented reports of past activities and proposed upcoming plans for July–September 2025. Bishop Duming Dias commended their efforts and urged consistent documentation and a collaborative spirit.

The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. Benjamin D’Souza, a group photograph, and fellowship over lunch. 

Catechism Teachers Empowered at Kumta Deanery Training Program

Catechism Teachers Empowered at Kumta Deanery Training Program

The Catechetical Commission of Kumta Deanery, under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, successfully conducted a one-day Catechism Teachers Training Program on Sunday, 15th June 2025, at Nirmal School, Kumta. The program gathered over 40 catechism teachers, including several religious sisters, representing 12 parishes across the deanery.

The training commenced with a heartfelt welcome by Fr. Cyprian Silva, who set the tone for the day with an insightful session on the “Spirituality of the Catechism Teacher.” In his second session, Fr. Cyprian emphasized the vital role of catechism teachers in the Church and provided practical guidance on what to teach and how to teach children effectively. He reminded the participants that catechesis is more than teaching doctrines; it is about forming faithful disciples who live their Christian calling in daily life.

The program was enriched by Fr. Santosh Lopes, Parish Priest of St. Vincent Pallotti Church, Kadle, who inspired the teachers with his talk on the “Importance of Catechism in Our Faith Journey.” He encouraged the catechists to view their ministry as a sacred mission in the transmission of faith, particularly amidst the challenges of the modern world.

A spiritually uplifting Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Fr. Cyprian and concelebrated by Fr. Mark. In his homily, Fr. Mark offered a profound reflection on the Holy Trinity, focusing on love and unity as essential values. He urged the catechists to become true witnesses of God’s love in their families and communities, while also addressing and clarifying common misconceptions about the Trinity.

Fr. Basteo graced the event with his presence and offered encouraging words to the teachers, further motivating them in their mission. Fr. Cyprian extended sincere thanks to the Superior and the St. John the Baptist Convent (CSST) Sisters for their generous hospitality and support in hosting the program. He also appreciated the priests of the deanery for encouraging the participation of teachers and conveyed special gratitude to Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his continuous support and encouragement in promoting faith formation across the diocese.