Leadership Seminar for Parish Women Cell Office Bearers of Haliyal Deanery.

Leadership Seminar for Parish Women Cell Office Bearers of Haliyal Deanery.

The Women Commission of the Diocese organized a one-day leadership seminar for the office bearers of the Parish Women Cells of the Haliyal Deanery. The event aimed to empower women leaders to guide and inspire their communities in both family and church life.

The seminar began with a prayerful blessing from Rev. Fr. Arun Fernandes, who invoked God’s grace on the participants and the proceedings. The key topics addressed during the session were “Leadership of Women in Family and Church Modeled on Mary, Our Mother” by Sr. Mabel D’Cruz, CCR, who highlighted the virtues of Mary as a role model for women in leadership. “Women Leaders Under the Guidelines of the Commission” by Sr. Mabel Pinto, DHM, who outlined practical frameworks and strategies for effective leadership.

Participants engaged in group discussions on questions related to women’s leadership, which fostered deeper understanding and collaboration. The plenary session that followed was moderated by Sr. Maria Roseema, AC, ensuring fruitful dialogue and reflection. A total of 30 women leaders participated in the seminar, leaving motivated and well-equipped to guide women in their respective parishes.

The Commission expressed heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. Francis Miranda, Parish Priest of Our Lady of Miracles Church, Haliyal, for generously hosting.

Silver Jubilee Celebration at St. Michael Mission Kodse, Yellapur.

Silver Jubilee Celebration at St. Michael Mission Kodse, Yellapur.

The St. Michael Mission at Kodse, Yellapur, joyfully celebrated its Silver Jubilee on 13th January 2025, marking 25 years of faith, service, and dedication to the community. The celebration commenced with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, the Bishop of Karwar. The event witnessed the participation of numerous priests, religious sisters, and a large gathering of lay faithful, making it a memorable occasion for all.

In his homily, Bishop Duming Dias highlighted the significance of jubilees as moments of gratitude and renewal. He encouraged everyone to embrace their mission and responsibility in building a vibrant and faith-filled community.

Following the Eucharistic Celebration, a stage program was organized to commemorate the milestone. Mr. Shivram Hebbar, the local MLA, graced the event as a special guest. In his address, he emphasized the role of religion in fostering harmony and contributing to a just and good society.

The celebration concluded with heartfelt words of gratitude from Fr. Anthony D’Souza, who thanked all the individuals and groups who contributed to the success of the event.

The Silver Jubilee of St. Michael Mission Kodse stands as a testament to the unwavering faith and collective efforts of its community over the past 25 years, paving the way for a future filled with hope and service.

 

Confirmation Sacrament Celebrated at Our Lady of the Sea Church, Bankikodla.

Confirmation Sacrament Celebrated at Our Lady of the Sea Church, Bankikodla.

On 12th January 2025, Our Lady of the Sea Church, Bankikodla, was graced with the solemn celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, administered by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. 27 children received the sacrament of confirmation. The event was attended by a large number of faithful who gathered to witness this important milestone in the spiritual journey of the candidates.

During his inspiring homily, Bishop Duming Dias highlighted the significance of baptism as the foundation of Christian life and urged everyone to live as witnesses to Jesus Christ through their actions and daily lives. He encouraged the newly confirmed to embrace the gifts of the Holy Spirit and live their faith with courage and dedication.

Following the ceremony, Fr. Joachim Monteiro expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias for his spiritual leadership and for blessing the parish with his presence. He also extended thanks to all those who contributed to the success of this event, including the parishioners and organizing teams who worked tirelessly to make the day memorable.

The celebration concluded with joy and fellowship as the community prayed for the newly confirmed that they may grow in faith and remain steadfast in their commitment to Christ.

 

Infant Jesus Church, Sunksal, Celebrates the Sacrament of Confirmation

Infant Jesus Church, Sunksal, Celebrates the Sacrament of Confirmation

The Infant Jesus Church, Sunkasal, witnessed a joyous and spiritually uplifting event as 17 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation. Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.The solemn event brought together a large number of faithful, who gathered to support and celebrate this significant milestone in the spiritual journey of the confirmands.

In his inspiring sermon, Bishop Duming Dias emphasized the transformative power and importance of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians. He encouraged the newly confirmed to embrace their faith with commitment, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide them in their daily lives as witnesses to Christ’s love and truth.

The event was a deeply spiritual and joyous occasion, marked by the active participation of parishioners and the broader community. At the conclusion of the ceremony, Fr. Anthony D’Souza, parish priest, extended his heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias for his gracious presence and guidance. He also thanked all who contributed to the successful organization of this significant celebration.

The day was a beautiful testament to faith, unity, and the workings of the Holy Spirit, leaving a lasting impact on the parish community.

 

Marriage Preparation Course at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

Marriage Preparation Course at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

The three-day residential marriage preparation course was held from 10th to 12th January 2025 at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar, with 23 participants. The program aimed to prepare couples for a strong and faith-filled marital life. It included sessions on effective communication, conflict resolution, financial management, and the spiritual dimensions of marriage.

Interactive discussions, group activities, and personal reflections created a supportive environment for participants to engage deeply with the topics. The resource team provided valuable insights and practical advice, which participants found highly relevant and inspiring.

The participants took part in the Eucharist, prayers, adoration, and confession, fostering a deeper connection to God during their stay. The course concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony. Participants expressed their gratitude for the enriching experience, and the organizers reaffirmed their commitment to continuing such programs in the future.

Christmas and New Year 2025 Celebration at Ravindranath Tagore Beach, Karwar

Christmas and New Year 2025 Celebration at Ravindranath Tagore Beach, Karwar

The Christmas and New Year 2025 Beach Program was held on January 3rd, 2025, at the Mayur Varma Stage, Ravindranath Tagore Beach, Karwar. The event witnessed an overwhelming response from the community, with a large gathering of dignitaries and attendees.

The program was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, and graced by the presence of the Chief Guest, Smt. Prema T.M.R., a renowned poet and literary figure.

In her address, Smt. Prema spoke eloquently about the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His message of peace, forgiveness, and love. She also highlighted the invaluable contributions of lay leaders within the Christian community toward the betterment of society.

Bishop Dr. Duming Dias, in his presidential address, called for harmony and peace among all people. He also called the people to love each other. He encouraged the audience to live by the Good News of Jesus Christ and to be messengers of peace and goodwill in their communities.

The celebration was enriched with various cultural programs, including captivating dances, a grand opera, a Christmas tableau, and skits performed by different institutions. These performances beautifully depicted the essence of Christmas and the message of hope, joy, and unity.

The event succeeded in fostering a spirit of togetherness and spreading the good news, making it a memorable occasion for everyone present.

Christmas and New Year 2024-25 Officials’ Meet.

Christmas and New Year 2024-25 Officials’ Meet.

On 1st January 2025, a special Officials’ Meet was held at the Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Campus, Kajubag, marking the Christmas and New Year celebrations. The event was graciously hosted by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

The gathering brought together prominent officials, including Superintendent of Police Narayana M. Tahsildar Nischal Noronha, RTO John Misquith, PD of DUDC Stella Varghese, Deputy Director of Tourism and Joint Director of DIC Jayanth, and CMC President Raviraj Ankolekar.

In addition to the dignitaries, the event saw the participation of priests, religious sisters, and lay leaders. The meeting fostered a spirit of unity and collaboration, reflecting the joyous essence of the festive season.

In his address, Bishop Duming Dias stressed the importance of maintaining healthy relationships between the Church and government officials, emphasizing the need to work together for the common good of society.

Superintendent of Police Narayana M. spoke about the crucial role of collaboration between the government and the church in fostering peace and harmony in the community. He concluded his speech by extending warm New Year wishes to all present.

Deputy Director of Tourism and Joint Director of DIC Jayanth, and CMC President Raviraj Ankolekar also delivered insightful speeches. They highlighted the significance of community engagement, collective efforts for societal growth, and the role of faith-based organizations in promoting social harmony.

The occasion served as a platform to strengthen ties between the Church and civil society, highlighting the shared commitment to the growth and welfare of the community

Jubilee Year 2025 Inaugurated by Bishop of Karwar at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Kajubag, Karwar

Jubilee Year 2025 Inaugurated by Bishop of Karwar at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral Kajubag, Karwar

The Diocese of Karwar witnessed a momentous and faith-filled event on 29th December 2024, as the Jubilee Year 2025 was officially inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, at the Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubag, Karwar.

The inauguration began with an adoration of the Holy Cross and was followed by a solemn procession of the Holy Cross, symbolizing the journey of faith and gratitude for the past years of blessings. Accompanying the bishop were 11 other priests, adding to the spiritual solemnity of the occasion.

Upon reaching the baptismal pond, the bishop blessed the faithful with Holy Water, sprinkling it over the large congregation that had gathered in fervent devotion. The act of sprinkling Holy Water served as a reminder of renewal and commitment to living the Gospel values during this Jubilee Year.

During the bishop’s homily, he emphasized the significance of the Jubilee Year as a time of grace, renewal, and gratitude. He called upon everyone to embrace the year as an opportunity for deep spiritual growth and to live the Jubilee’s mission of reconciliation and renewal.

A significant number of people from the diocese participated in the celebration, demonstrating unity and gratitude to God. The inauguration marks the beginning of a year-long celebration filled with various spiritual and community activities that will reflect the theme of the Jubilee Year.

The event was a profound moment of grace, inspiring the faithful to embrace the Jubilee Year as a time of renewal, reconciliation, and commitment to the mission of the Church.

 

Christmas celebration in the Karwar Prison

Christmas celebration in the Karwar Prison

On 23rd December 2024, a meaningful and heart-touching Christmas celebration was organized by the prison ministry of India members of Karwar Diocese in the prison. The celebration began with the invoking the blessings and presence of God in our midst by Fr. Baptist. Fr. Wilson D’Souza did the master of ceremonies and also welcomed the guests with the roses and also welcomed the gathering.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, the bishop of Karwar, was personally present for the celebration along with a few priests, religious sisters, and lay faithful. The celebration was symbolically inaugurated by Bishop Duming Dias, Mr. Raghvendra, Shamala Madam, and Fr. Baptist by pouring the water into the plant.

 The program started with the Carol’s sang by Fr. Silvan and team members. Bishop Duming Dias gave the meaningful Christmas message of God who loves everyone. The God who sent his only son in the world so that he may spread his love for humanity and also to say that God is compassionate, kindly, and merciful. He explained it through some incidents. He also appreciated staff for their hard work, and thus he wished all of them and staff a very happy Christmas and prosperous new year 2025.

Mr. Raghvendra explained through the words that we sing in Carol that Jesus, who was born in a manger, gave clothing to the people who were naked; he came for all the people without any dissemination of caste, religion, etc., thus he praised the good works of Jesus Christ for humanity.

Some games were organized by Mr. Akwil and Miss Josita. And Fr. Silvan proposed the vote of thanks. Mr. Freddy, Sr. Freshina, and Pinkey distributed cake and chocolates to all the inmates. Thus, the event was a successful one. 

 Training on Local Resource Mobilization held at Shirwad, Karwar

 Training on Local Resource Mobilization held at Shirwad, Karwar

On 16–17 December 2024, KDDC hosted a two-day training program on local resource mobilization at Shirwad for the federation members representing the three dioceses: Karwar, Shivmogga, and Bhadravati. This initiative aimed to equip women with the skills and knowledge necessary to harness local resources effectively and sustainably.

The program was inaugurated by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, the Bishop of Karwar, who delivered an inspiring introductory speech. His address emphasized the importance of unity, knowledge, and empowerment among women for creating transformative change in their communities.

During his speech, the bishop encouraged participants to strengthen their bonds of collaboration, reminding them that unity is a powerful tool in mobilizing resources and fostering development. He also shared a inspiring Christmas message, urging the federation members to embody the spirit of love, hope, and generosity during the festive season.

The training sessions included interactive discussions, practical exercises, and expert inputs designed to enhance participants’ understanding of resource mobilization strategies. Participants expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to gain valuable insights and tools to improve their initiatives within their respective dioceses.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment from all federation members to work collaboratively toward the shared mission of community development and empowerment.This impactful training program marks another step in the diocesan efforts to strengthen grassroots initiatives and uplift the lives of women across the region.