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.

 

Youth of Kumta Deanery Gather for “Novo Spiritus,” A Day of Renewal and Celebration

Youth of Kumta Deanery Gather for “Novo Spiritus,” A Day of Renewal and Celebration

On 8th December 2024, Kumta Deanery organized a one-day youth gathering named “Novo Spiritus” at St. John the Baptist Church Hall Kumta. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 120 youth from various parishes across the deanery.There were 5 priests present for the inauguration program. The youth of Head Bandar Parish set the tone for the day with a soulful prayer song, singing the Jubilee anthem.

Fr. Rohan Gonsalves explained the significance behind the name Novo Spiritus (“New Spirit”), emphasizing the need for spiritual renewal. The inauguration was marked by an innovative gesture of attaching green leaves to a dried tree, symbolizing the rejuvenation of life through a renewed spirit.Fr. Chrysostom Rodrigues highlighted the importance of prayer in youth life. Fr. Cyprian Silva spoke about the pivotal role of youth in society and the Church.Fr. Rohan Gonsalves encouraged the youth to strive for excellence in their personal and professional lives. Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, who spoke about the role and significance of the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM) in empowering youth and fostering leadership within the Church.

The diocesan DEXCO team, led by Royston Dias, conducted an engaging animation session, which energized the participants. All the participants were given a meal, which was blessed by Fr. Antony Rodrigues, Dean of Kumta deanery.

Marriage Preparation Course at Puneeth Sadan Empowers 26 Participants for a Stronger Future

Marriage Preparation Course at Puneeth Sadan Empowers 26 Participants for a Stronger Future

The three-day residential Marriage Preparation Course, held from 6th to 8th December 2024 at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, concluded successfully, with 26 participants gaining valuable insights into the spiritual and practical dimensions of married life.The course covered a vast syllabus with interactive sessions, open discussions, and hands-on activities, creating a supportive environment for participants to reflect on and prepare for their journey into marriage.

Participants expressed their appreciation for the course, particularly highlighting the practical advice and guidance offered by the resource team. Many described it as a transformative experience, equipping them with the tools to navigate challenges and build a strong foundation for their marital life in the future.

The course was concluded with a certificate ceremony, and the family commission expressed its dedication to conduct the marriage preparation courses in the future.

 

Confirmation Sacrament at St. Joseph Church, Mirjan, Kumta.

Confirmation Sacrament at St. Joseph Church, Mirjan, Kumta.

The 1st Sunday of Advent wasn’t only a beginning of the new liturgical year, but it also made an indelible mark in the history of St. Joseph Church, Mirjan, as 30 children were confirmed by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

The day began with the arrival of the bishop at the convent and with the melodious singing and band by the Kumta Band, which geared up the procession and later the Eucharist celebration. There were 6 priests present.

The bishop, in his homily, urged the confirmands to live their lives in accordance with the teachings of the Church and to be witnesses of Christ’s love in the world. The bishop, after preaching, confirmed the children.

After the confirmation at a stage program, the bishop was honored with a shawl and the garland. A statue of the patron saint St. Joseph was presented to the bishop as he had visited his flock for the first time. In his address, he appreciated the event organized in a systematic manner. The choir was exceptionally good and about a thousand people witnessed the beautiful and meaningful liturgy conducted by the confirmation students.

All the invitees and the hosts were offered afternoon lunch prepared and sponsored by the 30 candidates’ parents. A large magnificent gigantic altar and the shamiyan welcomed the gathering. All those who attended the program and the liturgy expressed their joy at a meaningful and successful event. 

St. Francis Xavier Feast Celebrated at Diocesan Shrine, Chandavar

St. Francis Xavier Feast Celebrated at Diocesan Shrine, Chandavar

The Feast of St. Francis Xavier was celebrated with great fervor and devotion at the Diocesan Shrine in Chandavar on December 3rd  2024. The solemn celebration was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

The celebration began with a grand procession, followed by the Holy Mass, which saw the participation of 42 priests and a large gathering of faithful from across the diocese. Bishop Duming Dias, in his homily, highlighted the missionary zeal and unwavering faith of St. Francis Xavier, urging the congregation to emulate his spirit of evangelization and commitment to Christ. Also, he called the faithful to live out their faith with courage and commitment, just as the saint did.

The choir added a spiritual ambiance to the celebration with their melodious hymns. Following the Mass, a felicitation program was held for Bishop Duming Dias. The parish community expressed their gratitude and appreciation for his dedicated leadership and tireless service to the Diocese of Karwar. The bishop, in his response, thanked the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Faustine Furtado, and the assistant parish priest, Rev. Fr. Wilson Pinto; the bishop also thanked the faithful for their active participation.

The event saw the participation of numerous priests, religious, and lay faithful from across the diocese, making it a memorable celebration of faith and unity. The Feast of St. Francis Xavier at the Chandavar Shrine remains a beacon of inspiration, drawing pilgrims and devotees closer to Christ through the intercession of this great missionary saint.