The Diocesan Family Commission organized a comprehensive Marriage Preparation Course.

The Diocesan Family Commission organized a comprehensive Marriage Preparation Course.

The Diocesan Family Commission organized a comprehensive Marriage Preparation Course at DPC Hall, Shirwad, from October 18th to 20th, 2024. 32 participants attended the three-day residential course.  The course aimed to provide a thorough understanding of marriage’s spiritual and practical aspects, equipping participants with knowledge and skills for a strong, enduring, and spiritually fulfilling marriage.

Curriculum Highlight’s:

  1. Marriage as a covenant and sacrament
  2. Intimacy and effective communication
  3. Pro-life principles and holiness of body
  4. Financial management
  5. Spirituality of family life
  6. Conflict resolution and reconciliation
  7. Human anatomy and marital relations
  8. Healthy relationships with parents and in-laws
  9. Complementarity of men and women according to God’s plan
  10. Responsible parenthood
  11. Implications of canon law on marriage

The course received glowing reviews, with participants expressing deep gratitude to the commission for its dedication to fostering strong, healthy marriages.” 

 

Karwar Diocesan Laity Convention held at Karwar

Karwar Diocesan Laity Convention held at Karwar

On 17th, October the Karwar Diocesan Laity Convention witnessed an inspiring turnout of 122 members, who gathered for a day of reflection and learning at St. Joseph’s College Hall. The event commenced with a ceremonial lamp-lighting, symbolizing enlightenment and the presence of the Holy Spirit, followed by a heartfelt prayer led by Rev.Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General.

The highlight of the convention was the engaging session by our resource person, Fr. Veeresh Moras from the Shimoga diocese. He addressed the current scenario of the Laity in today’s Indian context, emphasizing the vital role that lay members play within the Church and society. Fr. Moras encouraged attendees to be vigilant, proactive, and enthusiastic in their mission as evangelizers, fostering a deeper connection with their faith and community.

The convention provided a valuable platform for discussion and reflection on the responsibilities of the Laity, reinforcing their integral part in the Church’s mission. Attendees left inspired to take on new roles and challenges in their spiritual journey.Fr. Lancy Rodrigues thanked all participants for their engagement and look forward to future gatherings that continue to empower the Laity within our diocese.

Karwar Diocesan Laity Convention held at Karwar

Karwar Diocesan Laity Convention held at Karwar

On 17th October, the Karwar Diocesan Laity Convention witnessed an inspiring turnout of 122 members who gathered for a day of reflection and learning at St. Joseph’s College Hall. The event commenced with a ceremonial lamplighting, symbolizing enlightenment and the presence of the Holy Spirit, followed by a heartfelt prayer led by Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General.

The highlight of the convention was the engaging session by our resource person, Fr. Veeresh Moras from the Shimoga diocese. He addressed the current scenario of the laity in today’s Indian context, emphasizing the vital role that lay members play within the church and society. Fr. Moras encouraged attendees to be vigilant, proactive, and enthusiastic in their mission as evangelizers, fostering a deeper connection with their faith and community.

The convention provided a valuable platform for discussion and reflection on the responsibilities of the laity, reinforcing their integral part in the church’s mission. Attendees left inspired to take on new roles and challenges in their spiritual journey.Fr. Lancy Rodrigues thanked all participants for their engagement and looks forward to future gatherings that continue to empower the laity within our diocese.

Karwar Diocesan Executive Members of the Parish, Women’s Meet at Karwar.

Karwar Diocesan Executive Members of the Parish, Women’s Meet at Karwar.

Karwar Diocese women’s commission conducted a one-day program for the executive members of the parish women’s on the 16th of October 2024. More than 220 women participated in the program. Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, encouraged and motivated the women through the SWOT analysis to focus on strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, to build up on strengths and opportunities so that weaknesses and threats could be reduced for our all-round empowerment in the Diocese. He felt happy to see so many women leaders emerging in the Diocese; he encouraged the service of the Diocesan women commission secretary, the Deanery sister coordinators and the Diocesan team.

Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, the Vicar General, spoke about the women and their role as we enter into the Jubilee year. And Sr. Mabel explained to the women, ‘Guidelines of the Women Commission.’ Mrs. Victoria Rodrigues shared a few points on Women and law. Mrs. Perpeth Lopes and Mrs. Anita Rodrigues shared their experience of attending National Conference in Jharsuguda, Orissa.

The election for the Diocesan executive team is held, and a new team is formed.  The team which served for the past 2 years was also thanked, as was Fr. Nirmal Kumar, who remained as a strong support and encouragement through the preparation of this program till the completion of the same. The sisters of St. Michael’s convent generously accommodated our program in their hall. We concluded the program with a sumptuous meal.

Seminar for the Annual Renewal of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

Seminar for the Annual Renewal of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion.

The Liturgical Commission of the Diocese of Karwar conducted a one-day seminar for the annual renewal of extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion. It was held at Infant Jesus Parish Hall in Prabhat Nagar. The seminar was well attended by 131 participants from various parishes of Bhatkal, Honavar and Kumta deaneries. Fr. Nirmal, the organizer of the seminar and the secretary of the liturgical commission of the diocese, welcomed the participants and began the seminar with a catechesis on how we can pray with the church through the prayer of the church, Then a solemn celebration of the prayer was led by Mr. Epiphanes Fernandes. A catechesis was given on the progress of the Synodal journey by Fr. Nirmal. Mr. Stephan Almeida, an emerging, prolific speaker of the diocese, spoke with experience about “what it means to be an EMHC member and responsibilities attached to this ministry.

This year the diocesan focus was studying all 4 documents of the II Vatican Council Documents, and it was already done through video lectures by Rev. Dr. Anthony Dias, Rev. Dr. Richard Rodrigues, Rev. Dr. Valerian Sequeira, and Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Cruz with Fr. Salvador Rodrigues, Former Director of Communication Centre of the Diocese, with Fr. John Rodrigues, the Rector, Fr. Steven Dsouza, Director of KDDC,and Fr. Stewart Fernandes, the present director of Communication Centre. Fr. Nirmal made a special expose of the Sacrosanctum Concilium at the occasion.

The event ended with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by the Dean of Honavar Deanery, Rev. Fr. Thomas Fernandes. On behalf of the participants, Mr. Dany Gonsalves thanked the organizer, Fr. Nirmal, for taking all the trouble to arrange this seminar in a closer vicinity, which became convenient for the participants. He had a special word of appreciation for Fr. Gabriel Lopes, the parish priest, for providing all the logistical support. A delicious meal gave a fitting conclusion to the seminar.

Jubilee 2025 Planning Committee Meeting

Jubilee 2025 Planning Committee Meeting

On 9th October 2024, the Jubilee 2025 Planning Committee held a meeting at Puneeth Sadan, Karwar, attended by Bishop Duming Dias, Vicar General Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Judicial Vicar Fr. Valerian Sequeira, Chancelor  Fr. Baptist Gomes, all Deans, Commission Directors, and the CRI President and Secretary. The meeting started with a prayer video led by Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Communication Director, followed by a welcome address from Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General.

Bishop Duming Dias delivered a keynote speech emphasizing the significance of the jubilee, leading to fruitful discussions on planning and organizing the upcoming celebrations. There was discussion Jubilee on celebration reports of Deanery meetings. Many suggestions were accepted, and a brief plan was made ready. Bishop Duming Dias verbalized the vote of thanks to all those who were present for the meeting. The planning committee meeting was ended with the meal. 

Diocesan Youth Commission Report on Jubilate Deo – Kajubag Deanery Youth Cultural Event

Diocesan Youth Commission Report on Jubilate Deo – Kajubag Deanery Youth Cultural Event

On the 29th of September 2024, the Kajubag Deanery hosted its much-anticipated cultural event, Jubilate Deo, at the Sadashivgad Parish Hall, with the participation of 140 youth. The event was organized under the leadership of Fr. Wilson Dsouza, the Deanery Youth Coordinator, along with the dedicated deanery team.

The day began with an opening session led by Fr. Nirmal Miranda, who spoke on the theme, “Youth are Pilgrims of Hope.” He emphasized the role of the youth in building a hopeful future, inspiring them to embrace their journey with faith and positivity. The second session, led by Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, the Diocesan Youth Director, addressed a critical issue faced by many young people today depression. His talk was not only informative but interactive, featuring activities designed to help the youth understand and cope with mental health challenges.

The program was filled with vibrant activities, including group animation led by the DEXCO team and also sessions that encouraged teamwork and creativity. After lunch, the cultural segment commenced, where each parish presented various performances such as skits, songs, dances, and mono acting, showcasing their talents and promoting a sense of community.

The event was well-attended by deanery priests, who provided support and encouragement throughout the day. Jubilate Deo was a resounding success, blending faith, learning, and culture, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.

Formation & Training Workshop was conducted by SSVP Central Council, Karwar

Formation & Training Workshop was conducted by SSVP Central Council, Karwar

On 22nd Sep 2024, a day formation & training workshop was conducted by SSVP Central Council, Karwar, at St. Anthony School Hall, Sirsi. 5 conferences of Sirsi Deanery have taken place. St. Anthony Parish, Infant Jesus Parish, Don Bosco Parish, Sampkhand Parish, and Manchikari Parish conference executive members had taken part. The event was begun with an opening prayer by Rev. Fr . Sebastian Pinto, Spiritual Director, SSVP. Brother Walter Matris, West Indian Regional Coordinator, spoke on Formation; later, Bro conducted a workshop on handling the account. Rev. Fr. Sebastian Pinto presided over the program and offered the Holy Mass. SSVP Central Council President Mr. Francis A. Fernandes and executive members hosted the event successfully.

leadership Training Program for Deanery Youth Office bearers by Diocesan Youth Commission

leadership Training Program for Deanery Youth Office bearers by Diocesan Youth Commission

A leadership training program for deanery office bearers was held on 22nd September at Holy Rosary Convent, Honavar, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The event had 53 participants and was inaugurated by Fr. Peter Mendonca, the chief guest.

The sessions were led by Fr. Silvan, the youth director, along with Dexco members. The training included animation, group discussions, interactive sessions, and group activities that encouraged active participation and leadership development. Participants also shared suggestions on improving their roles and responsibilities.

The day concluded with the celebration of the Eucharist, which was presided over by Vicar General Fr. Richard Rodrigues, marking a reflective and spiritual end to the program. The event was a fruitful learning experience, equipping the participants with the necessary skills to lead effectively. 

Marriage Preparation Course at Puneet Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

Marriage Preparation Course at Puneet Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

The Marriage Preparation Course was organized by the Diocesan Family Commission at DPC Hall, Shirwad, from September 13th to 15th, 2024, with 33 participants attending the three-day event. The course aimed to provide a thorough understanding of the various dimensions of marriage, both practical and spiritual.

The curriculum included a broad range of topics. Participants delved into the nature of marriage as both a covenant and a sacrament, exploring its sacred significance and divine purpose. The course emphasized the importance of developing intimacy and effective communication skills, key elements for a successful partnership.

Natural family planning and pro-life principles were discussed to help couples understand and navigate family planning responsibly. Financial management within marriage was another crucial topic, providing practical advice on managing family finances. The spirituality of family life was addressed to highlight the deeper spiritual aspects of marriage.

Conflict resolution and reconciliation strategies were also covered, offering tools for managing and overcoming marital disagreements. Participants learned about human anatomy in the context of marital relations, enhancing their understanding of physical aspects of marriage.

The course also included discussions on maintaining healthy relationships with parents and in-laws, the complementarity of men and women according to God’s plan, and the principles of responsible parenthood. Additionally, the implications of canon law on marriage were examined, giving couples insight into the legal and ecclesiastical aspects of their commitment.

Overall, the course aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for building a strong, enduring, and spiritually fulfilling marriage. The participants found the course very helpful for their future and appreciated the efforts of the commission.