Holy Cross Church, Manki Witnesses Sacred Confirmation Sacrament.

Holy Cross Church, Manki Witnesses Sacred Confirmation Sacrament.

The faithful gathered in the serene surroundings of Holy Cross Church, Manki, to witness a momentous occasion on 10th November 2024, as the sacrament of Confirmation was administered by Rt. Rev. Dr. Bishop Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

The solemn and joyous ceremony witnessed 69 candidates receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit, marking a significant milestone in their faith journey. Bishop Duming Dias, in his homily, encouraged the candidates to embrace their faith with conviction and to be witnesses of Christ in their daily lives. He spoke of the importance of the Holy Spirit in guiding and strengthening them as they continue their walk of faith in the world.

The liturgical service was filled with reverence, and the congregation participated wholeheartedly in the prayers and hymns. The candidates were anointed with holy chrism and received the laying on of hands, a profound moment symbolizing their deepening relationship with God and the Church.

Fr. Viliet Fernandes, Parish Priest of Holy Cross Church, Manki, expressed his joy at witnessing so many individuals taking this important step in their faith and thanked Bishop Duming Dias for presiding over the sacrament. The bishop was facilitated, and a certificate and rosary were distributed as memento to all the candidates who received the holy sacrament of confirmation.

The event was attended by the parish community, families, and friends, all of whom joined in celebration of the young people who received the sacrament. A reception followed the ceremony.

Karwar Diocese Welcomes Three New Priests in a Joyous Ordination Ceremony.

Karwar Diocese Welcomes Three New Priests in a Joyous Ordination Ceremony.

In a joyous and spiritually uplifting ceremony, three new priests were ordained for the Diocese of Karwar by Bishop Duming Dias at the Our Lady of Assumption Church Cathedral in Kajubag. The ordination took place amidst the prayers and celebrations of the faithful, marking a momentous occasion for the local Catholic community.

Bishop Duming Dias presided over the ordination, offering a heartfelt homily that emphasized the importance of the priesthood and role of priest. In his address, the bishop encouraged the new priests to embrace their sacred vocation with devotion, highlighting the role of the priest in guiding and uplifting the spiritual life of the community.

During the Mass, the newly ordained priests were vested in the sacred liturgical attire, symbolizing their commitment to the priestly ministry. The faithful also participated in prayers, offering their support and blessings for the new priests as they embarked on their spiritual journey.

The newly ordained priests, Fr. Milton Souza, Fr. Anil Rodrigues, and Fr. Francis Fernandes, were embraced by family, friends, and parishioners who gathered in large numbers to witness the sacred event. The ceremony was a reflection of the vibrant faith of the Karwar Diocese and the growing number of individuals answering the call to serve in the priesthood.

The ordination ceremony was followed by a reception at the church, where parishioners and well-wishers congratulated the new priests and expressed their gratitude for their willingness to serve the church and the people of Karwar Diocese.

This significant event brings renewed hope and joy to the Diocese as it continues to grow in faith and commitment to the teachings of Christ. The Diocese of Karwar remains grateful for the support of the faithful and the continued vocation to the priesthood within the local church.

“Daivik Preran” Everyday Reflection Book Launched by Bishop of Karwar.

“Daivik Preran” Everyday Reflection Book Launched by Bishop of Karwar.

In a solemn and inspiring ceremony, Priestly Ordination at Kajubag Cathedral, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, officially launched the much-awaited book “Daivik Preran” Everyday Reflection on November 11, 2024. As a project of the Ordinary Jubilee 2025, this book has been released. The event, attended by clergy, religious, and lay faithful, marked a significant moment for the local Catholic community.

The book is a collection of daily spiritual insights and meditations designed to encourage personal growth and deeper faith through everyday life. The bishop shared that the reflections were written with the aim of helping individuals cultivate a strong spiritual life in their daily routines, offering wisdom, encouragement, and a closer connection to God. Also to encourage the people to read and reflect the word of God in the families. This book will make the people love the Holy Bible and be enlightened by the scriptures. Bishop thanked all those who contributed to release this book especially Fr. Cyprian and 30 diocesan and religious priests of the diocese.

Many attendees expressed the desire to purchase their own copy of the book, which will be available at local parishes and religious outlets in the coming days.

The Young Clergy Meeting was held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad Karwar.

The Young Clergy Meeting was held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad Karwar.

The Young Clergy Meeting was held on 6th November 2024 at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, marking the first gathering since Bishop Duming Dias was ordained as bishop. The meeting was attended by 19 priests. It began with a prayer hymn. Fr. Stephen D’Souza (Jr) served as the master of ceremonies, leading the program smoothly, while Fr. Wilson D’Souza welcomed Bishop Duming Dias, the resource persons, and all the young clergy.

To honor the new bishop, Fr. Michael Pinto (Jr) and Fr. Valentine Fernandes, the senior-most among the young clergy, presented him with a garland and shawl. Fr. Cyprian Silva then read the minutes of the previous meeting. The meeting proceeded with the election of the young clergy’s president and secretary. Fr. Bostenv Nazareth was proposed and appointed as president, while Fr. Rohan Gonsalves was proposed and appointed as secretary.

The first session featured a talk by Fr. John Fernandes, drawing on his 40 years of ministry, Fr. John Fernandes shared enriching insights, including his personal journey, experiences in community life with fellow priests, and his roles in both parish and school settings.The second session was led by Fr. Baptist Gomes, the diocesan chancellor, who covered canonical topics, specifically on “temporal goods” and “Graviora Delicta.” His session was highly informative, and he addressed practical questions related to marriage and other issues posed by the young priests.

During afternoon session, each priest shared personal experiences, including both challenges and successes in ministry and mission work. This sharing created a supportive environment where priests discussed their journey, the difficulties they face, and their mission experiences.

After the sharing session, Bishop Duming Dias addressed the young clergy. He offered invaluable advice, encouraging them to be confident, positive, multi-tasking, organized, mission-oriented, and pastoral in their ministry. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. Silvan Rodrigues.

Workshop on Karwar Diocesan Strategic Pastoral Plan Held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad

Workshop on Karwar Diocesan Strategic Pastoral Plan Held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad

On November 5, 2024, a workshop focusing on the Karwar Diocesan Strategic Pastoral Plan was successfully held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad. This event gathered around 60 participants, including clergy and lay leaders, each committed to understanding and implementing the diocesan vision.

The workshop commenced with a warm welcome from Rev. Fr. Baptist Gomes, who extended greetings and set a reflective tone for the day’s proceedings. Following the welcome, Rev. Fr. Nirmal Miranda, Director of the Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC), provided a comprehensive briefing on the strategic pastoral plan. Fr. Miranda highlighted the foundational goals of the plan and discussed the priorities aimed at deepening faith, fostering community engagement, and strengthening social outreach initiatives across the diocese.

The keynote address was delivered by Bishop Duming Dias, who outlined a clear roadmap for the implementation of the pastoral plan. Bishop Dias emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach in fulfilling the diocesan mission, urging participants to embrace their roles in the broader vision. He encouraged active involvement, stressing that each participant’s contribution was vital to the success of the strategic objectives set for the upcoming years.

This collaborative gathering was marked by insightful discussions and a renewed commitment to pastoral service, leaving attendees inspired to bring the diocesan vision to life in their respective communities. The event concluded with a commitment from all participants to work together for the spiritual and social growth of the diocese.

One-Day Seminar on Strategic Pastoral Planning by Bishop of Udupi

One-Day Seminar on Strategic Pastoral Planning by Bishop of Udupi

On November 4, 2024,  one-day seminar on “Strategic Pastoral Planning” was held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad. The seminar was led by Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, the Bishop of Udupi and Chairman of the CCBI Pastoral Plan Implementation Committee.

The event began with a welcome keynote by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. The event brought together 35 participants, including members of the College of Consultors, Senate members, deans, commission directors, and CRI office bearers.

Bishop Lobo shared insights on the importance of strategic planning in enhancing the church’s mission and outreach. He shared valuable insights from his experiences in the Udupi diocese, highlighting effective strategies he implemented to strengthen community engagement and pastoral care. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among different ministries and the need for adaptive planning to address the unique challenges within the diocese.

Participants engaged in constructive discussions, reflecting on how these insights could be applied in their own contexts. The seminar concluded with a collective commitment to enhance pastoral planning and outreach efforts in their respective communities.

This event marked a significant step towards fostering a proactive pastoral environment, encouraging all members to contribute to the church’s mission of growth and service.

 

Parish Youth Office Bearers Training Program

Parish Youth Office Bearers Training Program

One-day training program titled “Empowering Tomorrow” for Sirsi deanery Parish youth office bearers on November 1, 2024. Held at St. Anthony’s Parish Community Hall, the event brought together 21 participants and was led by Fr. Valento Fernandes, the Deanery Youth Coordinator.

The day commenced with an input session by the Diocesan Youth Director, Fr. Silvan Rodrigues, who emphasized effective leadership qualities. His session covered essential skills such as team building, encouraging creativity, and fostering discussion. Additionally, participants engaged in various activities designed to develop team synergy, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

The program also included reading of reports, planning future events, creative exercises, animated discussions, and a series of fun-filled games that energized and connected the participants. Overall, the training aimed to inspire the youth leaders to carry forward their roles with renewed vision, responsibility, and unity within their respective parishes.

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.