Meeting of Deans and Secretaries of Diocesan Commissions

Meeting of Deans and Secretaries of Diocesan Commissions

The meeting of Deans and Secretaries of Diocesan Commissions was called at Punit Sadan on June 25, 2024. It began with the invocation of the Holy Spirit by the coordinating secretary of all commissions, Rev. Fr. Nirmal Miranda. He welcomed the bishop and all those present and invited them to have a fruitful interactive session. The bishop, who was meeting the secretaries for the first time, gave the key note address in which he praised those present for silently working without making any public show and explained to them the importance of deans and various commissions for the growth of the diocese. He urged the creation of second- and third-line leadership among priests, and then he enthusiastically listened to all reports of the activities of commissions. Time was given for interaction and clarification, and then he gave them a series of guidelines from his experience as director of the Diocesan Pastoral Center: planning, executing, and reporting.
Bishop thanked Fr. Alex Fernandes (family), Fr. John Rodrigues (vocations), Fr. Royston Fernandes (youth), and Salvador Rodrigues (communication and evangelization) for their dedicated service for many years and wished the best of his support to the incoming secretaries, Fr. Sachin D’Souza (family), Fr. Stewart Fernandes (communication and evangelization), and Fr. Silvan Rodrigues (youth and vocations).
The bishop then thanked everyone present for their generous availability. 

Meeting of Deans and Secretaries of Diocesan Commissions

Meeting of Deans and Secretaries of Diocesan Commissions

The meeting of Deans and Secretaries of Diocesan Commissions was called at Punit Sadan on 25th of June 2024.  It began with invocation of the Holy Spirit by the coordinating secretary of all commissions Rev. Fr. Nirmal Miranda. He welcomed the Bishop and all those present and invited them to have a fruitful interactive session. The Bishop who was meeting the secretaries for the first time gave the key note address in which he praised those present for silently working without making any public show and explained to them the importance of Deans and various commissions for the growth of the Diocese. He urged to create second and third-line leadership among priests and then he enthusiastically listened to all reporting of the activities of commissions. Time was given for interaction and clarification and then gave them a series of guidelines from his experience as director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, planning, executing and reporting.

Bishop thanked Fr. Alex Fernandes (Family), Fr. John Rodrigues (Vocation), Fr. Royston Fernandes (youth), and Salvador Rodrigues (communication/ evangelization) for their dedicated service for many years and wished best of his support to the incoming secretaries Fr.Sachin D’Souza (Family), Fr.Stewart Fernandes (communication/ evangelization), Fr.Silvan Rodrigues (youth/Vocations).

Bishop then thanked everyone present for their generous availability.

 

Very Rev. Fr. Baptist Gomes took over as the New Chancellor of the Diocese of Karwar

Very Rev. Fr. Baptist Gomes took over as the New Chancellor of the Diocese of Karwar

On 25th June 2024, in the Presence of Bishop Duming Dias, very Rev. Fr. Baptist Gomes took over as the New Chancellor of the Diocese of Karwar. Bishop Duming had heap of praises for Very Rev. Fr. Victor Dias the outgoing Chancellor for his dedicated and sincere service for the past 8 years. Rev.Fr. Baptist Gomes professed his Credo and took the oath of fidelity in bishop’s chapel when all the deans and secretaries of various commissions were present for their planning session. Then the files were exchanged and documents were signed. Rev. Fr. Baptist holds a doctorate in the Canon Law. Everyone thanked the Lord and wished best of luck to the new Chancellor. 

Diocesan Commission for Catechetical Apostolate organized a seminar for the Catechism Teachers

Diocesan Commission for Catechetical Apostolate organized a seminar for the Catechism Teachers

Diocesan Commission for Catechetical Apostolate organized a one day seminar for the teachers involved in the catechetical ministry in three deaneries Honavar, Kumta and Bhatkal respectively. 183 members participated. The workshop began with the Sunday Eucharist by our Bishop Most Rev Bishop Duming Dias in which he insisted the need of faith and personal witnessing most necessary for the teaching of Christian Truths. The height of his presence was the talk he gave about the Fundamentals of teaching, an aid to catechism Lesson Planning. Rev Dr Stany Pinto beautifully presented en expose of Sacro Sancto concilium as Preparation for the Jubilee 2025. He invited the teachers to be bearers of Christ in order to be effective teachers. The Diocesan Secretary of the Commission Rev Nirmal Miranda summed up the need to accept this as a call and Divine mandate. He clarified certain terminologies and everyone was happy with the themes and material supplied. Fr Thomas the Dean of the Honavar deanery moderated the session. 

Diocesan Liturgical Commission

Diocesan Liturgical Commission

Diocesan Liturgical commission conducted a course on Theology of the Eucharist on 15th and 16th of June 2024. It was organized for those who were training to be the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion in different parishes of our diocese. It was held at the Punith Sadan, the Diocesan Pastoral Centre.
Most. Rev. Duming Dias, Bishop of the Diocese inaugurated the seminar with the Eucharistic celebration and stressed the need of personal holiness in life grounded on Gospel values.
Fr. Roshan Fernandes beautifully highlighted “Passover of the Old Testament as the foreshadow of the present day Eucharist and the close relationship between both in the history of Salvation. The session conducted by Fr Sachin summed up the Sacraments, their meaning, way of administering them and effects in recipients life. Fr Gabriel on the other hand insisted participants to have personal holiness, prayer, trust in God’s mercy and to do little things with great love. Fr Nirmal Miranda spoke elaborately on sacrament of the Eucharist, its relation to priesthood, ordinary and extraordinary ministers of the sacrament of the Eucharist and also various ministries prevalent in the church.
The final day of the seminar began with prayer of the church and a brief catechesis on the liturgy of the hours followed by Eucharistic celebration by Fr Nirmal Kumar Miranda who reminded participants to be persons close to Christ. He gave elaborate guidelines regarding the life and mission of EMHC. This included “to hold most Holy Jesus in hand, we need to be holy persons in family in the church, in society and specially being holy in all that they do. Every one expressed satisfaction over the different sessions, its content and presentation. They did have heap of words of praise for the organizers and domestic staff for comfortable stay and food. Thus the seminar ended with distribution of the certificate by Fr Nirmal Miranda director of DPC. 

Marriage Enrichment Program Receives Excellent Response in Honavar Deanery

Marriage Enrichment Program Receives Excellent Response in Honavar Deanery

The Marriage Enrichment Programme was held on 16th June 2024, at Prathibhodaya, Honavar for the young married couples of Honavar Deanery. The event brought together approximately 160 participants, including both married couples and singles from the various parishes of the deanery. This day-long programme was organized by the Diocesan Family Commission to provide insightful guidance and strengthen the bonds between young married couples.
The presence of Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, the Bishop of Karwar was a significant highlight of the event. His Excellency presided over the Eucharist and emphasized upon the sacredness of the marital bond. He offered prayers and extended best wishes to all the married couples present.
The programme featured two insightful talks that addressed various aspects of married life. The first talk was delivered by Mrs. Irene Rebello, focusing on the balance between family-oriented and career-oriented life, and the influence of social media on family life. Her presentation shed light on the challenges young couples face in balancing their career with family responsibilities giving advices to successfully eliminate these problems to a great extent, and she also discussed how social media can both positively and negatively impact the families.
The second talk was presented by Dr. Antonio and Dr. Wilma Carvalo, who eloquently spoke about the domestic family as an image of the Holy Trinity and the importance of openness to life. They highlighted that the strength of the Catholic Church is deeply rooted in the domestic church, pointing out that the example set by Holy Family of Nazareth and family members is impactful in the upbringing of the children. They also emphasized upon keeping open to the gift of children given by God.
Following the talks, the participants engaged in group discussions, allowing them to share their experiences and learn from each other. After the group discussions, each group presented their reports, highlighting key takeaways and raising relevant questions. A clarification session followed, during which experts addressed the questions and provided further guidance on the issues raised.
The event also catered to the physical well-being of the participants by providing meals and breakfast. The meals were not only a time for nourishment but also an opportunity for informal interactions and fellowship among the attendees.
Overall, the Marriage Enrichment Programme was a resounding success, offering valuable insights, and providing spiritual enrichment to all who attended. The positive feedback from the participants underscores the importance and effectiveness of such initiatives in supporting and enriching marital relationships. 

Executive body meeting Women Commission held on 11th June 2024

Executive body meeting Women Commission held on 11th June 2024

The day began with the Eucharistic Celebration. At 10.30 am Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dais presided over the meeting. The members present for the meeting are: Rev. Fr. Nirmal Miranda – All commission Coordinator, Sr. Mabel Pinto DHM, the Diocesan Secretary for women Commission. The Diocesan women cell office bearers, Deanery Sister-coordinators and the Deanery women leaders. Totally 21 members participated in this gathering. Rev. Fr. Nirmal Kumar cordially welcomed the gathering. Thereafter, the executive members of the Diocesan women Commission felicitated Bishop Duming Dias, with joy. The report of the women commission was highlighted through PPT by Sr. Mabel Pinto. Each deanery leader got the opportunity to share about the activities taken place in their respective deanery. Bishop appreciated the work that is been implemented in and through the Parish, Deanery as well as Diocesan level women’s commission. The bishop then guided the commission to reach the higher goals through the commission. He spoke
• Training of the trainers needs to be organized, for women leader of the diocese.
• To build and strengthen local governance and motivate leadership at panchayat and taluk level. The already existing leaders need to be felicitated and encouraged.
• A financial backbone is a must and that need to be created for better functioning of
the Women commission.
Other points brought to the discussions were: Annual Retreat for women. Program for Widows, Income generating process in women commission for economic stability, 6th National Conference of Women commission, at Odisha in September 2024 and Annual contribution of women towards Diocesan women’s commission. The Diocesan women Commission Secretary Sr. Mabel Pinto thanked all those who all the participants. The bishop blessed the gathering, thus the meeting Concluded with Hymn to mother Mary. 

Diocesan Family Commission Charts Course for Strengthening Family Values: Meeting Highlights and Future Plans

Diocesan Family Commission Charts Course for Strengthening Family Values: Meeting Highlights and Future Plans

On June 1st, 2024, the members of the Diocesan Family Commission convened a meeting with the new Bishop for the first time at DPC Hall, Puneet Sadan, starting at 10:30 am. Brother Joji Velamarthy presented a brief report of the activities conducted by the Diocesan Family Commission during the previous year (2023-24), while Father Sachin D’souza presented the plan for the upcoming year. The plan for 2024-25 includes:

Conducting Marriage Preparation courses from September to March.

Hosting Marriage Enrichment programs in June and July for the various deaneries within our Diocese.

Implementing Training of Trainers (TOT) with the assistance of certified resource persons.

Establishing Family cells throughout the Diocese.

Introducing Moral Education initiatives in schools.


The Bishop expressed enthusiasm for the Family Commission’s plan for the upcoming year but also provided additional guidelines: 


Establishing teams at the deanery level to support the Family Commission.


Bringing experienced resource persons from outside the Diocese to initiate Family cells in all parishes within a period of 2 or 3 years.


Initiating Remote, Proximate, and Immediate Marriage Preparation courses.


Promoting the celebration of marriage jubilees and anniversaries in the parishes.


Promoting the celebration of grandparents’ and parents’ day in the parishes.


Identifying talented individuals with leadership qualities from the deaneries to assist the Family Commission.


Promoting the Missionary Families of Christ within the Diocese.


Forming a trained resource team to assist the Family Commission (TOT).


In conclusion, the Family Commission meeting was highly insightful. Key issues were successfully addressed, and valuable perspectives were shared. The collaborative spirit and open communication displayed by all participants were commendable.

Inaugural Mass of the Holy Cross Seminary, Shirwad

Inaugural Mass of the Holy Cross Seminary, Shirwad

On June 4th, 2024, the Inaugural Mass of the Holy Spirit for the seminarians of the Diocesan Minor Seminary was celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, at the Seminary Chapel in Shirwad at 6:30 pm. presently, the Minor Seminary hosts 22 seminarians, including 7 newcomers.

At the beginning of the Mass, the Bishop welcomed everyone, particularly the newcomers, and expressed his gratitude to the parents and the parish priests who have encouraged them to join the seminary. He also invited all present to pray for them in a special way during the Mass.

The celebration of the Eucharist was solemn and accompanied by a melodious choir led by the seminarians. The Formators, staff, and priests from the Bishop’s house were present for this celebration. During his homily, the Bishop emphasized the importance of the gifts of the Holy Spirit in embarking on a new journey in life and persevering until the next stage.

The seminarians were deeply moved by the celebration of the Eucharist and expressed their gratitude to God, the Bishop, and the priests. Following the Mass, a sumptuous dinner was arranged for all at the Seminary refectory. After dinner, the Rector of the Seminary, Fr. John Rodrigues, thanked the Bishop and the priests for celebrating the Mass. He also expressed gratitude to the seminarians and the kitchen staff for their assistance in organizing the Mass and the supper.

Filled with new life and zeal from this experience, the staff and students are committed to continuing their mission and formation to the best of their ability.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.”

Embracing the Call: Three Brothers Ordained to the Diaconate.

Embracing the Call: Three Brothers Ordained to the Diaconate.

Diocese of Karwar: On the 22nd of May, 2024, the Holy Cross Church in Shirwad witnessed a significant and joyous occasion as three brothers, Anil Rodrigues, Francis Fernandes, and Milton Souza, were ordained to the diaconate by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. This sacred event was a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of these young men to their calling.

Deacon Anil Rodrigues, hailing from Karikurva-Hosad, embarked on his spiritual journey at the diocesan minor seminary. He pursued his philosophical and theological studies at St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary in Bangalore. Completing his pre-diaconate ministry at Holy Cross Church in Shirali, Anil’s commitment and devotion were evident to all who knew him. His proud parents, Mr. Leo Rodrigues and Mrs. Mary Rodrigues, were present to witness this milestone in their son’s life.

Deacon Francis Fernandes comes from the serene town of Gokarna. Like his fellow deacons, he began his formation in the diocesan minor seminary and continued his philosophical and theological education at St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bangalore. Francis’ journey has been one of deep faith and service, supported by the love and prayers of his family and community. He is proud son of Mr. Larence Fernandes and Mrs. Santan Fernandes.

Deacon Milton Souza, the son of Mr. Everest Souza and Mrs. Fatima Souza from Gerusoppa-Allanki, followed a path of dedication and spiritual growth. After his initial formation in the minor seminary, he pursued his major seminary studies at St. Joseph’s Seminary in Jeppu, Mangalore. Before his ordination, Milton completed his pre-diaconate ministry at the diocesan farm in Chipgi, Sirsi, exemplifying his commitment to serving the Church and its people.

The ordination ceremony, meticulously organized, was attended by huge number of priests, religious, family members, relatives, and friends of the candidates. It was an inspiring celebration of the richness of God’s call. Bishop Duming, in his homily, emphasized the importance of God’s call, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the essence of service in the diaconate. He expressed profound gratitude to the parents of the new deacons for their sacrifice and dedication to the Diocese of Karwar.


Following the Mass, a short felicitation program was held, honoring the newly ordained deacons. The celebration concluded with a sumptuous meal, bringing together the community in a spirit of joy and fellowship.
This ordination marks a significant chapter in the lives of Deacon Anil, Deacon Francis, and Deacon Milton, as they begin their service to the Church. Their journey is a shining example of faith and dedication, inspiring all who were present at this blessed event.

Warmest congratulations to Deacons Anil Rodrigues, Francis Fernandes, and Milton Souza on your ordination to the diaconate. May the Holy Spirit guide and inspire you as you embark on this sacred journey of service and devotion. May you be blessed with wisdom, strength, and compassion as you serve the Church and its people.