Young Clergy Meeting of the Diocese of Karwar held at Honavar

Young Clergy Meeting of the Diocese of Karwar held at Honavar

The Young Clergy Meeting of the Diocese was held on 16th and 17th February 2025 at the Holy Cross Brothers House, Honavar, bringing together the young priests for fellowship, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

The first day began with an atmosphere of fraternity and joy as the priests spent time together at Joy N Joy Water Park, strengthening their bonds of brotherhood. Later, all assembled at the Holy Cross Brothers’ residence for the evening session. The evening session was compered Fr. Rohan Gonsalves. Fr. Wilson Pinto extended a warm welcome, and Fr. Francis Fernandes, Secretary, presented the report of the previous meeting. Bishop Duming Dias addressed the gathering and encouraged the young clergy with fatherly guidance. He spoke on the importance of multitasking in priestly ministry, stressing the need to balance spiritual leadership, pastoral care, administration, youth ministry, and social outreach with dedication and prudence.

The second day began with morning prayer, entrusting the day’s proceedings to the Lord. The young priests then visited Fr. Vileat Fernandes to express their condolences following the recent passing of his father. They prayed with the bereaved family and assured them of their continued support and prayers.

Later, Fr. Joachim Fernandes shared his inspiring vocation journey, reflecting on God’s call, the challenges he encountered, and the deep joy found in faithful priestly service. His testimony encouraged the young clergy to remain rooted in prayer and committed to their mission.

The meeting concluded with the solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist, the source and summit of priestly life. Fr. Sachin D’Souza proposed the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Holy Cross Brothers for their hospitality and to all who contributed to the success of the gathering. The program ended with a fellowship lunch, as the priests returned to their parishes renewed in zeal, unity, and commitment to their ministry.   

Marriage Preparation Course held at DPC Hall, Shirwad, Karwar

Marriage Preparation Course held at DPC Hall, Shirwad, Karwar

The Marriage Preparation Course was successfully conducted from 13th to 15th February 2026 at DPC Hall, Shirwad, Karwar, bringing together 46 participants in a spirit of learning, reflection, and spiritual growth. The program was organized by the Diocese of Karwar to prepare couples for the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony by deepening their understanding of married life rooted in love, fidelity, and lifelong commitment.

Throughout the three days, experienced resource persons led sessions on essential aspects of Christian married life, including intimacy and communication, conflicts and reconciliation, financial responsibility, parenting, and the vital role of faith in family life. Interactive discussions, group activities, and personal testimonies enabled participants to gain practical insights and develop realistic expectations about the joys and challenges of marriage.

The spiritual dimension of the course was given special emphasis. Participants were enriched through the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, highlighting the importance of placing Christ at the center of family life.

The program concluded with a valedictory session and the distribution of certificates. The participants expressed heartfelt gratitude for the guidance and formation received and affirmed their readiness to build Christ-centered families grounded in love, unity, and mutual respect.The Diocese remains committed to strengthening families by equipping young couples with spiritual, emotional, and practical foundations for a lifelong journey together in the Lord.

Day of Consecrated Life Celebrated with Joy and Gratitude at St. Joseph College, Karwar

Day of Consecrated Life Celebrated with Joy and Gratitude at St. Joseph College, Karwar

The Day of Consecrated Life was solemnly celebrated by the Kajubag and Kone Deaneries at St. Joseph College, Karwar, on 15th February 2026. A large number of religious sisters and brothers participated in the celebration, along with the priests of both deaneries.

The program began with a warm welcome by Fr. Stany Pinto, who also recited a meaningful shayari that beautifully set the tone for the day. The sisters representing various congregations then introduced themselves.

Reflecting on the theme, “Called Once, Lived Daily,” Fr. Stany Pinto, referring to the Gospel of John (15:16)—“You did not choose me, but I chose you”—reminded everyone that vocation is always God’s loving initiative. Every vocation begins with a personal encounter with Christ, who calls each person by name. While the call is given once, it is meant to be lived, renewed, and deepened each day through prayer, fidelity, and joyful service.

Addressing the gathering, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, expressed his deep appreciation for the dedicated and selfless service rendered by the Religious Sisters and Brothers in the Diocese. The bishop noted that such gatherings are a beautiful opportunity to come together in fraternity, prayer, and mutual encouragement. He emphasized that meeting as one family strengthens communion and renews the zeal to live out the consecrated vocation with joy and fidelity.

The Bishop graciously distributed prizes to the winners of the various games and activities. On behalf of the priests of both the Kajubag and Kone Deaneries, Fr. Ireneo Dias proposed the vote of thanks. Representing the religious men and women, CRI President Sr. Alfonsa also conveyed her sincere thanks to the bishop, the deanery priests, and all those who contributed to making the celebration meaningful and memorable. The program concluded with a fellowship meal, where all the participants gathered in a spirit of joy and fraternity.  

Blessing and Inauguration of Chapel at Tatvangi, Haliyal

Blessing and Inauguration of Chapel at Tatvangi, Haliyal

The newly constructed chapel at Tatvangi, Haliyal, was solemnly blessed and inaugurated on 13 February 2026 by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. The bishop was accompanied by the parish priest, Fr. Francis Miranda; Assistant Priest, Fr. Arun Fernandes; and Fr. Wilson Pinto, in the presence of a large gathering of the faithful and people of goodwill.

The bishop was warmly welcomed by the people in a joyful procession. He then cut the ribbon and officially inaugurated the chapel. During the Holy Eucharistic Celebration, the Bishop blessed the chapel and people with holy water and the new altar with holy oil.

After the Mass, a felicitation program was held in honor of the Bishop. In his address, the bishop appreciated the unity and harmony shared by people of different religions in the village. He reminded the faithful that the chapel is a house of prayer and encouraged everyone to maintain reverence and to visit the chapel frequently. He also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the benefactors and donors who supported the construction of the chapel.

As a sign of communal harmony, children from other religious communities also presented a cultural dance. The program concluded with a vote of thanks by the parish priest, who acknowledged the cooperation and support of all those who contributed to making the event meaningful and memorable.   

Karwar Diocesan Jubilee Housing Project Unveiled

Karwar Diocesan Jubilee Housing Project Unveiled

The Diocesan Jubilee Housing Project was symbolically unveiled on 12th February 2026 in the presence of Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, along with the diocesan clergy. The symbolic structure of a house was unveiled by Msgr. Simon Tellis together with Bishop Duming Dias, the Vicar General, and the Chancellor.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Duming Dias explained the vision and objectives of the Jubilee Housing Project, which aims to provide dignified housing for the poor and the needy as part of the Jubilee celebrations. The project envisions the construction of one house in each parish, making it a collective mission of the entire Diocese.

The project will be supported through the generous contribution of philanthropist Mr. Michael D’Souza and other benefactors, collections through the Lenten Dumb Box, contributions from beneficiary families, love offerings in cash or kind such as building materials from well-wishers, volunteers and donors, free labour offered by members of various parish associations, and support from agencies and NGOs. Parishes that are financially well-off are encouraged to adopt a house in a village parish by offering full or partial sponsorship as a sign of diocesan solidarity.

This Jubilee initiative invites every parish and faithful to participate actively in building not just houses, but hope, dignity, and a more compassionate diocesan family.

Diocese of Karwar Announces the “Year of the Poor”

Diocese of Karwar Announces the “Year of the Poor”

The Diocese of Karwar officially announced the “Year of the Poor” on 12th February 2026, marking a significant pastoral initiative to strengthen the Church’s commitment to the poor and marginalized.

The proclamation took place in the presence of Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, along with the Vicar General Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Chancellor Rev. Fr. Baptist Gomes, and priests from across the Diocese. The decree declaring the Year of the Poor was solemnly read by Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues.

The unveiling of the banner symbolizing the Year of the Poor was carried out by Bishop Duming Dias along with the seven deans of the diocese, signifying the collective responsibility of all deaneries in this mission.

In his address, the Bishop urged all priests and faithful to make this year a fruitful time of concrete service, compassion, and solidarity with the poor. He called upon parishes and institutions to initiate meaningful outreach programs in the spirit of the Holy Father’s new encyclical Dilexit Te encouraging a renewed commitment to social concern and Gospel values.

The Diocese hopes that this Year of the Poor will inspire deeper sensitivity towards the needy and foster a culture of sharing, justice, and care for the vulnerable in every parish and community.

St. Anthony Church, Ternamakki, celebrated Missionary Childhood Day with fervor.

St. Anthony Church, Ternamakki, celebrated Missionary Childhood Day with fervor.

St. Anthony Church, Tarnamakki, joyfully celebrated Missionary Childhood Day on 8th February 2026 with the enthusiastic participation of children and animators. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Diocesan Secretary for the Commission for Proclamation and Evangelization, Diocese of Karwar.

During the entrance procession, the MCA children carried banners depicting different Christian virtues such as love, sharing, obedience, kindness, and service. These banners were reverently placed on a banana sapling near the altar, symbolizing the call to grow in virtues and bear fruit through a missionary life. The children meaningfully animated the entire liturgy through readings, offertory, choir, and other liturgical services, making the Eucharistic celebration lively and prayerful.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes reflected on the theme of being the “salt of the earth and the light of the world.” He encouraged the children to become service-minded persons, reminding them that small acts of love, kindness, and sharing can make a big difference in their families, schools, and society.

After the Holy Mass, a half-day program was organized for the MCA children. Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes conducted input sessions on how MCA children should live their daily lives as young missionaries—through prayer, good behavior, helping others, sharing what they have, and being witnesses of Jesus in their homes, schools, and parish. This was followed by group activities and fun-filled games organized with the help of the animators, making the learning joyful and practical.

The children actively participated in all the activities and thoroughly enjoyed the day. The celebration helped to instill in them a deeper awareness of their missionary call and strengthened their faith through joyful fellowship and learning.  

Haliyal Deanery marks the Day of Consecrated Life with a Clergy-Religious Gathering.

Haliyal Deanery marks the Day of Consecrated Life with a Clergy-Religious Gathering.

A Clergy–Religious Meeting in connection with the Day of Consecrated Life was held on 1st February 2026, at St. Anthony’s Church, Dandeli, in the Haliyal Deanery of the Diocese of Karwar.

The program was organized by Rev. Fr. Urban Fernandes, Coordinator for Clergy and Religious of the Haliyal Deanery. The gathering brought together 18 priests and 25 religious sisters, reflecting a beautiful spirit of unity, collaboration, and fraternity among the clergy and religious of the deanery.

The evening began with a warm welcome and fellowship arranged by Rev. Fr. Felix Lobo, and Rev. Fr. Raymond Fernandes, Dean of the Haliyal Deanery, extended a cordial welcome to all the participants.

This was followed by a prayerful session of reflection and Eucharistic Adoration animated by Rev. Fr. Urban, which helped the participants renew their commitment to consecrated life and deepen their spiritual communion with the Lord.

After a short break, the gathering continued with joyful games and interactive activities led by Rev. Fr. Simon Fernandes, creating an atmosphere of joy, relaxation, and fraternal bonding. As a gesture of appreciation and affection, the priests presented a token of love to the religious sisters.

Rev. Fr. Nathaniel Cruz and Rev. Sr. Helen Varghese shared their reflections and expressed sincere gratitude to the organizers and participants. Rev. Fr. Felix Lobo, the host for the evening, proposed the vote of thanks and suggested the creation of a WhatsApp group to enhance future communication and coordination.

The program concluded with a fellowship meal, further strengthening the bonds of communion among all present. The meeting ended on a note of gratitude, spiritual renewal, and strengthened fraternity among the clergy and religious of the Haliyal Deanery.  

Karwar Diocese empowers Teachers through Barefoot Counselling Training – Phase 1

Karwar Diocese empowers Teachers through Barefoot Counselling Training – Phase 1

The Diocese of Karwar successfully conducted the Barefoot Counselling Training Programme—Phase 1 (Batch 1) for teachers from 30th January to 1st February 2026. The three-day training aimed to equip teachers with basic counselling skills to support students with empathy, understanding, and emotional maturity.

The program began with prayer led by Fr. Cyprian, followed by a welcome and keynote address by Fr. Gabriel Lopes, who also introduced the resource person. Bishop Duming Dias’ presence and inspiring words gave a strong boost to the program. The central message of the program was to help teachers grow in love for God and deepen their understanding of others, especially young people in their care.

A total of 22 teachers actively participated in the program. The program was facilitated by Fr. Joyson Sujay Vas, SJ, who guided participants through a series of interactive and practical sessions focused on personal growth and effective counselling practices.

Participants were enriched through sessions on self-discovery, group dynamics, team building, the role of teachers as counsellors, basic listening and core counselling skills, counselling processes and practical techniques, REBT therapy, behavioral patterns and common disorders, case studies and role play, mindfulness and relaxation techniques, awareness of the POCSO Act, and the self-care and emotional well-being of teachers. The sessions combined theory with practice, helping teachers develop skills to better understand themselves and respond compassionately to the needs of students.

The training concluded with reflections and opinion sharing by Leelesh Britto, Kusum Gadiga, and Montin D’Souza, who expressed their appreciation for the practical and life-enriching nature of the sessions. The program concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Christina Rozario, acknowledging the efforts of the facilitator and organizers. 

Prathiba Career Guidance Program held for Kone and Kajubag deaneries at KDDC Karwar

Prathiba Career Guidance Program held for Kone and Kajubag deaneries at KDDC Karwar

The Diocese of Karwar Education Commission successfully organized the Prathiba Career Guidance Programme for PU and degree students of the Kone and Kajubag Deaneries on 25 January 2026 at the K.D.D.C. Hall, Karwar. The program aimed at guiding young students to make informed, confident, and value-based career choices rooted in faith and responsibility.

Around 70 youth actively participated in the program and benefited greatly from the expert guidance, practical insights, and motivational inputs. The program proved to be a meaningful initiative in empowering young minds to plan their future responsibly and with clarity.

The program began with a prayer led by Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General, invoking God’s blessings upon the students and the entire initiative. Sr. Sarita warmly welcomed the gathering and introduced the dignitaries, expressing gratitude for their presence and support. Sr. Shanti was also present for the program, encouraging the participants through her presence. Fr. Steven D’Souza was also present, extending his support and encouragement to the students.

The main session was led by Prof. William D’Souza, an international motivational speaker, who delivered an inspiring and interactive talk. He guided the students in understanding the wide range of career opportunities available after PUC and degree studies, helping them identify their talents, interests, and abilities. He also highlighted promising career avenues in fields such as engineering, medical sciences, management, information technology and software, arts, and competitive services, including IAS and KAS.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General, who also delivered the homily, inspiring the students to discern their future with faith, responsibility, and trust in God’s guidance. The vote of thanks was proposed by Pearl, a youth representative, who expressed sincere appreciation to the resource person and the organizers for conducting a highly informative and enriching program.

The Diocese of Karwar Education Commission continues its commitment to the holistic development of students by organizing such timely and relevant educational initiatives that nurture both professional excellence and strong Christian values.