Bishop’s Pastoral visit to St. Anthony’s Church, Gund

Bishop’s Pastoral visit to St. Anthony’s Church, Gund

The faithful of St. Anthony’s Church, Gund, were blessed with the pastoral visit of Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias on 21st and 22nd February 2026. At his arrival, the bishop was warmly welcomed by the parish priest, Fr. Remend Fernandes, along with the parishioners. The visit then commenced with a meaningful prayer service. Preparations for the Sunday Liturgy were conducted in the wado, with active and enthusiastic participation from the parishioners, reflecting their unity and generous spirit of service.

On the following day, the bishop began the morning with a prayer service at the cemetery, lovingly remembering the departed souls of the parish. This was followed by Adoration and Morning Prayer, which created a serene and reflective atmosphere. The solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Duming Dias, became the spiritual highlight of the visit. The faithful participated devoutly, making the Eucharistic celebration deeply prayerful and enriching.

In his pastoral address, Bishop Duming Dias encouraged the parish community to deepen their faith, strengthen family bonds, and remain united in love and service. He expressed appreciation for the dedicated efforts of the various parish groups and urged them to continue their active involvement in the mission of the Church.

During the visit, special meetings were held with the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and the Parish Finance Council (PFC) to review pastoral activities and developmental initiatives. The Bishop also met with the Women’s League, ICYM members, Children’s Club, and Altar Servers, attentively listening to their activities, challenges, and future plans, and offering guidance and encouragement.

A significant and touching aspect of the visit was the Bishop’s outreach to the sick and elderly, where he offered prayers, blessings, and pastoral care. The visit concluded with a meeting with the parish priest to reflect on pastoral planning and to further strengthen the spiritual growth and mission of the parish community. The Pastoral Visit was truly a blessed moment of grace and renewal for St. Anthony’s Church, Gund, fostering unity, collaboration, and a deeper commitment to faith and service.

 

Inauguration of the Year of the Poor and Housing Project at Cathedral, Karwar

Inauguration of the Year of the Poor and Housing Project at Cathedral, Karwar

On 18th February 2026, Ash Wednesday, the Holy Eucharist was solemnly celebrated at the Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubag, Karwar. The Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, was the main celebrant, joined by several concelebrating priests and a large gathering of the faithful.

In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the true spirit of Lent, highlighting the three pillars — prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. He reminded the faithful that these acts should not be performed as a show before others, but with sincerity and humility of heart. Genuine repentance, he emphasized, leads to inner renewal and deeper communion with God.

After the final blessing, the Bishop formally inaugurated the Year of the Poor at the diocesan level. He unveiled the logo of the Year of the Poor and also inaugurated the housing project by unveiling the symbolic structure of a house, representing the diocesan commitment to build houses for the poor in every parish.

Addressing the gathering, the Bishop explained that this initiative is undertaken in preparation for the forthcoming Diocesan Golden Jubilee Year. He urged all the faithful to pray sincerely for the success of this project and to actively participate through generosity and involvement.

Declaring this as the Year of the Poor, he called upon everyone to show mercy and compassion towards the poor and marginalized, making concrete efforts to uplift and support them.The celebration marked a meaningful and mission-oriented beginning to the Lenten season for the entire diocese.

  

Renovated workshop blocks Inaugurated at Asha Kiran ITI, Dandeli

Renovated workshop blocks Inaugurated at Asha Kiran ITI, Dandeli

On 18th February 2026, the renovated Fitter Workshop, Electrical Lab, and Welding Workshop at Asha Kiran ITI Training Centre, Dandeli, were solemnly inaugurated with the support of the CSR fund of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank. The blocks were inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar; Mr. Sridaran, Regional Manager; Fr. Santhosh Noronha; and Fr. Steven D’Souza in the presence of staff and students.

A short program followed, compered by Mr. Francis Pinto. The principal, Mr. N. R. Naik, welcomed the gathering. Mr. Sridaran, Regional Manager of Ujjivan Small Finance Bank, addressed the gathering and highlighted that the bank operates in 26 states with around 750 branches across India. Through its CSR initiatives, the bank continues to support educational and social development programs. He encouraged the students to make proper and responsible use of the materials provided and to utilize them wisely for their studies and overall growth.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Ujjivan Small Finance Bank and Mr. Sridaran for supporting this noble project. He stated that the Diocese is truly indebted to them for their generosity and also thanked all those from the bank who contributed to making it possible. He appreciated the efforts of Fr. Steven D’Souza, Director of KDDC, and Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Assistant Director, for coordinating the project. The bishop urged students to use the facilities wisely and teachers to maintain them carefully.

The dignitaries were honored on the occasion, and tokens of appreciation were presented to all who contributed to the renovation works. The program concluded with a vote of thanks, bringing the event to a meaningful close.

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.