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. 

Pastoral Visit of the Bishop to St. Antony’s Church, Dandeli.

Pastoral Visit of the Bishop to St. Antony’s Church, Dandeli.

St. Antony’s Church, Dandeli, joyfully hosted the Bishop’s Pastoral Visit on 17th and 18th January 2026. The visit commenced at St. Michael’s Convent Primary School, where the Bishop was warmly welcomed by the Parish Priest, management, staff, and students. He addressed the school assembly and met the Reverend Sisters. Interactions were also held with Protestant brethren, Catholic children, Catholic teachers, and non-Christian leaders, reflecting the parish’s commitment to harmony and dialogue.

The bishop visited several sick parishioners and families of seminarians, sisters, and priests, offering prayers and blessings. He met various parish groups, including the EMHCs, Sacristy Servers, BLA members, Parish Choir, Daily Mass participants, CWL, CMA, and the PPC and PFC members. A prayer service in the parish church added spiritual depth to the visit.

On the second day, the bishop met the parish clergy and religious and spent time with the confirmation candidates and parishioners. During the Solemn Confirmation Mass, 47 candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation, strengthening their faith and commitment to Christian life. The celebration was followed by a short felicitation and thanksgiving.

The Bishop also met the MCA, Little Flower children, altar servers, faith formators (catechism teachers and animators), the Catholic Youth Association, Neo-Catechumenate communities, and the Building and Cemetery Committees. He briefly visited parish properties and the Catholic cemetery.

The pastoral visit concluded with a fellowship meal with the clergy, religious, and various communities, leaving behind a message of faith, unity, and encouragement for the parish. 

Prathiba Career Guidance Program held at Honavar

Prathiba Career Guidance Program held at Honavar

The Diocese of Karwar Education Commission successfully organized the Prathiba Career Guidance Programme for PU and degree students of the Honavar Zone, covering the deaneries of Kumta, Honavar, and Bhatkal. The program was held at Prathibhodaya, Honavar, with the objective of guiding young students in making informed, confident, and value-based career choices.

The program began with a prayer led by Fr. Gabriel Lopes, setting a reflective and inspiring tone for the day. Sr. Sarita extended a warm welcome to all the participants, dignitaries, and students, expressing gratitude for their presence and cooperation.

The main session was led by Prof. William D’Souza, an international motivational speaker, who enlightened the students on the various career options available after PUC and degree studies. Through his interactive and inspiring talk, he helped students identify their strengths, interests, and abilities while choosing the right career path. He also highlighted opportunities in fields such as engineering, medical, management, IT & software, arts, and competitive services like IAS and KAS.

Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General, celebrated the Holy Eucharist, invoking God’s blessings upon the students and the entire program. Fr. Benjamin D’Souza, Dean of the Honavar Deanery, motivated and encouraged the students through his supportive presence and also expressed his sincere gratitude to all the parish priests for their support and to the youth for their enthusiastic participation. On behalf of the participants.

The students actively participated in the sessions and benefitted greatly from the expert guidance, practical insights, and motivational inputs. The programme proved to be a meaningful initiative in empowering young minds to plan their future responsibly and with clarity.

Russell Fernandes a youth representative, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to the resource person and the organizers for conducting a highly informative and beneficial program. The Diocese of Karwar Education Commission continues its commitment to the holistic development of students by organizing such timely and relevant educational initiatives.  

 

Prathiba Career Guidance Program held at Yellapur

Prathiba Career Guidance Program held at Yellapur

The Diocese of Karwar Education Commission organized the “Prathiba Career Guidance Program” for PU and degree students of the Yellapur Zone, covering the Haliyal and Sirsi Deaneries, on 11 January 2026 at Mother Teresa School, Yellapur.

The program began with a warm welcome by Fr. Gabriel Lopes, followed by the keynote address by Fr. Raymond Fernandes, who highlighted the importance of proper career discernment and value-based decision-making in today’s competitive world. Fr. Simon formally introduced the resource person of the day.

The session was led by Prof. William D’Souza, an international motivational speaker, who enlightened the students on the various career options available after PUC and degree studies. His interactive and inspiring talk helped students understand how to identify their strengths, interests, and abilities while choosing the right career path.

The program was well organized by Fr. Royston Gonsalves, ensuring smooth coordination and active participation throughout the event. A total of 40 participants attended the program. During the feedback session, one girl and three boys expressed their deep appreciation for the speaker, stating that the session was highly informative and meaningful, and regretted that many of their friends could not attend and missed such a valuable opportunity.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks by Mr. Felix, who gratefully acknowledged the resource person, organizers, and all those who contributed to the success of the program. The Diocese of Karwar Education Commission continues its mission of empowering youth through guidance, education, and holistic formation.

New Year Get-Together of Migrants held at Chendia, Karwar

New Year Get-Together of Migrants held at Chendia, Karwar

The Commission for Migrants of the Catholic Diocese of Karwar joyfully organized the New Year Get-Together of Migrants on 11 January 2026 at Chendia. Migrants from various parts of India participated in the program, reflecting the rich cultural diversity and unity of the migrant community.

The program began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which God’s blessings were invoked upon all migrants and their families as they begin the New Year 2026 with hope and faith.

Following the Eucharist, Sr. Mabel D’Cruz delivered an enlightening and meaningful talk on the Protection of Migrants. She highlighted the rights and challenges faced by migrants and emphasized the Church’s responsibility to stand in solidarity with them, offering care, protection, and support.

The event was graced by the presence of the Migrant Commission Coordinators, Mrs. Catherine Dias and Mr. Franko Fernandes, PPC Secretary, and Fr. Antony Rodrigues, Diocesan Secretary of the Migrant Commission. Their presence and words of encouragement strengthened the spirit of unity and belonging among the migrant community.

The program concluded with a time of fellowship, as participants shared breakfast and tea, fostering bonds of friendship and togetherness. The New Year Get-Together was a meaningful occasion of prayer, awareness, and communion, marking a hopeful and grace-filled beginning to the year 2026 for the migrant community of the Diocese of Karwar.  

Diocese of Karwar Rejoices in the Ordination of Five New Priests

Diocese of Karwar Rejoices in the Ordination of Five New Priests

The Diocese of Karwar joyfully celebrated the ordination of five new priests during a solemn Eucharistic celebration held at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubhag, Karwar. The sacred rite of ordination was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

The newly ordained priests are Fr. Ceephus Rodrigues, Fr. Claudius Raja Doss, Fr. Rohan Fernandes, Fr. Sandeep Gomes, and Fr. Simon Siddi, who were ordained to the holy order of priesthood to serve the Church and the people of God. A large number of priests, religious brothers and sisters, seminarians, and faithful from various parishes of the diocese participated in the joyous celebration.

In his homily, Bishop Duming Dias reflected on Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd, highlighting the essential qualities of a shepherd that every priest must embody—self-giving love, humility, compassion, faithfulness, and a deep sense of responsibility towards God’s people. He exhorted the newly ordained priests to live their priesthood as true shepherds after the heart of Christ. The Bishop also expressed his sincere gratitude to the parents and families of the newly ordained priests for their sacrifices, prayers, and support in nurturing these vocations.

After the Holy Mass, a brief felicitation program was organized to honor the newly ordained priests. On behalf of the Cathedral Parish, Fr. Thomas Fernandes, Rector of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging all those who contributed to the smooth conduct of the celebration. Fr. Gabriel Monis served as the master of ceremony, and candidates were trained and guided for the ordination by Fr. Sachin D’Souza.

The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, which was served to all those present, marking the joyful occasion of thanksgiving and unity.

Diocesan Jubilee Year Solemnly Concluded at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubhag

Diocesan Jubilee Year Solemnly Concluded at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubhag

The Jubilee Year was solemnly concluded at the diocesan level on 28 December 2025 at the Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubhag, Karwar, with a meaningful Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the theme “Hope does not disappoint”, reminding the faithful that Christian hope, rooted in Christ, sustains believers even amid trials and uncertainties. He exhorted the people to remain steadfast in faith and to carry the spirit of the Jubilee Year into their daily lives through prayer, charity, and trust in God.

Highlighting the significance of the Holy Family, the Bishop called upon families to take inspiration from Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, encouraging them to become domestic churches marked by love, unity, forgiveness, and faith. He emphasized that strong and faith-filled families are the foundation of a vibrant Church and society.

As part of the concluding rite, the Bishop venerated the Cross, signifying gratitude for the graces received during the Jubilee Year and a renewed commitment to live as witnesses of hope in the world.

The celebration was attended by priests including Fr. Thomas Fernandes, Fr. Cyprian Silva, and Fr. Wilson D’Souza, along with religious sisters and a large number of lay faithful. The solemn and prayerful atmosphere marked a fitting conclusion to the Jubilee Year at the diocesan level.

The faithful departed with hearts filled with gratitude, renewed hope, and a deeper resolve to live out the Gospel values in their families and communities.  

St. Joseph’s P.U. College Celebrates Annual Day 2025

St. Joseph’s P.U. College Celebrates Annual Day 2025

St. Joseph’s P.U. College Karwar celebrated its Annual Day on Saturday, 20 December 2025, in a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. The program was graced by Mr. Sajid Ahmed Mulla, KAS, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Uttara Kannada District, and Mr. Dolrich Fernandes, entrepreneur and owner of Milan Hospitality, Karwar, as the chief guests. The event was presided over by Rev. Fr. Gabriel Lopes, Secretary, KDES, Karwar.

The program commenced with a graceful prayer dance, setting a spiritual tone for the celebration. Rev. Dr. Stany Pinto, Principal of the college, presented the Annual College Report, highlighting the commendable achievements of the students in academics, cultural activities, and co-curricular pursuits.

The students showcased a variety of entertaining and meaningful cultural programs focusing on themes such as women’s empowerment, child upbringing, and other social concerns, which were well appreciated by the audience. Prizes were distributed to the winners of various sports, cultural, and academic competitions held throughout the academic year.

In his address, the chief guest motivated the students to face life’s challenges with confidence and strive for higher goals. In his presidential address, Rev. Fr. Gabriel Lopes emphasized the importance of values, urging the students to guard their minds against negativity, leave behind kindness that people will never forget, and lead with humility by empowering others to shine.

The program concluded on a joyful and reflective note, bringing back fond memories and inspiring everyone present to uphold the values highlighted during the celebration.