Ecumenical United Christmas Celebration–2025 held at Dandeli

Ecumenical United Christmas Celebration–2025 held at Dandeli

The All-Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights (AKUCFHR), Karwar Zone – Dandeli Wing, joyfully organized the United Christmas Celebration–2025 on 15th December 2025 at Ambedkar Hall Dandeli, bringing together Christians from different denominations to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ in a spirit of unity, peace, and fellowship.

The program began with an opening song and prayer led by Pastor George Talpati, invoking God’s blessings upon the gathering. A warm welcome was extended to the guests and the audience by Pastor Stephen Jha.

A solemn Candle Light Honour and Inauguration Ceremony followed, with all pastors present on the stage. The lighting of candles symbolized Christ as the Light of the World and was accompanied by a Christmas song led by Pastor Vijay and team. The celebration also included a meaningful Christmas cake-cutting ceremony, preceded by a prayer led by Pastor Kishor Babu of the CSI Sargent Church.

The celebration featured a vibrant blend of spiritual and cultural programs, including dance performances by St. Joseph the Worker Church, Ambewadi, and a Christmas dance by the children of St. Antony’s Church, Old Dandeli, along with carol songs, prayer and worship presentations, and a special keytar performance by Bro. Shalom Sanjoy Maben and team.

During the program, Fr. Felix Lobo, Parish Priest of St. Antony’s Church, Old Dandeli, delivered a meaningful Christmas message. In his reflection, he emphasized the true significance of the birth of Jesus Christ and called upon everyone to remain united, reminding the gathering that Christmas is a celebration of love, peace, harmony, and unity among all people.

Prizes were distributed to participants as a gesture of encouragement and appreciation. A melodious group song was presented by the AKUCFHR Organizing Team, Dandeli. The vote of thanks was proposed by Pastor Prabaker Talpati, acknowledging the cooperation and support of all churches, participants, and organizers.

The celebration concluded with an ending song and prayer led by Pastor Sanjoy Maben, followed by the final benediction by Pastor Christopher Ambikanagar. The program ended with fellowship over snacks and refreshments.

Ecumenical Gathering – Sauhardh Christmas Celebration at Ankola

Ecumenical Gathering – Sauhardh Christmas Celebration at Ankola

The Commission for Ecumenism, under the leadership of its Secretary Rev. Fr. Edwin Paul D’Souza, organized the Sauhardh Christmas Celebration on 15th December 2025 at Holy Rosary Hall, Ankola. The program was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. The Guests of Honor included Pastor A. C. Kurian (Ankola), Rev. Fr. Lancy Rodrigues, Rev. Prince James, and Rev. Ravi Besta, along with the People of God, reflecting the spirit of unity and harmony.

As part of the prayer service, Pastor A. C. Kurian proclaimed the Gospel reading, highlighting the ecumenical spirit of the celebration. The celebration was coordinated by Rev. Fr. Edwin Paul, Secretary of Ecumenism, with the support of Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes and the ecumenical team members. The program was enriched by melodious Christmas carols rendered by the youth of Our Lady of Piety Church, the Mar Thoma Church, and the Holy Rosary Church choir, which added joy and devotion to the gathering.

 In his address, Rev. Ravi Besta highlighted the true importance of Christmas, drawing attention to its biblical foundation. Referring to the birth of Jesus Christ as narrated in the Gospels, he reminded the faithful that Christmas celebrates the fulfillment of God’s promise of salvation. He encouraged everyone to become a light in the lives of others, reflecting Christ, who is the Light of the world, and emphasized that Christmas brings lasting joy, hope, and peace into human life.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Duming Dias emphasized the call to be a peaceful people, even amid challenges and opposition. He urged the faithful to courageously bear witness to Christ. Reflecting on the meaning of Christmas, he reminded us that Christmas signifies God coming to meet humanity—leaving heaven and entering the world for our sake. While acknowledging the role of decorations and celebrations, he stressed that without Christ, Christmas loses its true meaning.

The program concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Sr. Jasilda Dsouza, Superior of Nirmala Hrudaya Convent, and the event was gracefully compered by Ms. Sony Fernandes.

 

Bishop Duming Dias Strengthens Faith through Pastoral Visit and Confirmation at Gundolli

Bishop Duming Dias Strengthens Faith through Pastoral Visit and Confirmation at Gundolli

Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, arrived at Gundolli for his pastoral visit on 13th and 14th December 2025 and was accorded a dignified, respectful, and prayerful welcome by the parish community. He was formally received at the Shanti Dhama Convent Gate, from where a solemn procession accompanied him to the church. A prayer service was conducted in the church, followed by prayers and the blessing of the parish cemetery. The Bishop also visited the sick of Gundolli, offering them pastoral care, comfort, and prayers. As part of his pastoral ministry.

The bishop visited all five substations of the parish, meeting the faithful and encouraging them to remain steadfast in their Christian vocation. In the evening the bishop interacted with the members of the Catholic Women’s League, appreciating their dedication to the Church and their important role in family and parish life. He also met the members of the Missionary Children Association, motivating the children to grow in faith, discipline, and missionary spirit. Later, the Bishop met the Sisters in the convent, shared dinner with them, and held meetings with the catechists, the Assistant Parish Priest, and the Parish Priest.

The following day, 14th December, began with morning prayers and meditation. The Bishop then presided over the Holy Eucharist, during which he administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 65 candidates from the parish and its substations. In his homily and address, he urged the faithful to live as committed witnesses of Christ in their daily lives.

After the Mass, the Bishop met with the parishioners of Gundolli along with the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and Parish Finance Council (PFC), discussing the pastoral, spiritual, and administrative life of the parish. The pastoral visit concluded on a note of spiritual renewal, unity, and encouragement for the entire parish community.

Late Bishop William D’Mello Memorial Cricket Tournament held at Shirwad, Karwar

Late Bishop William D’Mello Memorial Cricket Tournament held at Shirwad, Karwar

The Late Bishop William D’Mello Memorial Cricket Tournament was held on 10 December 2025 at the Railway Ground, Shirwad–Karwar, in loving memory of the late Bishop William D’Mello, whose dedicated service continues to inspire the Diocese of Karwar.

The tournament was inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, in the presence of Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General, and Msgr. Simon Tellis, who formally declared the event open. In his inaugural address, Bishop Duming Dias recalled the remarkable contributions of the late Bishop William D’Mello to the Diocese and highlighted his passion for fostering unity and fraternity among priests and faithful. He encouraged all teams to play with enthusiasm, discipline, and true sportsmanship.

Following the address, the dignitaries honored the memory of Bishop D’Mello by offering flower petals before his portrait. They then proceeded to the ground, where Bishop Duming Dias officially inaugurated the tournament by cutting the ribbon, marking the beginning of a day filled with energetic and friendly competition.

Four priest teams participated in the league-format tournament: Anointed Strikers, St. Carlos Acutis, St. Joseph’s Warriors, and Vianney Blasters. All teams displayed commendable skill, teamwork, and spirit throughout the matches. After an exciting series of games, St. Carlos Acutis emerged as the runners-up, and the Anointed Strikers were crowned the champions of the 2025 tournament.

The trophy and prizes were presented to the winning and runner-up teams by Bishop Duming Dias during the Christmas celebration program, making the moment even more memorable and joyful. The tournament not only honored a visionary shepherd of the Diocese but also strengthened the bond of unity and fraternity among the priests through sports and healthy competition.  

Golden Jubilee Celebration of Sr. Maria Goretti’s Religious Life

Golden Jubilee Celebration of Sr. Maria Goretti’s Religious Life

The Golden Jubilee of Sr. Maria Goretti was celebrated, marking fifty years of her dedicated and grace-filled religious life. The day began with the Thanksgiving Holy Eucharist presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, as the main celebrant. Many diocesan priests, religious brothers and sisters of the Honavar Deanery, along with staff, students, children, and parishioners, came together to thank God for Sr. Maria Goretti’s golden milestone.

During the homily, Bishop Duming Dias expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Maria Goretti, acknowledging her years of selfless service to the Diocese. He beautifully highlighted her dedicated life, unwavering commitment, and compassionate ministry, which have greatly enriched the pastoral and social mission of the Church in Karwar. The Bishop emphasized that her example continues to inspire many, especially the young.

After the Eucharistic celebration, a meaningful felicitation programme was held at the Nursing College premises, thoughtfully and efficiently organized by the SRA Sisters of St. Ignatius Convent, Honavar. The atmosphere was filled with joy and admiration as the community honored Sr. Maria for her fruitful journey.

During the programme, the bishop noted that Sr. Maria has made a remarkable difference in the lives of children, youth, and families, offering care, guidance, and shelter to many in need. On behalf of the entire Diocese, he thanked her for her profound dedication and loving service. Very Rev. Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Vicar General, Rev. Fr. Benjamin D’Souza, Dean of Honavar Deanery. Fr. Anthony Lopes, Parish Priest and A large gathering of religious, benefactors, well-wishers, and parishioners participated, making the occasion a memorable moment of gratitude and celebration.

The event concluded with a delicious meal served to all, strengthening the spirit of fellowship and thanksgiving. As the Diocese honors this golden milestone, we pray that God may continue to bless Sr. Maria Goretti with good health, peace, and renewed strength to continue her mission of love, compassion, and faithful service.

 

Seminar on Media Awareness, Cyber Safety, and AI Tools held at St. Anthony Church, Ternamakki.

Seminar on Media Awareness, Cyber Safety, and AI Tools held at St. Anthony Church, Ternamakki.

The Commission for Communication of the Diocese of Karwar organized a one-day seminar on Media Understanding, Cyber Crime, Cyber Security, and Emerging AI Tools on 7 December 2025 at St. Anthony Church, Ternamakki. The program was meticulously coordinated by Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes, Secretary of the Communication Commission.

The day began with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, during which Fr. Stewart Fernandes preached an inspiring homily for the Second Sunday of Advent, reminding the faithful to prepare their hearts for the coming of the Lord. Rev. Fr. Joachim Monteiro concelebrated the Mass.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the seminar commenced for the youth of the parish, with 30 participants eagerly taking part. Fr. Stewart offered deep and practical insights into the modern media landscape, highlighting the responsible and discerning use of media, dangers and patterns of cybercrime, essential practices for cybersecurity, video editing and the opportunities and challenges posed by new artificial intelligence tools.

The sessions included hands-on practical demonstrations, enabling the youth to understand the topics in a clear and interactive manner. Participants were also given time to clarify doubts and engage in discussions.

At the end of the program, feedback was collected, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. The youth expressed great satisfaction and remarked that such sessions are highly relevant in today’s digital age. Many suggested organizing a similar program for children, considering its usefulness for younger students as well.

Alister, the youth president, proposed the vote of thanks, and Rev. Fr. Joachim Monteiro expressed gratitude to Fr. Stewart Fernandes for his dedicated efforts and to all the youth who actively participated in the seminar. The Commission for Communication continues its mission to empower the faithful of the diocese with knowledge and skills to navigate the digital world safely, responsibly, and creatively. 

Pastoral Visit of Bishop Duming Dias to St. Francis Xavier Church, Hunshettikoppa, Yellapur

Pastoral Visit of Bishop Duming Dias to St. Francis Xavier Church, Hunshettikoppa, Yellapur

The parish community of St. Francis Xavier Church, Hunshettikoppa, Yellapur, joyfully welcomed Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his two-day pastoral visit on the 6th and 7th of December 2025. He was warmly received by Rev. Fr. Philip Roque, the parish priest. Representatives from the Hindu and Muslim communities honored the bishop with garlands and flowers, beautifully reflecting the spirit of interreligious harmony that characterizes the region. A colorful procession to the church followed, led by the lively beats of the dhamam performed by the Siddi community, adding a rich cultural flavor to the celebration.

A solemn prayer service was held in the church, after which the bishop met various parish groups. He spent time interacting with members of the Catholic Women’s League (CWL), the Intercessory Group, the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), and the Parish Finance Committee (PFC). These meetings offered an opportunity to listen, guide, and encourage the ongoing pastoral and spiritual initiatives of the parish.

On the second day, Bishop Dias visited the home of Catechist Pascal to administer Holy Communion and pray over him, offering spiritual strength and comfort. He also visited two families of the parish from where vocations to religious life have arisen, acknowledging their contribution to the Church and encouraging them in their faith journey.

The Bishop then visited Tavarakatta village, meeting the faithful and understanding their spiritual and pastoral needs. Later, he returned to the parish to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, during which he preached, interacted with parishioners, and addressed their concerns. Following Mass, he blessed the parish cemetery, invoking prayers for the faithful departed.

A fellowship lunch for all parishioners marked the conclusion of the pastoral visit, fostering unity and strengthening the bond between the bishop and the parish community. The faithful expressed their gratitude for the bishop’s presence, guidance, and blessings during these meaningful two days. 

Renewing Reverence: Liturgical Seminar for Religious Sisters of Diocese of Karwar

Renewing Reverence: Liturgical Seminar for Religious Sisters of Diocese of Karwar

The Diocesan Liturgy Commission organized a two-day liturgical seminar for the religious sisters of the diocese on 4–5 December 2025 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Shirwad–Karwar. The program, coordinated by the Diocesan Liturgy Commission, aimed at deepening understanding, enhancing reverence, and strengthening the faithful practice of the Church’s liturgy among religious communities.

The seminar was meticulously prepared by Fr. Cyprian Silva, Secretary of the Liturgy Commission, and brought together 47 superiors and community collaborators from various religious congregations. The sessions were led by Rev. Dr. Rudolph Pinto, Executive Secretary of the Commission for Liturgy, who served as the resource person for both days.

Throughout the seminar, participants were guided through the foundational principles of the Church’s liturgy and their practical implications in community prayer and parish involvement. Since many religious sisters play an active role in liturgical ministries across the diocese, the program focused on essential themes such as the sanctity of sacred spaces, liturgical decorum, appropriate music, and the meaningful preparation of community celebrations. Special attention was given to recognizing and correcting common liturgical errors and practices that unintentionally weaken the beauty and authenticity of worship.

The sisters expressed sincere gratitude for the clarity, depth, and timeliness of the sessions. One participant shared, “We are often looked to as role models for authentic liturgical practice, but opportunities for reliable formation are rare. This seminar was truly needed.” Another added, “The explanations opened our eyes to many overlooked practices that we now understand more deeply.”

The seminar concluded with a renewed collective commitment to uphold and enrich the dignity of liturgical celebrations across the diocese. Participants returned to their communities with a refreshed spirit, ready to inspire reverence and harmony in every act of worship.  

MCA Units established in Kodani and Bellimakki

MCA Units established in Kodani and Bellimakki

The Diocesan Proclamation and Evangelization Commission of the Diocese of Karwar joyfully witnessed the establishment of new Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) units at Mary Mother of God Church, Kodani, and Holy Cross Chapel, Bellimakki, on 29th and 30th November 2025. The inauguration was led by the Diocesan Proclamation Secretary, Rev. Fr. Stewart Fernandes.

On 29th November, Fr. Stewart conducted an MCA training session for the children of both Kodani and Bellimakki at SFS School, Kodani. A total of 36 children participated in the session, receiving guidance on the mission, values, and responsibilities of MCA members.

On the following day, the Eucharistic Celebration was held in Kodani Church and later in Bellimakki Chapel, with Fr. Stewart presiding over the Mass and preaching the homily. Both MCA units were then formally inaugurated with the lighting of candles, symbolizing the missionary zeal of the children. The official installation of MCA members took place with 25 children in Kodani and 12 children in Bellimakki

Parish Priest Fr. John Abel D’Souza expressed heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Stewart for his commitment and service. Dn. Rohan Fernandes and a large gathering of lay faithful were present to witness this joyful event. The Diocesan Proclamation and Evangelization Commission celebrates this milestone and prays that these young members grow to be vibrant missionaries, spreading the light of Christ wherever they go.