The Marriage Preparation Course for the month of December 2025 was successfully conducted from 12th to 14th December 2025 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Shirwad, Karwar. A total of 32 participants took part in the three-day program, which aimed at preparing couples for a responsible, committed, and faith-filled married life.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, made his pastoral visit to St. Joseph’s Church, Ambewadi, Dandeli, on 29th and 30th November 2025. Bishop Duming Dias was warmly received by the St. Michael School community and Fr. Santhosh Noronha. The day began with a visit to St. Michael’s High School, where he interacted with the staff and students, encouraging them to grow in faith and excellence.
He then visited the ASU and Ganesh Gudi substations, meeting the faithful and offering words of blessing and support. A fraternal lunch was hosted at St. Michael’s Convent, followed by a meeting with the Sisters, during which we appreciated their dedicated service to the parish and neighborhood. The bishop also visited the Asha Kiran ITI College at Dandeli.
In the afternoon, the Bishop joined the parish Women’s League for the Divine Mercy Prayer. Later, he was formally welcomed at the parish church, where he spent time in prayer with the community.
The bishop also visited the parish cemetery, offering prayers for the departed. This was followed by a series of meetings with various parish associations, including the Women’s League, MCA Members, ICYM Members, Parish Pastoral Council, and Parish Finance Committee.
The first day concluded with visits to the sick, where the bishop imparted blessings and words of comfort to the elderly and the infirm.
The second day began with Morning Prayer and the inauguration of the newly built Grotto of Sleeping St. Joseph, a moment of joy and spiritual significance for the parish. Bishop Duming then offered Mass instruction for the Confirmation candidates, after which 39 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation, sealing their commitment to the Catholic faith. Fr. Santhosh Noronha, Parish Priest, thanked Bishop and Fr. Intru Pinto and all those who made this day a memorable one.
A General Assembly Meeting was held after Mass, providing all parishioners with an opportunity to meet the Bishop, share their concerns, and receive his pastoral guidance. He also had dedicated meetings with choir members, EMHC members, and catechism teachers.
The pastoral visit continued with visits to the homes of priests, seminarians, or sisters, appreciating their contribution to the mission of the Church. The visit concluded with a fellowship lunch, after which Bishop Duming Dias departed, leaving the parish strengthened, inspired, and renewed in faith.
On November 21, 2025, the Karnataka Christian Development Corporation Limited organized a comprehensive information workshop at Puneeth Sadan, Karwar, to educate the Christian community about various government schemes available for their welfare.
Shri Prakash Jattan, State-level Member of the Corporation, led the workshop and elaborated on the benefits and utilization of these schemes. He was accompanied by Mr. Suhas, Karwar District In-charge. The event saw the active participation of several pastors, priests, religious, and lay faithful from across the diocese.
During the session, detailed explanations were provided regarding the different schemes implemented by the corporation for the benefit of the Christian minority community. The resource persons explained who is eligible to apply, the procedure for submitting applications, where to submit them, and the required documents and criteria. After the presentations, participants raised questions regarding the schemes, and the officials provided clear and helpful answers to their queries.
Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, bishop of Karwar expressed his gratitude to Shri Prakash Jattan for his valuable guidance and to Mr. Suhas and the organising team for arranging the workshop. The Bishop urged priests and pastors to identify people in genuine need and help them access these schemes. “We have received the information; now it is our responsibility to share it with others,” he said. He also thanked the government for extending welfare schemes to the Christian community.
The meeting concluded with the formation of a committee dedicated to spreading awareness about the various schemes and ensuring maximum benefit reaches the deserving.
The newly formed Karwar Diocesan Service Communion (KDSC) held a fruitful meeting with Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar, on November 17, 2025.
The meeting began with a prayer led by Fr. Joachim Monteiro, who also extended a warm welcome to all the members present. This inaugural gathering served as an important moment for the committee to share their plans and seek guidance from the Bishop.
During the discussion, Bishop Duming Dias interacted with the committee on several key pastoral and spiritual initiatives, including – strengthening intercessory prayer groups, Organizing visits to the sick and homebound, Promoting charitable activities, Conducting retreats across various zones, encouraging deeper involvement in parish-level spiritual growth, and other matters related to the mission and service of KDSC.
The bishop shared his valuable insights and suggestions, motivating the members to work with dedication and unity for the spiritual renewal of the diocese. The meeting concluded with the blessing of the Bishop, invoking God’s guidance on the mission of the KDSC.
