Diocesan-Level Business Meet 2025 held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

Diocesan-Level Business Meet 2025 held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

The Diocesan Laity Commission, in collaboration with the Catholic Association of the Diocese of Karwar (CADK), organized the Diocesan-Level Business Meet 2025 on 23rd October 2025 at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar.

The program commenced with a prayer led by Fr. Lancy Rodrigues, invoking God’s blessings upon the gathering. Mr. Stephen Rodrigues extended a warm welcome to all the dignitaries and participants. The inaugural lamp was lit by the dignitaries on the dais, marking the beginning of the event.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, in his address, emphasized the importance of growth in business through proper planning, dedication, and unity. He also encouraged all diocesan commissions to be active and collaborative in their mission for the development of the community.

Shri J. R. Lobo, former Member of the Legislative Assembly, Mangalore, was the chief guest for the occasion. He was felicitated for his dedicated service to society. In his inspiring speech, Shri Lobo shared that although he had opportunities to work abroad, he chose to serve as a government employee and later as an MLA, driven by his desire to serve the people.

Fr. Richard Rodrigues, Mr. Denis D’Silva, Mr. Louis Lobo, Mr. Alwyn Cartoz, Mr. Roshan Castelino, and Mr. George Fernandes and many others were present. The speakers highlighted the need for unity among entrepreneurs and discussed ways to grow and strengthen business ventures within the community.

During the event, many entrepreneurs and professionals were honored for their outstanding contributions in the field of business and for their service to the community.

The meet provided a meaningful platform for Catholic entrepreneurs and professionals to share experiences, build networks, and explore ways to promote ethical business practices inspired by Christian values.

 

Renovated Fr. Agnelo Memorial Well and Park Inaugurated at St. John the Baptist Church, Honmav, Kumta

Renovated Fr. Agnelo Memorial Well and Park Inaugurated at St. John the Baptist Church, Honmav, Kumta

On October 22, 2025, St. John the Baptist Church, Honmav, Kumta, witnessed a memorable day dedicated to the cherished legacy of Venerable Fr. Agnelo D’Souza, who faithfully served the parish from 1910 to 1918. To honor his memory and enduring spiritual presence, the newly renovated Fr. Agnelo Memorial Well and Park were inaugurated in a solemn and joy-filled ceremony.

The inauguration was conducted by Fr. A. Joseph Fernandes, Central Delegate Superior of the Society of Pilar, Goa, while the blessing was imparted by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar and Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Shimoga.

On the same occasion, the Road Widening Project was also inaugurated. Both projects were successfully completed under the dynamic leadership and vision of Fr. Chrysostom Rodrigues, the Parish Priest of Honmav, whose dedication ensured the realization of these initiatives for the benefit of the parish community.

The day’s program commenced with a Solemn Holy Mass, followed by a felicitation ceremony to honor the donors and benefactors whose generosity made the projects possible.

The event drew together parishioners, benefactors, and well-wishers in a beautiful spirit of faith, gratitude, and unity—a living testament to the same devotion and humility that marked the life of Venerable Fr Agnelo D’Souza. 

Young Clergy Meeting held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

Young Clergy Meeting held at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar

The Young Clergy of the Diocese of Karwar gathered for their meeting at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, on the 20th and 21st of October 2025. The day began with a spirit of prayer and fraternity. The morning prayer was led by Rev. Fr. Ceynon Gonsalves, setting a reflective tone for the day.

The highlight of the gathering was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. In his inspiring homily, the bishop emphasized the importance of keeping the lamps of faith and service burning brightly at all times. He illustrated this through biblical examples, inviting the priests to remain spiritually alert and pastorally active in their mission.

After breakfast, the young priests visited Sandhya Vandan and spent quality time with the retired priests, engaging in a meaningful conversation filled with gratitude and mutual encouragement.

Later, Bishop Duming Dias gave a talk on the Parish Action Plan, highlighting the need for priests to be multitasking ministers—not limiting themselves to one aspect of pastoral work but giving due importance to all dimensions of parish life.

A sharing session followed, during which all participants contributed their reflections and insights. The meeting then proceeded to the election of new office bearers of the Young Clergy group. Fr. Wilson Pinto was elected as the new president, and Fr. Francis Fernandes as the new secretary.

The formal handover of responsibilities took place with Fr. Bastanv Nazareth handing over the file to the new president and Fr. Rohan Gonsalves handing over to the new secretary.

The meeting concluded with the vote of thanks by Fr. Rohan Gonsalves and the bishop’s final blessing, sending the young clergy forth with renewed zeal and pastoral enthusiasm.

Diocesan Wedding Jubilee Celebration at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Shirwad, Karwar

Diocesan Wedding Jubilee Celebration at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Shirwad, Karwar

The Diocesan Family Commission of Karwar joyfully organized the Diocesan Wedding Jubilee Celebration on 20th October 2025 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, Shirwad, Karwar. The event was a heartfelt tribute to the Silver and Golden Jubilarians who completed 25 and 50 years of married life in the Jubilee Year.

The celebration began with a joyful gathering of couples who came to thank God for the grace-filled years of their marital journey. In total, 7 Golden Jubilarians and 18 Silver Jubilarians participated in the event. The program sought to honor their steadfast love and lifelong commitment, presenting them as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the younger generation—a true testimony to God’s beautiful plan for Christian marriage.

The program was gracefully compered by Mr. Nelson Gonsalves from Siddapur, who led the proceedings with enthusiasm and warmth. Mr. Franky Fernandes from Manaki, Kumta, served as the resource person, sharing his personal reflections and practical insights on living the vocation of marriage joyfully and faithfully in today’s world.

Inspiring testimonies followed, presented by Mr. Deepak and Mrs. Perpeth Lopes, representing the Silver Jubilarians, and Mr. Severin and Mrs. Margaret Fernandes, representing the Golden Jubilarians. Their stories of love, faith, and perseverance deeply moved everyone present.

The highlight of the day was the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Fr. Richard Rodrigues, who in his homily encouraged the couples to remain firm in their love, rooted in faith, and to continue bearing witness to Christian family values in society.

After the Eucharistic celebration, couples participated in games and fellowship activities, filling the atmosphere with joy and togetherness.

In his concluding address, Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, congratulated all the jubilarians for their enduring faith and fidelity, urging them to live the years ahead with the same grace and commitment. The celebration culminated in a cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing gratitude and joy for God’s blessings through the years.

Ms. Rina Almeida proposed the vote of thanks, expressing heartfelt appreciation to all those who contributed to the success of this memorable celebration. The day was indeed a beautiful tribute to the sacred bond of marriage—a reminder that true love, rooted in faith and nurtured through life’s ups and downs, only grows deeper with time.

Sacrament of Confirmation Administered by Bishop Duming Dias at St. Joseph’s Church, Lower Kasarkod

Sacrament of Confirmation Administered by Bishop Duming Dias at St. Joseph’s Church, Lower Kasarkod

On 20th October 2025, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 67 candidates at St. Joseph’s Church, Lower Kasarkod. The parish community joyfully welcomed the bishop at the church entrance. Holy Eucharist was concelebrated by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Albert D’Silva, together with Frs. Cyril Roshan Menezes, Maxim D’Souza, Ashwith D’Souza, Mathias Dais, Maxim Nazareth, Patrick Dais, and Stenis Lopes.

During the solemn Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Duming Dias, in his inspiring homily, highlighted the importance of the Holy Spirit in the life of every Christian and encouraged the newly confirmed to be courageous witnesses of faith in today’s world.

After the Mass, the Bishop presented Confirmation certificates to all the candidates. Rev. Fr. Albert D’Silva expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Bishop, concelebrating priests, parish leaders, and all those who contributed to the success of this joyful celebration. The entire event was marked by faith, fellowship, and renewed commitment to living out the gifts of the Holy Spirit. 

Pastoral Visit of Bishop Duming Dias to Mary Queen of Heaven and Earth Church, Gardolli.

Pastoral Visit of Bishop Duming Dias to Mary Queen of Heaven and Earth Church, Gardolli.

On October 18 and 19, 2025, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, made his pastoral visit to Mary Queen of Heaven and Earth Church, Gardolli. Bishop Duming Dias was warmly welcomed by the Parish Priest, Fr. Ronald D’Souza, Assistant Priest, Fr. Francis D’Souza, and the faithful of the parish. The visit began with a prayer service in the church, invoking God’s blessings upon the bishop and the parish community, followed by a visit to the cemetery, where the bishop offered prayers for the departed souls.

Later, Bishop Duming visited the Gadgera Substation, where he administered Holy Communion to the sick and offered them words of comfort and encouragement. He also visited the Wada and Aksalkatta communities, interacting with parishioners and listening to their faith experiences. The day concluded with a fruitful meeting with the Parish Associations.

The second day began with morning prayer and meditation. The highlight of the pastoral visit was the Solemn Confirmation Mass, concelebrated by Fr. Ronald D’Souza, the parish priest; Fr. Francis D’Souza, assistant parish priest; Fr. Intru Pinto, the diocesan procurator; and Fr. Valenth Fernandes, local priest of Wada. During the Eucharistic celebration, Bishop Duming administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to 77 candidates in a joyful and grace-filled ceremony.

In his homily, Bishop Duming encouraged the newly confirmed to be courageous witnesses of Christ and active participants in the life of the Church. He reminded them that the Holy Spirit empowers every Christian to live out the Gospel with joy, courage, and commitment.

After the Mass, the Bishop met with parishioners and Parish Associations, expressing his appreciation and encouragement. This was followed by group photographs and a fraternal lunch at the presbytery. The pastoral visit concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr. Ronald D’Souza, who expressed gratitude to the Bishop and to all who contributed to the success of the event.

The pastoral visit of Bishop Duming Dias brought immense joy and inspiration to the faithful of Gardolli. His presence strengthened the faith of the people, renewed their missionary zeal, and deepened their love for the Church. The parish community expressed sincere thanks to the bishop for his paternal care, inspiring message, and spiritual encouragement.

Diocesan Renewal Program for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion held at Honnavar

Diocesan Renewal Program for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion held at Honnavar

The Diocesan Renewal Program for the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) was held on October 12, 2025, at Pratibhodaya Hall, Honnavar. A total of 132 participants from the Kumta, Honnavar, and Bhatkal Deaneries took part in the renewal program. The event was organized under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Diocesan Pastoral Center and Secretary of the Commission for Liturgy, Diocese of Karwar.

Fr. Cyprian guided the participants through a deep and inspiring reflection based on the Apostolic Letter Mane Nobiscum Domine, meaning “Stay with us, Lord.” He beautifully connected the teaching of the Church to the life and mission of the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Emphasizing the Church’s expectations, he reminded them that each EMHC is called to live a life rooted in the Eucharist—a life of service, holiness, and gratitude. Their special vocation, he said, should lead them to a deeper spiritual life and a stronger commitment to the mission of Christ.

Deacon Simon Siddi of San Salvador Church animated a touching session of Eucharistic Adoration and shared a reflection on the Gospel passage about the healing of the ten lepers, encouraging all EMHCs to cultivate a constant attitude of gratitude for their sacred ministry in the Church.

The day’s program concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Cyprian. In his homily, he exhorted the participants to remain faithful to their call, to serve the Lord with humility, and to allow their lives to be continually transformed by the Eucharist they so reverently distribute.

In his concluding message, Fr. Cyprian expressed sincere thanks to Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his constant encouragement and pastoral support. He also thanked Fr. Sebastian Fernandes, Director of Pratibhodaya, and the staff for their warm hospitality and excellent arrangements, as well as all parish priests who encouraged their EMHCs to take part in this renewal encounter.

The program was truly a moment of grace and renewal, helping the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to rediscover the joy and depth of their Eucharistic vocation and to continue serving the Lord and His people with renewed devotion.   

Marriage Preparation Course Concludes at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad

Marriage Preparation Course Concludes at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad

The Marriage Preparation Course organized by the Family Commission of the Diocese of Karwar was held from October 10 to October 12, 2025, at Puneeth Sadan, Shirwad, Karwar. A total of 33 participants took part in this three-day program designed to help participants reflect deeply on the sacred vocation of marriage and family life.

Experienced resource persons spoke on a variety of topics such as the Sacrament of Matrimony, communication in marriage, responsible parenthood, family spirituality, family finance, and the role of faith in married life. Each session was marked by active participation and honest sharing from the participants, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity to grow together in understanding and love.

The program also included Eucharistic celebrations, confessions, adorations, and the prayer of the Church, which helped the participants to prepare themselves spiritually for the Sacrament of Marriage. At the end of the course, certificates were distributed to all participants who had completed the course.

The Marriage Preparation Course was indeed a time of grace-filled learning, inspiring all the participants to build their future families on the foundation of love, understanding, and faith in God.  

Bishop Duming Dias’ Pastoral Visit to Sacred Heart Church, Ambikanagar

Bishop Duming Dias’ Pastoral Visit to Sacred Heart Church, Ambikanagar

On 12 October 2025, Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, made his pastoral visit to Sacred Heart Church, Ambikanagar. The Bishop was warmly welcomed by Rev. Fr. Dominic Quadras, the priest in charge, along with the faithful of the parish.

During the visit, the Bishop shared valuable insights on the purpose and spiritual significance of a pastoral visit, describing it as a moment of grace, communion, and renewal for the parish community.

The Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Bishop Duming Dias. In his inspiring homily, he emphasized the role of the Holy Spirit in the life of every Christian and reflected on the Sacrament of Confirmation as a strengthening of faith and mission. On this special occasion, six candidates received the Sacrament of Confirmation.

After the Eucharistic celebration, the Bishop visited and blessed the parish cemetery, offering prayers for the departed souls.

At the conclusion, Rev. Fr. Dominic Quadras expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias for his pastoral guidance and presence, to Rev. Fr. Intru Pinto, and to all the faithful who participated and contributed to the success of the pastoral visit.  

Seminar for Heads of Institutions held at BPKS Extension Centre, Shirwad.

Seminar for Heads of Institutions held at BPKS Extension Centre, Shirwad.

A seminar for the heads of institutions was held on 10 October 2025 at the BPKS Extension Centre, Shirwad, Karwar. The program saw the participation of 25 heads of institutions from across the diocese.

Bishop Duming Dias introduced the resource person and, in his address, stressed the importance of maintaining proper documentation and ensuring systematic office management for the effective administration of educational institutions

The session was animated by Fr. Francis Assisi Almeida, Regional Secretary for Education, who served as the resource person for the day. The seminar covered a range of topics, including basic educational laws, administrative skills, office management, soft skills, and crisis management.

The program began with a welcome address by Fr. Gabriel Lopes and concluded with an evaluation and vote of thanks by Fr. Royston Gonsalves.

The seminar was informative and practical, providing valuable insights and guidance for the heads of institutions in their educational and administrative responsibilities.