A one-day seminar for the Catechism Teachers of Kone and Kajubag Deaneries was successfully held on 28 June 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre, under the leadership of Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Commission for Faith Formation. The formation programme brought together 36 catechism teachers from the two deaneries, offering them an enriching day of spiritual renewal, learning, and practical training.
The seminar began with a prayer service, invoking God’s blessings upon the participants and their mission of nurturing the faith of children. In the inaugural session, Fr. Cyprian Silva spoke on the theme “Becoming Effective Catechism Teachers”. He reminded the participants that catechists are called not only to teach the faith but also to become authentic witnesses of Christ through lives of prayer, commitment, and exemplary Christian living. He encouraged them to inspire children by both their words and their personal witness.
The second session was led by Fr. Valento Fernandes, who reflected on “Growing in Faith within the Family”. Emphasizing the family as the first school of faith, he encouraged catechists to foster greater collaboration with parents in the faith formation of children. His practical insights and inspiring message motivated the participants to strengthen family involvement in catechetical ministry.
In the afternoon, Fr. Cyprian conducted a demo catechism lesson, introducing creative teaching methods, interactive activities, and practical approaches to make catechism classes more engaging, meaningful, and child-friendly. The demonstration provided valuable guidance on communicating the truths of faith effectively to young learners.
The participants also celebrated the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. Intru, Procurator of the Diocese. In his homily, he reflected on the call to detach ourselves from worldly distractions and dedicate ourselves to the mission entrusted to us through Baptism as priest, prophet, and king. He encouraged the catechism teachers to continue their ministry with zeal, generosity, and unwavering commitment.
At the concluding session, Fr. Cyprian Silva expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his constant guidance, encouragement, and support to the Commission for Faith Formation. He also thanked the parish priests of Kone and Kajubag deaneries for sending their catechism teachers, Fr. Intru for making the necessary arrangements, Fr. Valento Fernandes for his inspiring presentation, and all the participants for their generous service and dedication to the Church.
The seminar concluded on a joyful and hopeful note, with the catechism teachers returning to their respective parishes spiritually renewed, enriched with practical teaching methods, and inspired to continue their mission of forming young disciples with greater enthusiasm and dedication.
