January 4, 2024, the Catholic Diocese of Karwar, under the auspices of the Catholic Christian Forum, hosted a spectacular “Christmas and New Year Celebration” on Wednesday, January 3, 2024. The festive event took place at 6:15 p.m at Mayur Varma Vedike, Tagore Beach, Karwar, drawing a diverse audience from various communities.

Presided over by Most Rev. Bp. Derek Fernandes, the Bishop of Belgaum, and Apostolic Administrator to the Diocese of Karwar. The event was graced by the esteemed presence of Chief Guest Mr. Manoj Vasant Baadkar, Retired Inspector General, Indian Coast Guard Service. The gathering included numerous priests, religious figures, government officers, and thousands of attendees from different religious backgrounds, coming together to celebrate the joyous occasion.

The program commenced with a warm introduction by Fr. Valerian Sequeira, setting the stage for an evening cultural expression. The atmosphere was filled with the spirit of Christmas as students from St. Michael School led a prayer dance, creating a captivating and spiritual ambiance.

In his Christmas message, Most Rev. Bp. Derek Fernandes emphasized the importance of peace, both in the world and within our hearts. The Bishop’s words resonated with the audience, urging everyone to reflect on the significance of harmony and goodwill.

The chief guest, Mr. Manoj Vasant Baadkar, expressed his appreciation for the valuable contributions of the Christian community. He commended their dedicated service and issued a call to the youth, encouraging them to excel in various fields, with a special emphasis on sports.

Adding to the cultural richness of the event, Our Lady of Assumption Church, Kajubhag, and Our Lady of Piety Church, Kone, presented enchanting cultural items that captivated the audience. Additionally, the students of Ashaniketan Special School performed a heartwarming Christmas tableau, showcasing the inclusive spirit of the celebration.