The Diocese of Karwar joyfully celebrated the ordination of five new priests during a solemn Eucharistic celebration held at Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, Kajubhag, Karwar. The sacred rite of ordination was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar.

The newly ordained priests are Fr. Ceephus Rodrigues, Fr. Claudius Raja Doss, Fr. Rohan Fernandes, Fr. Sandeep Gomes, and Fr. Simon Siddi, who were ordained to the holy order of priesthood to serve the Church and the people of God. A large number of priests, religious brothers and sisters, seminarians, and faithful from various parishes of the diocese participated in the joyous celebration.

In his homily, Bishop Duming Dias reflected on Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd, highlighting the essential qualities of a shepherd that every priest must embody—self-giving love, humility, compassion, faithfulness, and a deep sense of responsibility towards God’s people. He exhorted the newly ordained priests to live their priesthood as true shepherds after the heart of Christ. The Bishop also expressed his sincere gratitude to the parents and families of the newly ordained priests for their sacrifices, prayers, and support in nurturing these vocations.

After the Holy Mass, a brief felicitation program was organized to honor the newly ordained priests. On behalf of the Cathedral Parish, Fr. Thomas Fernandes, Rector of Our Lady of Assumption Cathedral, proposed the vote of thanks, acknowledging all those who contributed to the smooth conduct of the celebration. Fr. Gabriel Monis served as the master of ceremony, and candidates were trained and guided for the ordination by Fr. Sachin D’Souza.

The celebration concluded with a fellowship meal, which was served to all those present, marking the joyful occasion of thanksgiving and unity.