A two-day renewal program for the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHCs) of the Honnavar and Bhatkal deaneries was successfully conducted on 4–5 July 2026 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre under the auspices of the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, directed by Fr. Cyprian Silva.

The renewal program brought together 116 Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, who participated enthusiastically in two days of spiritual formation, liturgical instruction, and prayer. The program was designed to deepen their understanding of the Eucharist, strengthen their spiritual lives, and renew their commitment to the sacred ministry entrusted to them by the Church.

Throughout the program, participants attended a series of enriching sessions covering important aspects of their ministry. The topics included the role and identity of Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, family life and witness of EMHCs, Eucharistic theology, and a detailed explanation of the various parts of the Holy Mass. The sessions were led by Fr. Gabriel Monis, Fr. Sachin D’Souza, Fr. Valento Fernandes, Fr. Thomas D’Souza, and Fr. Cyprian Silva, who offered both theological insights and practical guidance for carrying out the ministry with greater reverence and dedication.

The spiritual highlights of the renewal included Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, providing participants with meaningful opportunities for prayer, reflection, and personal spiritual renewal.

The program concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar. In his homily, the Bishop emphasized the importance of cultivating a deep prayer life, drawing daily strength from the Word of God, and remaining closely united to Christ in the Eucharist. Addressing the participants after Mass, he encouraged them to live lives of holiness and to become exemplary witnesses of Christ in their families, parishes, and society through their faithful and humble service.

The boarding and catering arrangements for the program were efficiently coordinated by Fr. Intru Pinto, ensuring the comfort and well-being of all the participants.

At the conclusion of the program, the participants expressed their sincere appreciation for the excellent organization, well-planned schedule, enriching sessions, and warm hospitality extended throughout the two days. Many shared that the renewal had strengthened both their spiritual lives and their understanding of the sacred ministry they exercise in the Church.

In his vote of thanks, Fr. Cyprian Silva, Director of the Diocesan Commission for Liturgy, expressed gratitude to the participants for their wholehearted cooperation, the resource persons for their valuable contributions, and the organizing team for their dedicated service. He encouraged the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to continue serving the Eucharistic Lord with faith, humility, reverence, and joyful commitment, becoming living witnesses of Christ in their communities.