The pastoral visit of Most Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, to Holy Family Church, Joida, was held on 20th and 21st September 2025. The parish priest, Fr. Stephen D’Souza, together with the faithful, warmly welcomed the Bishop in a solemn procession. Fr. Nathaniel Cruz, resident of St. Paul Chapel, Kumbarwada, and Fr. Intru Pinto, Procurator of the Diocese, were also present.

The visit commenced with a fraternal interaction at Holy Family School, where the Bishop met the staff and students, encouraging them in faith and education. He then visited the Fathima Sisters community and extended his pastoral closeness. The Bishop also visited the sub-stations of Bapoli, Chapkand, and Kumbharwada, administered Holy Communion to the sick, celebrated liturgy in the Ward, and led a prayer service at the cemetery for the faithful departed.

On Sunday, 21st September, the day began with Morning Prayer and Adoration, followed by the solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist. After Mass, the Bishop held meetings with the parish associations, offering valuable guidance for their mission. He also made pastoral visits to families who had distanced themselves from the Church, inviting them back to the fold. Later, he interacted with local political and religious leaders, fostering bonds of mutual respect and cooperation.

In his message, Bishop Duming Dias emphasized the importance of union with the Holy Mother Church and encouraged all the faithful to work towards growth in both spiritual and social life.

The pastoral visit was marked by prayer, fraternity, and encouragement, greatly strengthening the faith and unity of the parish community of Joida.