Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, made his pastoral visit to St. Joseph’s Church, Ambewadi, Dandeli, on 29th and 30th November 2025. Bishop Duming Dias was warmly received by the St. Michael School community and Fr. Santhosh Noronha. The day began with a visit to St. Michael’s High School, where he interacted with the staff and students, encouraging them to grow in faith and excellence.

He then visited the ASU and Ganesh Gudi substations, meeting the faithful and offering words of blessing and support. A fraternal lunch was hosted at St. Michael’s Convent, followed by a meeting with the Sisters, during which we appreciated their dedicated service to the parish and neighborhood. The bishop also visited the Asha Kiran ITI College at Dandeli.

In the afternoon, the Bishop joined the parish Women’s League for the Divine Mercy Prayer. Later, he was formally welcomed at the parish church, where he spent time in prayer with the community.

The bishop also visited the parish cemetery, offering prayers for the departed. This was followed by a series of meetings with various parish associations, including the Women’s League, MCA Members, ICYM Members, Parish Pastoral Council, and Parish Finance Committee.

The first day concluded with visits to the sick, where the bishop imparted blessings and words of comfort to the elderly and the infirm.

The second day began with Morning Prayer and the inauguration of the newly built Grotto of Sleeping St. Joseph, a moment of joy and spiritual significance for the parish. Bishop Duming then offered Mass instruction for the Confirmation candidates, after which 39 children received the Sacrament of Confirmation, sealing their commitment to the Catholic faith. Fr. Santhosh Noronha, Parish Priest, thanked Bishop and Fr. Intru Pinto and all those who made this day a memorable one.

A General Assembly Meeting was held after Mass, providing all parishioners with an opportunity to meet the Bishop, share their concerns, and receive his pastoral guidance. He also had dedicated meetings with choir members, EMHC members, and catechism teachers.

The pastoral visit continued with visits to the homes of priests, seminarians, or sisters, appreciating their contribution to the mission of the Church. The visit concluded with a fellowship lunch, after which Bishop Duming Dias departed, leaving the parish strengthened, inspired, and renewed in faith.