Sacred Heart Church, Karikal, Bhatkal, joyfully welcomed Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar, for his pastoral visit on 30–31 May 2026. The visit commenced with a traditional reception, followed by a prayer service and a procession to the cemetery, where prayers were offered for the departed faithful.

During the visit, Bishop Duming Dias met various parish organizations and groups, including the Catholic Women’s League, ICYM members, the MCA Children’s Club, Jesus Youth members, and the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) and Parish Finance Committee (PFC). He encouraged them to remain active witnesses of Christ and to continue their valuable service in the life and mission of the Church.

The bishop also visited the convent and interacted with the religious sisters, appreciating their dedicated ministry and contribution to the parish community.

A special highlight of the pastoral visit was the celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation, which was conferred by Bishop Duming Dias on the children of the parish. In his homily, he urged the newly confirmed to be guided by the Holy Spirit, to deepen their faith, and to become committed disciples of Christ in their daily lives.

The bishop also spent time with the sick and visited the houses of the religious sisters, bringing them blessings, comfort, and pastoral care.

Rev. Fr. Lawrence Fernandes, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Bishop Duming Dias for his inspiring pastoral presence and thanked all parishioners, parish associations, and volunteers for their cooperation in making the visit a spiritually enriching experience for the entire parish community.