On 6th April 2025, the Catholic Association of the Diocese of Karwar (CADK) organized a political awareness seminar at St. John the Baptist Church Hall, Kumta, bringing together over 230 participants from across the region. The event aimed to awaken a sense of civic responsibility among the laity and encourage active Christian engagement in political and social life.
The seminar was inaugurated by Rt. Rev. Dr. Duming Dias, the Bishop of Karwar, who delivered an inspiring and thought-provoking address. In his keynote speech, the bishop emphasized the need for Catholics to be informed, aware, and proactive in the political sphere. He posed three reflective questions to the gathering: Where are we? What is the challenge of our current political setup? What can we do for the future? Bishop Duming Dias elaborated on each of these questions, encouraging the faithful to evaluate their role in society and to contribute meaningfully towards building a just, inclusive, and value-based political culture.
The program was presided over by Rev. Fr. Lancy Rodrigues, President of the Commission for Laity, who highlighted the importance of educating and empowering the Catholic laity to take leadership in social and political arenas.
Mr. George Fernandes, President of CADK, also addressed the gathering. He encouraged all participants to stay actively involved in civic life and expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone for their enthusiastic participation and support in making the seminar a success
The seminar featured two distinguished speakers Mr. Saver Fernandes and Mr. Rajendra Miranda, both well-known social workers. They shared valuable insights on the current political landscape, challenges faced by the community, and the need for collective action.
As a special addition to the day’s program, prizes were awarded to the winners of the Marian Online Group Singing Competition, which had been conducted earlier
The event also witnessed the presence of several prominent guests and leaders from the diocese, showing strong support for the initiative. The Political Awareness Seminar was a significant step in the diocese’s mission to form conscientious citizens rooted in Gospel values. It served as a call to action for all Catholics to take their rightful place in shaping the future of society through informed and responsible participation in politics.
