BELAGAVI
In a solemn and deeply spiritual ceremony on Tuesday, the Diocese of Karwar witnessed the ceremony of consecration and solemn installation of its third Bishop, Most Rev Duming Dias.
The event took place at 9 am at the sprawling grounds of St Joseph’s School, Kajubhag, Karwar, amidst a huge gathering of devout faithful, clergy, and distinguished guests from all over Karnataka.
The consecration ceremony in Konkani was graced by the presence of Cardinal Philip Neri Ferrão of Goa, along with 14 other bishops. About 400 priests, 300 nuns, and approximately 8,000 faithful, witnessed the solemn consecration that went on for over 3 hours.
Following the sacred rites of consecration, the venue was transformed into a place of jubilation as the faithful, clergy, and dignitaries joined in a felicitation programme.
Archbishop of Bangalore Bishop Peter Machado and Bishop of Shivamogga Francis Serrao expressed their heartfelt congratulations to Bishop Duming Dias on behalf of all the bishops present. Octogenarian Archbishop Emeritus of Bangalore Bernard Moras was also present.
Bishop Dias was consecrated by Archbishop Peter Machado, Bishop Derek Fernandes and Bishop Francis Serrao at the end.
The congregation burst into laughter when outgoing Bishop Derek Fernandes, who served the Diocese of Karwar as its bishop for 12 years, and as an apostolic administrator for 5 years in his humorous speech, said that he has lost his job.
Bishop Fernandes extended his warm wishes and gratitude to Bishop Dias, expressing sentiments of unity and continuity in the diocesan leadership.
Amid accolades from various dignitaries and well-wishers, Bishop Duming Dias addressed the gathering and the people of Karwar in his maiden speech as the new bishop.
With humility and conviction, he revealed his chosen theme, drawn from the Bible verse, “At your word, Lord.”
“In accepting the call to shepherd the Diocese of Karwar, I have anchored my service upon the profound trust in God’s word,” declared Bishop Dias. “I shall lead the flock entrusted to me, trusting in the providence of God, striving to do His will and I will guide His flock with unwavering faith and dedication,” Bishop Dias said.
Cardinal Ferrao welcomed at Karwar
The Diocese of Karwar extended a warm and hearty welcome to Cardinal Filip Neri Ferrao with an escort at the Karnataka border. He was also felicitated on behalf of the diocese. The Cardinal congratulated Bishop Duming Dias and the people of Karwar and imparted his solemn blessings to the assembly.
