Media Release
Shivamogga, Feb 16: The 4th annual orientation and training programme for Diocesan Service of Communion (DSC) leaders of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) in Karnataka, along with the reconstitution seminar of the Karnataka Regional Service of Communion (KRSC), was successfully held from February 13 to 15 at Sannidhi, Diocesan Pastoral Center, Shimoga diocese. A total of 78 leaders, including 5 priests, from 13 DSCs across Karnataka participated.
The programme was presided over by His Lordship Dr Robert Miranda, episcopal advisor to KRSC and bishop of Gulbarga, together with Fr Franklin D’Souza, spiritual animator of KRSC, and Br Victor Joanns, coordinator of CNSC.
The event began on Friday with praise and worship and registration of participants and candidates. Br K J Anthony, former member of KRSC, welcomed the participants and resource persons. Bishop Robert Miranda delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the importance of the charismatic movement and prayer groups in strengthening faith, building community, and evangelization.
Fr Franklin spoke on accompaniment in the Renewal Ministry. Br Victor Joanns introduced CHARIS, explaining how the CCR aligns with Church doctrine, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the statutes of CNSC. After lunch, bishop Robert spoke on “You are Chosen.”
In the evening session, Br Victor explained the process of reconstitution and its guidelines. Fr Franklin led adoration, intercession, and prepared participants for confession. Br Victor highlighted the importance of LSS, BHS, and prayer groups. After supper, participants received the sacrament of reconciliation, followed by silent adoration, the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and rest.
On the second day, the programme began with praise and worship, adoration, rosary, and intercession. Br Victor explained the eligibility criteria and reconstitution process. After breakfast, candidates introduced themselves and expressed their willingness to participate. Adoration began with the voting process. Candidates were then interviewed by a panel consisting of bishop Robert, Fr Franklin, Br Victor, and Br Joakim. After discernment, the new KRSC team for 2026–2029 was announced.
Bishop Robert Miranda celebrated the Holy Eucharist and, at its conclusion, led the oath-taking ceremony and prayed over the elected leaders.
The new KRSC team (2026–2029):
- Episcopal advisor: Bishop Robert Miranda
- Spiritual animator: Fr Franklin D’Souza
- Coordinator: Br Cherian Ramapuram (Bengaluru)
- Secretary: Br Thomas Chinnappa (Bengaluru)
- Members:
- Sr Mercy Menezes (Mangaluru)
- Br Ronald Prakash D’Souza (Mangaluru)
- Br Elias Coelho (Mangaluru)
- Br Japamalai Muthu (Mysuru)
- Br Viju Xavier (Mysuru)
- Br Bosco Solomon (Belgaum)
- Br Joakim Pinto (former officio, CNSC)
On February 15, reporting and planning sessions were held. The KRSC training and meeting concluded with the Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Fr Franklin D’Souza.
Br Cherian Ramapuram, the newly appointed coordinator, expressed gratitude to bishop Robert Miranda, CNSC coordinator Victor Joanns, and spiritual animator Fr Franklin D’Souza for their guidance and support.