Media Release

Shivamogga, Aug 4: The diocese of Shimoga celebrated Vianney Day on August 4th at Sannidhi, Shivamogga, bringing together priests and religious for a meaningful occasion marked by prayer, reflection, and fraternal bonding. The celebration was preceded by a clergy recollection organised by Apostolic administrator of diocese of Shimoga, bishop Duming Dias, diocese of Karwar on August, 3rd and 4th.

The theme of the recollection was final draft of Synodality. Bishop Duming Dias took first session on "Spirituality of Synodality". He said that Spirituality of Synodality means “walking together” as God’s people. It calls us to first listen to the Holy Spirit in prayer and Scripture, then listen to one another with humility and respect. Through open dialogue and common discernment, we seek what the Spirit is saying to the Church today. The goal is deeper communion among us and a shared mission to bring Christ’s love to the world.

Fr Roman Pinto led the adoration and prepared priests for confessions. Citing the example Judas Iscariot and thirty coins, how he rejected the opportunity given by Jesus for his conversion. He asked the priests to examine their own conscience. Four priests helped in confessional.

On August 4th, Fr Simon Pinto, who serves as the coordinator of the Diocesan Pastoral Commissions for the diocese of Shimoga, conducted a session. The topic of this session was "Implementation of the Final Document Synodality in the Diocese of Shimoga." This gathering was specifically arranged for the diocesan priests and religious individuals who dedicate their service within the Diocese of Shimoga. Following the presentation, the entire assembly was thoughtfully organized into ten distinct groups. The purpose of these groups was to engage in discernment and to articulate their perspectives, drawing upon the insights from the talk and utilizing the three methodologies outlined in the Final Document of Synodality.

Bishop Duming Dias, joined by priests and religious men and women, presided over the Holy Eucharist. During the celebration, the bishop offered a thought-provoking homily based on the witnessing of John Marie Vianney.

The CRI unit of the diocese of Shimoga conducted a special programme, during which the Bishop and all the jubilarians—namely: Fr Richard Pais, Fr Ronald D'Cunha, Fr Victor Pais and Fr Ronald Veigas were felicitated. The unit also organised games for the priests, fostering a joyful and engaging atmosphere.

Bishop Duming Dias then addressed those present, sharing his message and relevant information. Representing all gathered, Fr Stany D'Souza, vicar general of the diocese of Shimoga, extended the vote of thanks.

The entire programme for the priests was thoughtfully coordinated by Fr Sunil Rodrigues OCD, president of CRI, diocese of Shimoga, along with his dedicated team.