Gulbarga Diocese

On December 30, 2025, the Diocese of Gulbarga was filled with deep joy and thanksgiving as a significant milestone was marked in its spiritual journey. In a solemn and grace-filled Eucharistic celebration held at the Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral, Most Rev. Dr. Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga, ordained Deacon Ancy Vion Lobo as a priest for the diocese.

Rev. Fr. Ancy Vion Lobo, hailing from Loretto Parish, Mangalore, responded generously to God’s call, offering his life in service to the Church and the people of God. The sacred rite of ordination, marked by the Laying on of Hands and the Prayer of Ordination, was a powerful moment that moved the hearts of all present, reminding the faithful of Christ the Eternal High Priest who continues His mission through His ministers.

The cathedral was filled to capacity with priests, religious sisters, seminarians, family members, and lay faithful, all united in prayer and gratitude. The liturgy reflected the richness of the Church’s tradition, emphasizing the call to serve with humility, obedience, and pastoral charity.

In his homily, Bishop Robert Miranda exhorted the newly ordained priest to be a shepherd after the heart of Christ, rooted in prayer, faithful to the Word of God, and compassionate toward the poor and the marginalized. He encouraged Fr. Ancy to live his priesthood as a sign of hope and unity, especially in the mission territories of the diocese.

Following the Holy Mass, a felicitation programme was held to honour the new priest. Messages of congratulations and appreciation highlighted Fr. Ancy’s journey of faith, formation, and dedication. The presence and prayers of his family added a deeply personal and emotional dimension to the celebration.

The Priestly Ordination of Fr. Ancy Vion Lobo stands as a moment of immense grace and blessing for the Diocese of Gulbarga. It was truly a day of joy, gratitude, and renewed hope, as the local Church rejoiced in the gift of a new shepherd called to serve God’s people with faith, love, and missionary zeal.

2026-01-09 20:24:33

Bidar, 18 December 2025:
The Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), Bidar Unit, under the Diocese of Gulbarga, successfully organised “Shanthidootha – An Inter-Religious Christmas Programme” on 18 December 2025 at the Poojya Sri Channabasava Pattadevaru Ranga Mandir, Bidar. The programme was a meaningful initiative aimed at promoting peace, harmony, and brotherhood among people of different faiths, in the true spirit of Christmas.

The programme commenced at 5:15 p.m. and witnessed the gracious presence of religious leaders, government officials, youth representatives, and members of various faith communities. The gathering stood as a powerful testimony to unity in diversity and mutual respect among religions.

The event was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Robert Michael Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga. His presence and message inspired the youth and the gathering to become messengers of peace and hope in society. The programme was blessed with divine grace by Poojya Mate Akka Sharadamma of Basavakalyan and Rev. M. P. Jayapaul, Ex-District Superintendent of the Methodist Church, Bidar South.

The Chief Guest, Sri Mukul Jain, IAS, Commissioner, Corporation of Bidar, addressed the gathering and appreciated the initiative of ICYM in fostering inter-religious harmony, especially among the youth. The Shanthidootha Award was conferred on Sri M. D. Shakeel, KAS, Assistant Commissioner, Bidar, in recognition of his dedicated service and contribution towards peace and communal harmony.

Several distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Sri Manprit Singh, Proprietor of Inspira SRS Resort & Convention Hall; Rev. Fr. Steavan SDB, Rector, Don Bosco, Bidar; Sri Rahul Nandi, Class-I Contractor, PWD; Rev. Fr. Sachin Christy, Secretary, Youth Commission, Diocese of Gulbarga; Sr. Maria Swetha A.C., Superior, Maria Nilaya Convent, Bidar; Sri Sudhir Unnikrishnan, Secretary, Diocesan Pastoral Council, Gulbarga; Sri Suresh N. Doddi, President, Catholic Association, Bidar; and Miss Nikitha, Joint Secretary, REXCO, Bangalore.

The programme included cultural presentations and messages highlighting the values of peace, compassion, service, and coexistence, which lie at the heart of all religions. The youth played a vital role in organising and coordinating the programme, reflecting the active leadership and commitment of ICYM Bidar Unit.

Rev. Fr. Clary D’Souza, Dean of Bidar Deanery, extended a warm invitation and encouragement to the youth and participants. The ICYM leadership, including Miss Riya, Youth President (St. Joseph Church, Bidar), Sr. Priya D’Souza, Lady Animator, ICYM Bidar Unit, and Miss Veena Yeshwanth, Youth President (Sacred Heart Church), actively contributed to the success of the programme.

Shanthidootha truly lived up to its name—“Messenger of Peace”—by spreading the Christmas message of love, goodwill, and harmony across religious boundaries. The programme concluded with heartfelt Christmas and New Year greetings, wishing everyone a joyful, grace-filled Christmas and a blessed New Year 2026.

2025-12-20 22:05:08

St. Francis Xavier Church, Sedam joyfully celebrated the Silver Jubilee of its 25-year mission, a remarkable journey that began in the year 2000 through the dedicated efforts of Fr. Jayraj Putti from the Diocese of Ballari. The solemn Thanksgiving Mass was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga. In his homily, the Bishop reflected on the inspiring missionary spirit of St. Francis Xavier, describing him as a true herald who “prepared the way of the Lord.” He highlighted that the wilderness—quiet and sacred—was the space where God molded His missionaries.

Several former priests who served the parish graced the occasion, including
Fr. Norbert Fernandes, SJ, Fr. Arogya Swamy, MSFS, and Fr. Selvaraj, MSFS. Deanery priests, religious sisters, and a large number of lay faithful were also present to witness this significant milestone. A solemn procession through the nearby colonies marked the celebration. Faithful carried color candles and the statue of St. Francis Xavier, expressing devotion and gratitude. After the procession, Bishop Robert Miranda led the community into a prayerful Thanksgiving Benediction.

A short felicitation program, organized by Fr. Antony Selvam, the Parish Priest, honored the priests who served the parish over the years. A Souvenir commemorating the Silver Jubilee was also released on this memorable occasion. Bishop Robert Miranda blessed the newly renovated presbytery, adding joy to the day’s celebrations. Both Fr. Norbert SJ and the Bishop addressed the gathering, expressing gratitude for the dedicated pastoral service rendered to the people of Sedam.

The program was well coordinated by Fr. Vincent Pereira, and the parish children added color to the celebration with their beautiful cultural performances. The Silver Jubilee celebration became a moment of thanksgiving, renewal, and hope for the entire parish community of Sedam.

2025-12-08 17:23:03

The Jeevan Jyothi Camp, held from 28 to 30 September 2025 at the Infant Jesus Shrine in Bhalki, was a grace-filled experience that brought together 80 Catholic boys and girls of the 10th Standard for three days of faith, fellowship, and renewal. Animated by the Youvachetha Team, the camp began with joy and enthusiasm, and the presence of the Bishop added a special blessing as he celebrated the Holy Mass and spoke to the children about the call to live a holy life.

Throughout the three days, the participants were guided by a rich variety of sessions led by inspiring resource persons. Fr. Sachin Christy opened the sessions with his talk on the Dynamics of Jeevan Jyothi, motivating the young people to live vibrantly in Christ. Mr. David Muchalamba enlightened them on the meaning of the Sacraments and Holy Mass, underlining their importance in daily Christian living. Fr. Satish OFM Cap offered reflections on Mother Mary as a Model for Christian Life, presenting her as a guide and example for discipleship, while Rev. Fr. David highlighted the value of Biblical Leadership, focusing on servant leadership rooted in Scripture.

The camp also featured talks on topics close to the hearts of the youth. Fr. Deepak inspired the participants with his session on Divine Vocation – Call for Holiness, encouraging them to respond generously to God’s call. Fr. Roshan D’Souza addressed the pressing issue of Cyber Crime and Cyber Safety in Today’s World, guiding the students towards responsible and safe use of technology. Fr. Aron Vas spoke on Love and Friendship, helping the young people form meaningful and healthy relationships. For the girls, Sr. Lynnet SRA led an enriching session on Purity in Life, encouraging them to value chastity and dignity.

The sessions were supported and enriched by the presence of Sr. Kamala SCCG, Sr. Vinitha Gonsalves BS, Sr. Ignatia SRA, and Sr. Presintha SMMI, whose accompaniment added depth and warmth to the program. Alongside the inputs, the camp was filled with moments of joy through animation, action songs, group games, and cultural activities that created an atmosphere of unity and celebration. At the same time, the Eucharistic celebrations and adoration formed the spiritual heart of the camp, leaving the participants strengthened in their faith and renewed in their commitment to Christ.

In the end, the Jeevan Jyothi Camp at Bhalki proved to be an occasion of grace and renewal, empowering the young students to embrace holiness, grow in their faith, and become joyful witnesses of Christ in today’s world.

2025-10-01 10:59:28

A special program on the Constitution of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) was held on September 14, 2025, at the Sugyan Diocesan Pastoral Center, Kotnoor. The event was organized under the guidance of the Episcopal Regional Adviser and the Chair of the Karnataka Charismatic Renewal. The resource person, Mr. Santhosh Talachira, a member of the National Service Team, spoke on the central goals of CCR, highlighting the need to experience Baptism in the Holy Spirit, to understand and use the Charismatic gifts, to discover the power of prayer, to promote evangelisation, and to foster ongoing growth in holiness.

Mr. Cherian, addressing the participants, emphasized that charisms are gifts given by Jesus to the Church for service, to be lived in obedience to the Church. Bro. William assisted the team during the sessions. As part of the day’s proceedings, a new diocesan charismatic team was formed. Mr. Praveen Paul was chosen as Coordinator for Bidar, while Mr. Arogyaswamy from Shahabad was appointed as Coordinator for Gulbarga. The secretaries selected were Ms. Bini Shah for Bidar and Ms. Arathi Swamy from Cathedral Parish for Gulbarga. The treasurers elected were Mr. Arun for Bidar and Ms. Jija Sebastian from Cathedral Parish for Gulbarga.

The program was graced by the presence of several priests. Fr. Richard Pais, Director of Cross, represented Fr. Franklin and was present as the Spiritual Director of the team. Fr. Santhosh Bapu, Vicar General, and Fr. Clary D’Souza also participated in the event, along with 35 priests, religious sisters, and lay charismatic members from different parts of the diocese.

A highlight of the day was when Most Rev. Dr. Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga, blessed the newly formed team by laying hands on them, invoking the gift of the Holy Spirit. The celebration concluded with the Holy Eucharist, during which the Bishop reflected on the complete self-offering of Jesus—His head, hands, legs, and heart—and invited the faithful to examine themselves with the question: “Where are we standing?”

The event proved to be a moment of renewal, strengthening the faith and mission of the charismatic movement in the Diocese of Gulbarga.

2025-09-15 09:50:55