Mangaluru: The Roman Catholic Diocese of Mangalore celebrated Diocesan Catechism Day at the Jyothi Nivas Main Hall, Pastoral Institute, Bajjodi, honouring 73 top-scoring students of the 10th-grade diocesan catechism examination. The event was organised under the auspices of Mangala Jyothi – Diocesan Biblical, Catechetical and Liturgical Centre (DBCLC).
The celebration brought together students, parents, catechism teachers and clergy in a collective affirmation of faith formation and spiritual growth.
Bishop underscores importance of spiritual grounding
Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, presided over the programme. In his presidential address, he emphasised the importance of strong spiritual foundations for young people.
“In a world increasingly filled with distractions, it is vital that we remain completely focused on Christ,” the Bishop stated. He encouraged students to be guided by the Word of God and to serve as beacons of hope and integrity in society.
The Bishop’s message centred on the role of catechism in shaping moral character, strengthening faith identity and nurturing responsible citizenship.
Testimonies highlight multi-generational impact
A key highlight of the event was the ‘Testimonies of Faith’ session, which illustrated the enduring and multi-generational influence of catechism.
Liesel Lucia Correa, a 10th-grade student from Sacred Heart School, Kulshekar, shared how catechism classes helped her grow spiritually and academically. She spoke about the values of discipline, prayer and responsibility instilled through faith formation.
She was joined by Mrs Molly Almeida from Cascia, representing grandmothers; Mrs Anita Frank D’Sa from the Diocesan Women’s Commission, representing parents; and Dr Preetham Tauro, representing professionals. The speakers reflected on how early catechism shaped their personal and professional lives, instilling habits such as daily prayer and deep respect for parents and elders.
Their testimonies underscored that catechism is not merely an academic exercise but a formative journey influencing all stages of life.
Felicitation of top performers and teachers
During the felicitation ceremony, the 73 top-scoring students were presented with awards in recognition of their outstanding performance in the diocesan catechism board examinations. Their achievement reflected dedication to faith studies alongside regular academic pursuits.
In addition, faith formation teachers who excelled in the diocesan essay competition were specially recognised for their commitment to nurturing young minds in Christian values.
More than 250 attendees, including parents and catechism teachers from across the diocese, participated in the celebration.
Rev. Fr Rohith D’Costa, Director of Mangala Jyothi (DBCLC), welcomed the gathering and set the tone for the programme. The event was also graced by Rev. Fr Santhosh Rodrigues, Director of the Pastoral Institute, and Rev. Fr Alwyn Richard D’Souza, Director of the Family Life Service Centre. Rev. Fr Joseph Uday Fernandes, Headmaster of Milagres High School, served as Master of Ceremonies and anchored the stage proceedings.
Celebration culminates in thanksgiving Eucharist
The half-day event concluded with a solemn Thanksgiving Holy Eucharist celebrated by Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha. The liturgical celebration brought together students, parents and clergy in gratitude for the fruits of faith formation and collective efforts in catechetical ministry.
The Diocesan Catechism Day reaffirmed the Diocese’s commitment to strengthening faith education among youth and recognising excellence in catechism studies, ensuring that spiritual formation continues to remain central to community life.
