St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu, Mangalore, organized a grand felicitation programme titled “Honor Ad Pastorem – Honor to the Shepherd” to congratulate and honour Most Rev. Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza on his recent appointment and episcopal ordination as the Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi. The celebration commenced with the Holy Eucharist at 6.00 p.m., solemnly celebrated by Most Rev. Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza. The seminary community joined in prayer, thanking God for His abundant blessings upon the newly appointed bishop and invoking divine guidance as he begins his episcopal ministry.

Following the Holy Mass, the felicitation programme was held in the presence of distinguished dignitaries on the dais, including Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza, Bishop Emeritus of Mangalore, Very Rev. Fr Rajesh Melvin Rosario, Rector of St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Rev. Fr Maxim D’Souza, Treasurer of the Seminary, and the chief guest, Most Rev. Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza.

The programme began with a warm welcome address by the Rector, Very Rev. Fr Rajesh Melvin Rosario, who expressed the seminary community’s heartfelt joy in celebrating Bishop Leslie's appointment as the shepherd of the Diocese of Udupi. He assured the bishop of the prayers and support of the seminary family as he undertakes his new pastoral responsibilities. Rev. Fr Maxim D’Souza, Treasurer of the Seminary, delivered the felicitation address, tracing Bishop Leslie's journey of priestly ministry and highlighting the qualities that have prepared him for episcopal leadership. The Seminary Choir enriched the celebration with a beautifully rendered felicitation chorus, expressing the seminary community’s heartfelt congratulations and prayers.

Offering words of appreciation, Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza reflected on Bishop Leslie's years of faithful priestly ministry and spoke of his pastoral wisdom, humility, and deep commitment to the people of God. He expressed confidence that Bishop Leslie would lead the Diocese of Udupi with faith, compassion, and courage. Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha congratulated Bishop Leslie on his appointment and acknowledged the trust the Church has placed in him. He encouraged the new bishop to continue shepherding God’s people with zeal and dedication while assuring him of the prayers and support of the Diocese of Mangalore and the seminary community.

Responding to the felicitation, Most Rev. Dr Leslie Clifford D'Souza expressed his sincere gratitude for the warm reception and honour accorded to him. Thanking God for His providence and the many people who had accompanied him throughout his vocation, he reflected on the responsibilities of episcopal ministry. Addressing the seminarians, he encouraged them to remain rooted in prayer, cultivate humility, and prepare themselves to become holy and compassionate priests dedicated to the service of God’s people.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Br Sunil Raju, who expressed gratitude to the bishops, priests, formators, choir members, seminarians, and all those who contributed to the success of the celebration. The event was gracefully compered by Br Aashton D'Souza. The evening was a memorable occasion of thanksgiving and fraternity as the seminary community united to honour Most Rev. Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza on his appointment as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi, assuring him of their prayers and best wishes for a fruitful episcopal ministry.

St Joseph's Interdiocesan Seminary, Jeppu, inaugurated its Theology for the Laity and Religious (2026–2027) programme on 13 June 2026, marking the beginning of a new academic journey aimed at deepening the faith, scriptural understanding, and theological formation of the participants. The programme is guided by the inspiring theme, “Walking Together in Faith, Scripture, and Theology.” The inaugural ceremony commenced with an invocation prayer led by Br Nwtwn. Rev. Dr Rajesh Melvin Rosario, Rector warmly welcomed the dignitaries, faculty members, and participants.

Addressing the gathering, Very Rev. Fr Walter D'Souza, Forane Vicar, encouraged the participants to approach the programme with dedication, openness, and a spirit of discipleship. He emphasized that a sound knowledge of Scripture and theology equips the faithful to become more effective witnesses of the Gospel in their families, parishes, and society. Rev. Dr Milton Jacob presented the programme schedule and offered detailed instructions regarding the academic sessions. The formal programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks proposed by Rev. Dr Alexander Kalarikkal, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful inauguration.

St. Joseph's Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, organized an orientation programme on “Counselling and Its Impact on Holistic Formation” to help seminarians appreciate the value of counselling in their personal, emotional, and spiritual growth.

The resource person for the session was Rev. Fr Victor D'Souza, Assistant Director of Shanthikiran Counselling Centre, Mangalore, and a priest of the Diocese of Mangalore. In his engaging presentation, Fr Victor addressed several common myths surrounding counselling and offered a deeper understanding of its nature and purpose. He explained the various benefits of counselling and emphasized its vital role in promoting emotional well-being, healthy relationships, self-awareness, and holistic human formation. Highlighting its relevance in seminary life, he encouraged the seminarians to view counselling as a positive means of growth that complements their spiritual and pastoral formation.

The session commenced with a warm welcome and introduction of the resource person by Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario, Rector, who underlined the importance of integral formation in preparing candidates for the priesthood. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Br Joseph, expressing sincere gratitude to the resource person for his insightful and inspiring session.

The Observer Wallboard Magazine for the academic year 2026–2027 was inaugurated on 8 July 2026, immediately after the Holy Mass, at St. Josep’'s Interdiocesan Seminary. The programme was graced by the Chief Guest, Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario, whose inspiring presence encouraged the seminary community. The ceremony was gracefully compered by Br Charles.

A special highlight of the event was the announcement of the winner of the Best Caption Competition 2026–2027. Br Blany, an III Year Theology student, received the award for his creative and thought-provoking caption, “Illuminating Minds, Inspiring Hearts.” Rev. Fr Alex Kalarikkal, Director of the Observer Board, was present and guided the programme. The inauguration witnessed the enthusiastic participation of all the Theology and Philosophy brothers, reflecting their keen interest in promoting creativity, communication, and intellectual engagement within the seminary. The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Br. Joshan, I Year Theology, who expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the event.

St. Joseph's Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, organized an awareness programme on the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act to deepen the seminarians’ understanding of child protection and their responsibility in fostering safe environments within the Church and society.

The resource person for the session was Rev. Fr Francis Assisi D'Almeida, Ph.D. in Civil Law, of the Diocese of Mangalore. In his enlightening presentation, he explained the purpose and significance of the POCSO Act, the reasons for its enactment, and the various offences covered under the legislation. He also emphasized the legal responsibilities of individuals and institutions in safeguarding children. The session concluded with an interactive discussion during which the seminarians actively clarified their doubts regarding the practical application of the Act.

The second session was conducted by Rev. Fr. Rajesh Rosario, Rector, who spoke on the Church’s commitment to the protection of minors and vulnerable persons in the light of ecclesiastical law. He familiarized the seminarians with the safeguarding guidelines and directions issued by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), emphasizing the need to cultivate a culture of accountability, vigilance, and pastoral care in every sphere of ecclesial ministry.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Br. Maria Selan, expressing gratitude to the resource persons and all those who contributed to the successful organization of the event. Br. Jerin compered the programme. The awareness programme proved to be both informative and enriching, equipping the future priests with a deeper understanding of their legal and ecclesial responsibilities in safeguarding the dignity and well-being of minors and vulnerable persons.

St Joseph Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, joyfully celebrated sthe feast of St Thomas the Apostle, the Apostle of India, with prayer, fellowship, and community spirit. The celebration commenced with the solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 6:30 a.m. The main celebrant was Very Rev. Dr Clarence Paliath, Vicar General of the Diocese of Kannur, who invited the community to emulate the unwavering faith and missionary zeal of St Thomas in their vocation and daily lives.

Following the Holy Mass, prizes were distributed to the winners of the competitions held in connection with Laudato Si' Day, recognizing their creativity and commitment to promoting care for our common home. Br. Jerin, Secretary of the Malayala Samajam, proposed the vote of thanks, expressing sincere gratitude to the chief celebrant, the organizers, participants, and all those who contributed to the meaningful celebration.

The festivities concluded with a friendly basketball match at 8:30 a.m. between the Theology students and the combined team of Philosophy and Ministerial brothers. The match fostered fraternity, teamwork, and joyful companionship, bringing the celebration to a spirited and memorable rhythm.

The community of St Joseph's Interdiocesan Seminary joyfully celebrated the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul with prayer, fraternity, and joyful fellowship. The occasion also marked the feast day of the Bishop of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, who is named after the two great Apostles. The celebration began with the Holy Eucharist at 6:30 a.m., celebrated by Rev. Fr Harry D'Souza. The liturgy invited the community to reflect on the steadfast faith, courageous witness, and missionary zeal of Saints Peter and Paul, whose lives continue to inspire the Church's mission.

As part of the day’s celebrations, a friendly football match was held at 8:30 a.m. between the Philosophers and Ministerial Year Brothers and the Theologians. Played in a spirit of healthy competition and fraternity, the match fostered camaraderie and strengthened the bonds of community among the seminarians. The celebration concluded on a joyful note, offering the seminary community an opportunity to honour the witness of Saints Peter and Paul while extending prayerful wishes to the Bishop of Mangalore on his feast day.

St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary observed Laudato Si’ Day on with enthusiasm and a renewed commitment to environmental stewardship, inspired by the vision of Pope Francis in his encyclical Laudato Si’. The celebration commenced with Poster-Making and Best-Out-of-Waste Competitions conducted among the various fellowship groups. A formal programme followed, graced by the presence of Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul D'Souza, Bishop Emeritus and Most Rev. Dr Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga Diocese. Addressing the gathering, Fr Maxim D’Souza emphasized the Christian responsibility of protecting creation and cultivating sustainable lifestyles. As a symbolic gesture promoting environmental care, Fr Antony Lasrado distributed saplings to the batch and fellowship leaders.

The programme was compered by Br Ashlin, who guided the proceedings with enthusiasm and grace. Following the formal session, the seminarians gathered in their respective fellowship groups to plant saplings across the seminary campus, symbolizing their commitment to nurturing and preserving the environment. The celebration concluded with each fellowship group being assigned specific environmental and maintenance responsibilities within the seminary premises. Through these practical initiatives, the seminarians reaffirmed their dedication to ecological responsibility and the spirit of Laudato Si’, making the day both meaningful and action-oriented.

The community of St. Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, joyfully celebrated Theologians’ Day bringing together theological students and staff in a spirit of gratitude, fraternity, and reflection.The celebrations began with the Holy Eucharist at 6:15 a.m., solemnly presided over by Rev. Fr. Naveen Pinto, Judicial Vicar of the Diocese of Mangalore and Professor of Canon Law. The liturgy was prayerfully prepared and animated by the theological community, inviting the entire seminary family into a spirit of thanksgiving for the gift and journey of theological formation.

The highlight of the day was the colourful cultural programme held in the evening, creatively presented by theologians from the various years of formation. The presentations were inspired by the life and spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi, commemorating the 800th anniversary of his death. Following the cultural programme, the Message of the Day was delivered by Rev. Fr. Chetan Lobo, OFM Cap., Director of Assisi Press, Mangalore. The theme, “Brothers to All Creation,” resonated throughout the day’s events, reminding everyone that the heart of a theologian must be rooted in Christ’s hope and inspired to radiate His light and love to all creation.