St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary joyfully celebrated the traditional festival of Onam on 26 August 2026 under the auspices of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam. The celebrations began on the evening of 25 August with a solemn prayer service led by Br Tony and Br Sham. The prayer service invoked God’s blessings upon the celebrations and set a spiritual tone for the festival.  The following day, the celebration reached its spiritual centre with the Festival Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr Binoy Kuriyalachery, of the Diocese of Belthangady. Following the Eucharistic celebration, the Vachana Mozhikal, the homily magazine of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam, was released by Rev. Fr Binoy Kuriyalachery. The Punjiri magazine was also released by Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario, Rector of the Seminary. Br Jerin, Secretary of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the celebration.

The festive spirit was further enhanced by a beautiful pookalam, a traditional floral design prepared by the members of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam. Various games and competitions were organized for both priests and brothers, providing opportunities for recreation and fellowship. The tug-of-war emerged as one of the major highlights of the celebrations, drawing enthusiastic participation and cheerful support from the seminary community. A traditional Onasadya, consisting of an elaborate spread of Kerala delicacies, was prepared for the festive meal. Adding a special touch to the occasion, Br Augustine, dressed as Maveli, the legendary and beloved king associated with Onam, brought smiles and laughter to everyone gathered. The festive lunch was accompanied by a vibrant cultural programme organized by the brothers in the seminary refectory. Traditional music and various performances added colour to the celebrations and provided a joyful conclusion to the day’s festivities.

The Onam celebration at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary was more than a celebration of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. It was a beautiful occasion of togetherness, gratitude, friendship, and shared joy, strengthening the bonds of fraternity within the seminary family and reminding everyone of the values of unity and fellowship that lie at the heart of the festival.

Mangaluru, August 20, 2026: The Chair in Christianity at Mangalore University, in collaboration with St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary, Jeppu, organized a National Symposium on the theme “Christian Thought in India: Context, Culture, and Social Transformation” on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Centenary Memorial Hall of the seminary. The day-long academic gathering brought together theologians, academicians, researchers and students to reflect on the contribution of Christian thought to Indian society, culture and social transformation.

The symposium began at 9:30 a.m. with a prayer song presented by the students of Lourdes Central School. This was followed by a graceful welcome dance by the students of St. Agnes Central School, Bendur. The inaugural ceremony was presided over by Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore. Prof. Valerian Rodrigues, renowned social scientist and former professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University; Dr Preethi Dsouza, Head of the Konkani Adhyayana Peetha, Mangalore University; and Mrs Judith Mendonca, Syndicate Member of Mangalore University, graced the occasion as chief guests. Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University); Rev. Dr Rajesh Melvin Rosario, Rector of St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary; and Rev. Dr Sunil George D’Souza, Head of the Chair in Christianity at Mangalore University, were also present on the dais. Rev. Dr Sunil George D’Souza welcomed the gathering. The inaugural programme was compered by Br Justin, while the vote of thanks was proposed by Rev. Dr Rajesh Melvin Rosario.

Prof. Valerian Rodrigues, in his address, reflected on the influence of the Gospel and the contribution of Indian thinkers such as Chennappa, Mahatma Gandhi and Dr B. R. Ambedkar to social reform, democracy and the struggle against caste discrimination. He noted that values found in the Christian message, such as equality, fraternity, justice and liberty, have a meaningful connection with the ideals expressed in the Indian Constitution. He stressed the importance of critically engaging with Christian thought in the Indian context so that it may respond effectively to the challenges of contemporary society.

Dr Preethi Dsouza focused on the Preamble of the Indian Constitution and its ideals of liberty, equality, fraternity and justice. Drawing inspiration from Abraham Lincoln’s understanding of democracy, she explained how the life of a faith community can also reflect democratic values through participation, responsibility and collective action. She appreciated the efforts of the Chair in Christianity in creating a space for meaningful academic discussion and dialogue.

In his presidential and inaugural address, Most Rev. Dr Peter Paul Saldanha emphasized the need for Christianity to address continuing social challenges, particularly caste and gender discrimination. Referring to Pope Francis’ vision of universal fraternity, he called upon people to move beyond indifference towards compassion, inclusion and genuine encounter. He stressed the importance of promoting Bandhutva, or universal brotherhood, in society. He also offered the invocation and Episcopal Blessing.

The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ, Vice-Chancellor of St Aloysius (Deemed to be University), Mangaluru. During the programme, Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ was felicitated for his recent distinction of being conferred the honorary rank of Colonel and appointed Colonel Commandant of the National Cadet Corps by the Government of India in July 2026. Sr Janet AC of St. Agnes PU College read the words of felicitation and citation. The gathering warmly congratulated Rev. Dr Praveen Martis SJ on this prestigious achievement.

The symposium continued with four technical sessions featuring ten research paper presentations. Faculty members and scholars from institutions including Mangalore University, St Aloysius University, Roshni Nilaya, Karnataka Theological College and St. Joseph’s Institute of Theology participated as presenters and moderators.The papers explored a wide range of themes related to Christian thought and its relevance to contemporary India. The discussions included Christian leadership in social reform, the influence of digital culture, indigenous Christian praxis, contextual approaches to biblical interpretation, and the contribution of Christian institutions to education and healthcare. The academic sessions provided an opportunity for participants to examine Christianity not merely as a religious tradition but also as a significant contributor to India’s social, educational, cultural and intellectual life.

The symposium concluded with a vibrant cultural presentation. The seminarians of St. Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary presented “Suranjalia,” a musical extravaganza directed by Rev. Fr Flavian Rajkiran Lobo. This was followed by an energetic presentation of traditional Gumta folk music by Gumta Dhaiz, Arva, directed by Mr Walter Crasta. The symposium served as a meaningful platform for academic dialogue on the relationship between Christianity and Indian society. By bringing together faith, culture, scholarship and social concerns, the event highlighted the continuing relevance of Christian thought in contributing to a more just, inclusive and humane society.

A farewell programme was organized at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary to express gratitude and appreciation to Rev. Fr Antony George Pinto for his dedicated service to the seminary. After serving the institution in various important capacities, Fr Antony George is now proceeding to Germany for pastoral ministry. The programme began at 7:00 p.m. with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, giving the seminary community an opportunity to thank God for Fr Antony George’s service and to pray for his new mission. His years of service as a Professor, Human Formation Director, and Head of the Department at St Joseph’s Institute of Theology (SJIT) were remembered with gratitude. Through his teaching, guidance, and personal accompaniment, he contributed significantly to the academic, human, and spiritual formation of the seminarians.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, a small felicitation programme was held. Rev. Fr Antony Lasrado, Parish Priest of St Joseph’s Church, Jeppu, delivered the words of felicitation. He expressed appreciation for Fr Antony George’s dedicated service and wished him God’s blessings as he begins his pastoral ministry in Germany. As a mark of gratitude, Most Rev. Dr Aloysius Paul Dsouza, Bishop Emeritus, Very Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario the Rector, and Rev. Fr Alexander Kalarikkal the Director of St Joseph’s Institute of Theology felicitated Fr Antony George. The gesture expressed the appreciation of the seminary community for his years of commitment and service.

In response, Fr Antony George Pinto expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the bishops, priests, staff, and seminarians for their love, support, and cooperation throughout his years of service. He recalled his experiences at the seminary with gratitude and sought the prayers of the community as he begins this new chapter of his ministry in Germany. The programme was compered by Br Albin, who guided the gathering through the different moments of the felicitation. At the conclusion of the programme, the seminary choir sang a hymn of praise to God, bringing the farewell celebration to a prayerful and joyful close.

St. Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, celebrated the 80th Independence Day of India on 15 August 2026, bringing together the values of faith, patriotism, unity and service. The celebration was organized by the Hindi Academy under the theme “Patriotism, Heritage, Unity & Hope.” The first part of the celebration was the Solemn Vespers held on 14 August 2026 at 7:30 p.m. in the Main Chapel. The community gathered in prayer and thanksgiving as they prepared to celebrate both the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Independence Day of India. The reflection for the Vespers was given by Br. Augustine, who invited the community to deepen their faith and recognize God's blessings in their lives and in the nation. The following morning, began with the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration at 6:30 a.m. in the Main Chapel. The Eucharist was presided over by Rev. Fr Cyril Lakra S.J. The celebration of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, coinciding with Independence Day, provided an opportunity for the community to offer prayers of gratitude for the gift of freedom and to entrust the nation to God’s providence.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the community gathered at 7:30 a.m. for the Independence Day programme. The programme began with Br Regis Tigga as the Master of Ceremonies, followed by the welcome address delivered by Br Paul Wansai. The Independence Day address was given by Br Anthony Prajwal followed by the parade led by Br Sanjeevan. The flag was hoisted by chief guest, Rev. Fr Cyril Lakra S.J.  In his address, he highlighted the meaning of freedom and the responsibility that comes with it. He encouraged everyone to cultivate patriotism, respect India's rich heritage, promote unity and work together for a better future. The Hindi Academy presented a patriotic song, adding joy and enthusiasm to the celebration. The programme concluded with the vote of thanks proposed by Br Nwtwn Rabha, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the successful celebration.  The celebration of the 80th Independence Day was a meaningful blend of prayer, patriotism and community spirit. The combination of the Vespers, Eucharistic celebration and Independence Day programme reminded the seminary community that faith and love for the nation can inspire one another. As the nation celebrated 80 years of independence, the community renewed its commitment to building a society marked by unity, peace, justice, service and hope.

St. Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangalore, joyfully celebrated New Priests’ Day along with the Feast of St. John Mary Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, with great devotion, fraternity, and gratitude. The day was marked by prayer, sports, the Holy Eucharist, cultural celebrations, and fellowship.The day began on a lively note with a Volleyball Match at 8:45 a.m. between New Priests and Seminarians. The friendly match strengthened the spirit of fraternity and sportsmanship among the participants. At 11:00 a.m., the seminary community gathered for the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration. The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr Shebin George, while the homily was delivered by Rev. Fr Loyd D'Souza. The celebration was a thanksgiving for the gift of priesthood and a prayerful invocation for the newly ordained priests as they begin their pastoral ministry.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, the Vianney Day Celebrations were organized by the students of II and III Theology in honour of the patron saint of priests. The cultural programme was gracefully compered by Br. Lance. A special highlight of the cultural programme was the celebration of the birthday of Rev. Fr. Antony Pinto, which added a joyful dimension to the occasion. The seminary community extended warm wishes and prayers, expressing gratitude for his dedicated service and priestly ministry. During the felicitation programme, Rev. Fr. Milton Jacob delivered the words of felicitation, appreciating the commitment and generosity of the newly ordained priests as they embraced their vocation. Rev. Fr. Rajesh Rosario, Rector, congratulated the new priests and encouraged them to remain faithful, humble, and zealous servants of Christ and His Church. Fr. Pius Khangrah speaking on behalf of the new priests, expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, the seminary authorities, formators, teachers, family members, and all those who had accompanied them on their journey towards the priesthood. The celebrations concluded with a festive lunch, where the seminary community gathered together in a spirit of joy and thanksgiving. 

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.