Diocese of Gulbarga Marks 20th Anniversary of Bishop Robert Miranda’s Episcopal Ordination

Kalaburagi, Karnataka, 18 August 2025 – The Diocese of Gulbarga celebrated with joy and gratitude the 20th anniversary of Bishop Robert Miranda’s episcopal ordination and the 20th year of the canonical erection of the diocese at the Mother of Divine Grace Cathedral, Kalaburagi.

The day began with a solemn Thanksgiving Eucharist presided over by Bishop Miranda and concelebrated by diocesan priests. In his homily, the Bishop posed a thought-provoking question: “If the Diocese of Mangalore had not taken up the Bidar mission, and if the Jesuit Fathers had not embraced the Bijapur mission, what would have been the situation of faith in our diocese today?”

Drawing inspiration from the Gospel, he likened the missionary journey to the disciples who struggled to catch fish until the Lord revealed His plan. He recalled Christ’s words to Peter, “Do you love me more than these?” and underlined that it was the Lord’s plan of love that gave life to the mission. Emphasising his role “to serve and not to be served,” Bishop Miranda urged the faithful to continue building a synodal Church rooted in love, communion, and service.

A cultural and felicitation programme followed at Mother Teresa Church Hall, coordinated by Fr. Santhosh Bapu, Vicar General, and Fr. Joseph Praveen, Cathedral Parish Priest. Highlights included a prayer dance by the children of St. Mary’s School, a wishing song by the Sisters, and a video presentation titled In the Spirit of the Lord, prepared by Fr. Roshan D’Souza, Director of Premavani Communications. The video reflected the Bishop’s missionary zeal, struggles, and milestones.

Fr. Ananda Prabhu SJ delivered heartfelt words of felicitation, praising the Bishop’s dedication and pastoral care. A cake-cutting ceremony then marked the joyous occasion. In his anniversary message, Bishop Miranda expressed gratitude to God and all collaborators in the mission. Speaking with humility and conviction, he shared his vision: “We may not have everything, but we have what is possible in our hands – faith, people, and hope. With these, together, we can build the Kingdom of God in Gulbarga.”

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Fr. Praveen Joseph, leaving the gathering uplifted and inspired.

The day stood as a milestone for the Diocese of Gulbarga—an occasion of thanksgiving, renewed vision, and strengthened missionary commitment.

Source: Diocese of Gulbarga

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