Fr Naveen Rebello SVD preached the annual retreat at the Diocese of Shimoga.

Shivamogga, October 18, 2025: Rev. Fr Dr Naveen Rebello SVD, professor of Jnana Deep Vidyapeet (JDV), Pune, preached a 5-day retreat for the clergy of the Diocese of Shimoga from October 12th, 6 p.m., to October 17th, 1 p.m.

Most Rev. Dr Duming Dias, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Shimoga, spoke introductory words, and Rev. Fr. Franklin D’Souza introduced the preacher to the clergy.

The main theme of the retreat was “Joy of being a priest.” Subsequent themes were: One Priest and many identities, How people see priests?, Talk of a priest, The priest as a beloved disciple of Lord Jesus, Priest as a servant of the Word of God, Priest as a minister of the Eucharist, Priest as a brother among brothers, Priest as a coworker in the vineyard of the Lord, Priest as a wounded healer, Priest as a creative evangelizer, and Priest as a missionary disciple.

The retreat was very meaningful and fruitful for the renewal of the clergy of the Diocese of Shimoga.

On the final day of the retreat, Bishop Francis Serrao SJ, Bishop of the Diocese of Mysore, celebrated Holy Eucharist, and Bishop Duming Dias, Apostolic Administrator, concelebrated. Fr. Biju Thomas offered the vote of thanks.