Bishops Visit Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte
Mangaluru, October 19: Most Rev. Kishor Kumar Kujur, Bishop of Rourkela, Odisha, and National Chairman of the CCBI Commission for Women, along with Most Rev. Antonis Bara, Bishop of Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh, and member of the CCBI Commission for Women, visited the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, on October 19, 2026.

The prelates were warmly welcomed by Rev. Fr Melvin D’Cunha OCD, Superior of St Joseph’s Monastery, Bikarnakatte, who felicitated them with shawls. Rev. Fr Stifan Perera OCD, the Director of the Infant Jesus Shrine, accompanied the bishops and explained the architectural features of the Shrine, highlighting its distinctive design and spiritual significance.

Both bishops expressed their appreciation for the Shrine’s striking architecture, the deep devotion of the faithful, and the various spiritual activities organised for pilgrims and devotees. Their visit offered an opportunity to learn more about the Shrine’s pastoral mission and its role as a centre of prayer, faith, and spiritual renewal.
The bishops were in the region to participate in Mahilotsava 2026, the eighth National Conference, held at the Divine Call Centre, Mulki, Mangaluru. The conference brought together Church leaders and participants to reflect on matters concerning women and their role in the Church and society.