Marriage Preparation Handbook "Growing Gracefully" Released for Mangalore and Udupi Dioceses

Udupi, June 26, 2026: A significant milestone in family ministry was marked during the Karnataka Regional Family Commission meeting held at Anugraha Pastoral Centre, Udupi, with the release of the Marriage Preparation Handbook titled Growing Gracefully in both English and Konkani.

The handbook has been specially prepared to guide and enrich Marriage Preparation Sessions for couples in the Dioceses of Mangalore and Udupi. The publication aims to provide a comprehensive and faith-based resource that will assist engaged couples in preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage and building strong Christian families.

The handbook was formally released by Most Rev. Dr. Lesly D’Souza, Bishop of Udupi, in the presence of Mr. Lesly Aroza, Secretary of the Karnataka Regional Family Commission, along with the Family Commission secretaries representing various dioceses across Karnataka.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop Lesly D’Souza emphasized the importance of systematic marriage preparation in nurturing healthy and faith-filled family life. He appreciated the efforts of the Family Commission in developing a resource that responds to the pastoral needs of today's couples.

Mr. Lesly Aroza highlighted that Growing Gracefully has been designed to serve as a practical and spiritually enriching guide for facilitators and participants of marriage preparation programmes. The availability of the handbook in both English and Konkani will make it accessible to a wider audience in the region.

The release took place during the Karnataka Regional Family Commission meeting, which brought together diocesan representatives to discuss initiatives aimed at strengthening family ministry and promoting Christian family values across the state.

The publication of Growing Gracefully marks a collaborative effort of the Family Commission and is expected to enhance the quality and effectiveness of marriage preparation programmes in the Dioceses of Mangalore and Udupi.

By Catholic Connect Reporter