Missionary Childhood Association Day Inspires Young Catholics in Shimoga Diocese

Shimoga, February 1, 2026: The Missionary Childhood Association (MCA) Day 2026 was celebrated with enthusiasm and spiritual fervour in the Diocese of Shimoga, drawing children into a deeper awareness of faith, kindness and missionary responsibility.

The diocesan-level celebration brought together 256 children, accompanied by 23 animators and seven religious sisters, reflecting the growing commitment of the diocese to nurturing missionary consciousness among young Catholics.

Addressing the children, Fr. Alvine Stanislaus, Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies, Shimoga, guided them through the central theme of kindness and mission, encouraging them to begin their missionary journey through compassion, service and concern for others. This was followed by an input from Fr. Maxim Dias, Regional Secretary for Pontifical Mission Societies, KROSS, Bengaluru, who explained the origins, vision and mission of the Missionary Childhood Association.

The spiritual highlight of the celebration was the solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Bishop Duming Dias, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Shimoga. He underlined the call to live the spirit of Holy Childhood through everyday actions rooted in faith and generosity.

Later, Msgr. Fr. Stany D’Souza, Delegate of the Apostolic Administrator, encouraged the children to grow in good conduct, sincerity in studies and faithfulness in prayer. The programme concluded with an address and prayer by Fr. Franklin D’Souza, Diocesan Youth Director, invoking God’s blessings on all present.

By Catholic Connect Reporter