Media Release
Shivamogga, Apr 1: Fr Veeresh Victor Moras, Public Relations officer of the diocese of Shimoga and parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Thirthahalli, has been awarded the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree by Kuvempu University, as per the official notification dated March 23.
His doctoral research titled ‘The Role of Catholic Church in the Empowerment of Koraga Community: A Sociological Study’ highlights the significant contribution of the Church in uplifting the Koraga community, one of the most marginalized tribal groups in Karnataka. The research was carried out under the guidance of Dr Chandrashekhar, senior professor, department of sociology, Kuvempu University.
Born on November 5, 1973, in Arthila, Madanthyar (Dakshina Kannada district), Fr Moras was ordained a priest on May 6, 2022. He is known for his deep commitment to social development, pastoral ministry, and community empowerment. He is fluent in English, Kannada, Konkani, Tulu, and Hindi.
Fr Moras has a distinguished academic background. Apart from his PhD, he holds an LLB degree from National College of Law, Shimoga (2021) and secured First Rank in his MA in sociology from Kuvempu University (2008). He has also completed diplomas in development leadership from Coady International Institute, Canada, and development dynamics from Caritas India, along with degrees in philosophy and theology.
Currently serving as the parish priest of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Thirthahalli, since July 2024, he has also been the public relations officer of the diocese of Shimoga since 2016. He is a member of the council of priests and serves on the advisory committee of Shri Kateel Ashok Pai Memorial College, Shimoga.
Over the years, Fr Moras has held several key leadership positions, including executive director and secretary of the Shimoga Multipurpose Social Service Society (SMSSS), director of Diocesan Charities, director of the Commission for Social Justice, Peace and Development, education secretary of the diocese of Shimoga and the secretary of Mount Carmel Educational Society. He has also served in various government committees related to child welfare, mental health, and social justice.
A committed social worker, he has played a pivotal role in organising grassroots communities. He has facilitated the formation of 55 women’s federations involving over 16,000 self-help group members and established farmer federations benefiting around 900 farmers. He also founded the Streebandhu Multipurpose Souharda Cooperative with a membership of over 10,000 women, contributing significantly to women’s empowerment in the region.
Fr Moras is also a prolific writer. His books include ‘Jesus, The God of Small Things’ and ‘Small Christian Communities’. He has authored several articles in Kannada and Konkani on social, pastoral, and developmental issues.
Widely recognised as a resource person, he has conducted training and workshops on topics such as rights-based development, organisational leadership, strategic planning, government schemes, and interreligious dialogue.
Fr Veeresh Victor Moras’ doctoral achievement is a testimony to his lifelong dedication to academic excellence, social transformation, and pastoral service. His work continues to inspire both the church and society, especially in the empowerment of marginalised communities.