Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Antonysamy Savarimuthu of the Diocese of Palayamkottai as the new Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
The appointment is effective from November 4, 2024.
This decision follows the resignation of Archbishop Antony Pappusamy, who stepped down from his pastoral duties at the age of 75, in accordance with Canon Law (CIC can. 401 §1).
In announcing the papal appointment, Archbishop Pappusamy read the official letter, stating, “Bishop Antonysamy Savarimuthu of the Diocese of Palayamkottai will take over as Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Madurai.”
Bishop Savarimuthu, born on December 8, 1960, was ordained a priest on April 26, 1987, for the Diocese of Palayamkottai. He was appointed as the bishop of Palayamkottai on November 20, 2019, and has served the diocese in various capacities over the years.
His extensive experience includes roles as secretary to the bishop (1987-1989), professor at the Minor Seminary (1989-1992), rector of Christ Hall Seminary in Karumathur (2000-2004), and vicar general.
Bishop Savarimuthu holds both a licentiate and a doctorate in Canon Law from the Institut Catholique de Paris.
His academic background also includes studies at St. Peter’s Minor Seminary, Madurai, and St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bangalore.
With his deep pastoral and academic expertise, Bishop Savarimuthu is well-equipped to guide the Archdiocese of Madurai during this transitional period.
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