Udumala Bala's solemn installation as the new Archbishop of Visakhapatnam marked a historic moment for the Archdiocese of Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
The installation ceremony took place on the grounds of St. Peter’s Cathedral campus in Visakhapatnam, drawing a large gathering of clergy, religious, and faithful on April 3, 2025.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Cardinal Anthony Poola, Archbishop of Hyderabad, who formally handed over the pastoral staff to Archbishop Udumala Bala.
This symbolic act marked the beginning of his pastoral leadership in the archdiocese.
Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, read the papal bull of appointment in Latin, officially announcing the Holy Father’s decision.
All bishops from the Telugu region attended the solemn liturgical ceremony. Archbishop Peter Machado of Bangalore, Vice President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI); Archbishop Raphy Manjaly of Agra; Archbishop Victor Henry Thakur of Raipur; Archbishop John Barwa of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar; Bishop Henry D’Souza of Bellary; Bishop Peter Abir of Sultanpet; Bishop Niranjan Sual Singh of Sambalpur; Bishop Ignatius Mascarenhas, Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh; Bishop Aplinar Senapati of Rayagada; and Bishop Sarat Chandra Nayak of Berhampur concelebrated at the Holy Mass.
Father Stephen Alathara and Fr. Gangula Vignan Das represented the CCBI. Their presence underscored the occasion's national significance.
Hundreds of priests from dioceses across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, along with nuns and thousands of faithful, participated in the ceremony, witnessing this significant transition in the life of the archdiocese.
Jaya Rao Polimera, Bishop of Eluru and Apostolic Administrator of the Archdiocese of Visakhapatnam, planned the installation ceremony.
Archbishop Bala succeeds Archbishop Prakash Mallavarapu, who led the Archdiocese for 12 years with dedication and was widely respected for his pastoral leadership and contributions to the Church and society.
In his address, the newly installed archbishop expressed gratitude to Pope Francis for entrusting him with this responsibility.
He also appreciated his predecessor, the clergy, religious, and laity for their prayers and support. He reaffirmed his commitment to serving the people of God with humility and dedication.
Gali Bali, Bishop Emeritus of Guntur, delivered the homily, highlighting the importance of faith, unity, and missionary zeal in spreading the Gospel.
He urged the faithful to build a church that is inclusive, compassionate, and dedicated to social justice.
Following the liturgical celebration, a felicitation program honored the new archbishop, with church and civic leaders offering congratulations and prayers. A reception was held, fostering a spirit of communion and joy among those gathered.
With Archbishop Bala at the helm, the Archdiocese of Visakhapatnam embarks on a new chapter, guided by his pastoral experience and deep commitment to the mission of the Church. - Canisha Judith
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