In a significant move to bolster the Catholic Church’s presence and outreach in India, Pope Francis appointed four new bishops across key dioceses in the country.
The appointments, announced by the Vatican on November 9, 2024, reflect the Pope’s commitment to nurturing the Church’s mission in diverse cultural and social contexts in India.
The newly appointed bishops are: Fr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, appointed Bishop of Vellore in Tamil Nadu; Fr. Thomas D'Souza, named Bishop of Vasai in Maharashtra; Rev. Anthony Das Pilli as Coadjutor Bishop of Nellore in Andhra Pradesh; and Bishop Paul Simick, who now serves as Bishop of Bagdogra in West Bengal after his notable tenure as the Apostolic Vicar of Nepal.
Bishop-Designate Ambrose Pitchaimuthu: National Leader and Pastoral Guide
Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, 58, appointed as Bishop of Vellore, has long been at the forefront of mission efforts in India.
Having led as the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies and the Executive Secretary for Proclamation at the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India, Pitchaimuthu is known for his strategic vision and deep commitment to evangelization.
His academic credentials include a Doctorate in Philosophy from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, and he has previously served as vice-rector and professor.
His leadership in Vellore is expected to invigorate the diocese’s mission activities and strengthen the Church’s outreach in Tamil Nadu.
Bishop-Designate Thomas D'Souza: A Shepherd for Vasai
Bishop-Designate Thomas D'Souza, 54, has been a guiding presence in Maharashtra, particularly in Vasai, where he was born and has ministered extensively.
With advanced studies in Philosophy and Religion from Madras University, D'Souza has served as Rector, pastor, and educational leader.
His current role as Principal of St. Joseph High School in Nandakhal has underscored his dedication to integrating faith and education. His leadership in Vasai is expected to foster community development and spiritual renewal.
Bishop Paul Simick: A Legacy of Service and Cross-Border Ministry
Bishop Simick, age 61, brings a wealth of experience, having led the Catholic community in Nepal for a decade.
Born in Darjeeling, he holds a Doctorate in Biblical Theology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome. Ordained in 1992, he has dedicated his ministry to diverse roles, including parish service, theological education, and diocesan leadership.
His appointment to Bagdogra signals a strengthening of cross-border ties and pastoral support in northeastern India, a region with deep historical and spiritual connections to Nepal.
Coadjutor Bishop-Designate Anthony Das Pilli: Leading with Scholarship and Faith
Anthony Das Pilli, 51, named Coadjutor Bishop of Nellore, brings an academic rigor to his ministry with a Doctorate in Dogmatic Theology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University.
Since his ordination in 2000, he has served as secretary to the bishop, rector, pastor, and seminary professor.
His commitment to theological education and formation equips him to support and eventually succeed in leading the Nellore diocese, where the faithful will benefit from his scholarly approach and pastoral care.
This series of appointments reflects Pope Francis's strategic emphasis on pastoral leadership, theological depth, and cultural sensitivity within India’s diverse Catholic community.
The new bishops, with their varied backgrounds and expertise, are well-prepared to shepherd their communities in faith, education, and service.
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