New Delhi, September 20, 2025 CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) held a solemn Memorial Mass on Saturday morning at
the Chapel of the CBCI Headquarters, New Delhi, for the repose of the late
Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy, Archbishop Emeritus of Trichur and former Vice President
of the CBCI.<o:p></o:p>

The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by His Grace
Archbishop Anil Couto, Secretary General of the CBCI. In his homily, Archbishop
Anil highlighted Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s outstanding leadership, recalling in
particular the CBCI General Body Meeting held in 2004 at Mary Matha Major
Seminary, Trichur, which was marked by his vision and guidance.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the
CBCI, in his introductory address, reflected on Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s life
and his remarkable contributions to the CBCI during his six-year tenure as Vice
President.<o:p></o:p>

Secretaries of various CBCI offices concelebrated the Mass,
joining in prayer and thanksgiving for the life and ministry of Archbishop
Thoomkuzhy.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Holds Memorial Mass for Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy at Headquarters Chapel

New Delhi, September
20, 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most. Rev. Elias Frank as the new
Archbishop of Calcutta. The announcement was made today in Vatican.<o:p></o:p>

Rt. Rev. Elias
Frank was born on 15 August 1962 in Bantwal, Karnataka, and belongs to the
Diocese of Mangalore. He completed his early education in Modankap and Shillong
before entering priestly formation at St. John Mary Vianney Minor Seminary in
Barasat and later studied philosophy at Morning Star Regional Seminary,
Barrackpore. He pursued his theological studies at the Pontifical Urbaniana
University in Rome, where he also earned a licentiate and later a doctorate in
Canon Law. <o:p></o:p>

Ordained as a
priest on 23 April 1993 for the Archdiocese of Calcutta, he served in several
parishes including Sacred Heart Church in Burdwan and St. Therese of Lisieux in
Durgapur. He also contributed as a judge at the Inter-Diocesan Tribunal in
Kolkata. Academically accomplished, Bishop Elias Frank has served as a
professor of Canon Law in Rome since 2007 and is a visiting professor at the
Alfonsian Academy. He has published books and scholarly articles, and held
roles as an external judge and consultor for Vatican dicasteries. <o:p></o:p>

<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-size:11.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Times New Roman&quot;;
mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;mso-font-kerning:0pt;mso-ligatures:none;
mso-ansi-language:EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Appointed
Bishop of Asansol by Pope Francis on 3 July 2023, he was consecrated on 24
August 2023. Pope Leo XIV has appointed Rt. Rev. Elias Frank, Bishop of Asansol
as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Archdiocese of Calcutta on June 28, 2025.&nbsp;

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Most. Rev. Elias Frank, as the Archbishop of Calcutta

New Delhi, September 20, 2025, CBCI: Pope Leo XIV has
accepted the resignation of Most Rev. Thomas D’Souza, Archbishop of Calcutta.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop D’Souza was born on August 26, 1950. He was
appointed Bishop of Bagdogra, West Bengal, on June 14, 1997, and consecrated on
January 25, 1998. On March 12, 2011, he was nominated Coadjutor of the
Archdiocese of Calcutta, and subsequently appointed Archbishop on February 23,
2012.<o:p></o:p>

For over 13 years, he shepherded the Archdiocese of
Calcutta, during which the local Church flourished under his pastoral guidance
and leadership.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of Archbishop Thomas D’Souza of Calcutta

New Delhi, 20 September 2025 (CBCI): The Holy Father, Pope
Leo XIV, through the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the
Sacraments, has graciously confirmed Saint Lazarus Devasahayam as the Patron of
the Laity in India. This joyful news will be solemnly proclaimed on 15 October
2025 during a Eucharistic Celebration at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Varanasi.<o:p></o:p>

Saint Devasahayam, the first canonized lay Catholic from
India, lived between 1712 and 1752. Having embraced the Christian faith, he
endured severe persecution and ultimately gave his life as a martyr. His
witness to faith remains a shining model for the faithful in our times.<o:p></o:p>

Pope Leo XIV Declares Saint Lazarus Devasahayam Patron of the Laity in India

New Delhi, September 19, 2025, CBCI: The Holy Father Pope
Leo XIV has appointed Rev. Kuriakose Thomas Thadathil of the clergy of the
Archeparchy of Thiruvalla as Apstolic Visitator for Europe for the Syro-Malanka
faithful residing in Europe, elevating him to&nbsp;the&nbsp;episcopate<o:p></o:p>

Holy Father Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. Kuriakose Thomas Thadathil as Apostolic Visitator for Europe

New Delhi, September 19, 2025, CBCI: The Holy Father Pope Leo XIV
has appointed Rev. John Kuttiyil, of the clergy of the Major Archeparchy of
Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara Church, as Auxiliary Bishop of the
same&nbsp;Archeparchy.<o:p></o:p>

Holy Father Pope Leo XIV Appoints Rev. John Kuttiyil as Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archeparchy of Trivandrum

New Delhi, September 11, 2025: The
Third<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-ansi-language:EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"> National
Ecumenical Bishops’ Fellowship Meeting was
held on Sept.
11, 2025, from 02.00 to 03.30 p.m. at the CBCI Centre, New Delhi. About 25
participants took part in it including the Archbishops / Bishops, Church Heads,
and the delegates of various Christian Denominations.<span style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-ansi-language:
EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN"> The CBCI Office for
Dialogue and the Desk for Ecumenism of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of
India (CBCI) facilitated the Meeting. Its main
purpose was to foster the fellowship among the Church leaders and strengthen
the ecumenical movement in India. It also included an ecumenical dialogue <span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-ansi-language:
EN-IN;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN">on the
Draft Guidelines of the National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI).<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-fareast-language:EN-IN;mso-bidi-font-weight:bold;mso-bidi-font-style:
italic">&nbsp;

The Meeting began with the Ecumenical
Prayer Service for Christian Unity adapted from the Resources for the Prayer for Christian Unity for the year 2025, which was jointly
prepared and published by the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity of Roman Catholic Church
(RCC) and the Commission on Faith and Order of the World Council of Churches
(WCC). T<span lang="EN-IN" style="font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-theme-font:
minor-latin;color:windowtext;mso-bidi-font-style:italic">o mark
the 1,700th anniversary of the First Ecumenical Council held at Nicaea in 325
AD, the theme: “Do you
believe this?” (John 11:26) was
chosen for the year 2025. The Prayer Service was led by Bishop
Gerald Mathias of Lucknow, a member of CBCI Office for Dialogue and the Desk for Ecumenism.<o:p></o:p>

The self-introduction of the participants was followed by the presentation
of the Minutes of the Second National Ecumenical Bishops’ Fellowship and
Consultation Meeting held on September 13,
2024 by Fr Dr Anthoniraj Thumma, the Coordinator of the National Ecumenical
Bishops’ Fellowship and Secretary, CBCI Office for Dialogue and the Desk for Ecumenism.
Then, Key-Note Address was delivered by Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios, Chairman
of CBCI Office for Dialogue and Desk for Ecumenism. He presented the background
and Draft Guidelines of the National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI). After
that, it was taken up for deliberation by the delegates during the open house ecumenical
dialogue. Many of them appreciated the Draft Guidelines as being comprehensive
and appropriate. Some suggestions were offered to fine tune the Guidelines and
for its refinement.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;

In
his concluding remarks, CBCI President Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, while appreciating
the preparation of Draft Guidelines, emphasised the urgency of uniting and
working together. At the wake of increasing attacks on the Christians by the
communal forces, he pointed out that it is the need of the hour to project a
united Christian face and have single voice. The Fellowship Meeting came to a
close with the prayer and benediction offered by Rev. Fr Daniel Thomas, Vicar
General of Delhi Diocese of the Mar Thomas Syrian Church. After the Meeting,
the delegates took part in the spectacular programme of Prabhu Jesu Mahotsav, the National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 Celebrations,
and the commemoration of the 1700th Anniversary of the First
Ecumenical Council of Nicaea and Nicaean Creed. These ecumenical events highlighted
the common faith that unites the Churches as expressed by the Nicene Creed.
They also presented a witness to the Christian unity and growing communion
among the Churches in the spirit of joy and hope of the Jubilee 2025.<o:p></o:p>

By Rev.Dr
Anthoniraj Thumma<o:p></o:p>

Ecumenical Dialogue Held on Draft Guidelines of National Federation of Churches in India (NFCI)

New Delhi, September 11, 2025: <a name="_Hlk209094182">The
Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) solemnly celebrated the National Ecumenical
Jubilee 2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea and the
proclamation of the Nicene Creed, marking a historic moment of faith and unity
for the Church in India and across the world.<o:p></o:p></a>



The commemoration began with an ecumenical gathering at St.
Columba’s School, New Delhi, at 4:30 p.m., bringing together Church leaders,
representatives of various Christian traditions, ambassadors of various
countries, religious men and women, lay leaders, and faithful from across the
country. The event highlighted the enduring significance of the Nicene Creed in
strengthening Christian unity and bearing common witness in today’s world.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and
Nepal, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, while Hon. R. Venkataramani,
Attorney General of India, was the Chief Guest. Most Rev. Andrews Thazhath,
President of CBCI and Archbishop of Thrissur, delivered the Presidential
Address, and Most Rev. Anil Couto, Secretary General of CBCI and Archbishop of
Delhi, welcomed the gathering.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. George Antony Samy, First Vice President of CBCI and
Metropolitan Archbishop of Madras–Mylapore, along with Rt. Rev. Joseph Mar
Thomas, Second Vice President of CBCI and Bishop of Bathery, felicitated the
distinguished guests.<o:p></o:p>

The academic session featured Rev. Dr. Stanley Jayakumar
SDB, Professor of Systematic Theology at Don Bosco Theological Centre, Chennai,
who offered profound reflections on “1700 Years of the Nicene Creed.” Following
his address, the Nicene Creed was chanted in Latin. Rev. Dr. Pius
Melakandathil, former professor at Jawaharlal Nehru University and Vicar
General of Kothamangalam Diocese, Kerala, spoke on “The Christian Contribution
to Nation Building in India.”<o:p></o:p>

The cultural program included a fusion performance by
students of Vidyajyoti College of Theology, New Delhi, highlighting the
Christian role in nation building. A prayer dance and the Latin classical
acapella De Profundis were presented by the students of Jesus and Mary
College, New Delhi.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of CBCI,
proposed the vote of thanks. The event concluded with the singing of the
National Anthem.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Celebrates National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the proclamation of the Nicene Creed

New Delhi, September 11, 2025: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) solemnly celebrated the National Ecumenical Jubilee
2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea and the
proclamation of the Nicene Creed with a grand Eucharistic Celebration at the
Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi on September 11th.<o:p></o:p>

The solemn Eucharist was presided over by Most Rev. Leopoldo
Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, and concelebrated by Cardinals,
Major Archbishops, Archbishops, Bishops, and numerous priests from across the
country. In his homily, Archbishop Girelli emphasized the significance of the
Jubilee and the enduring importance of the Nicene Creed for Christian unity and
witness.<o:p></o:p>

Most Rev. Anil Couto, Secretary General of CBCI and
Archbishop of Delhi, welcomed the congregation, while Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal,
Deputy Secretary General of CBCI, expressed gratitude through the vote of
thanks.<o:p></o:p>

The Eucharistic Celebration was a profound expression of
thanksgiving, faith, and communion, drawing thousands of faithful from across
India, including members of the Archdiocese of Delhi, the Archdiocese of
Faridabad, and the Diocese of Gurgaon.<o:p></o:p>

Solemn Eucharistic Celebration Marks CBCI’s National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the proclamation of the Nicene Creed

New Delhi, September 18, 2025: Archbishop Anil Couto,
Archbishop of Delhi and Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference
of India (CBCI), has expressed deep sorrow at the passing away of His Grace Mar
Jacob Thoomkuzhy, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archeparchy of Trichur.<o:p></o:p>

In a condolence message addressed to Mar Andrews Thazhath,
Archbishop of Trichur and President of the CBCI, Archbishop Couto paid tribute
to Archbishop Thoomkuzhy as “a true shepherd who dedicated 52 years of his
episcopal ministry to the Church, guiding the faithful with wisdom, humility,
and vision.”<o:p></o:p>

He recalled the late Archbishop’s outstanding contribution
as Vice President of the CBCI for six years, especially highlighting the
historic General Body Meeting of the Conference held at Mary Matha Major
Seminary, Trichur - a seminary founded by Archbishop Thoomkuzhy himself.<o:p></o:p>

Remembering him as “a visionary leader,” Archbishop Couto
noted that Archbishop Thoomkuzhy guided three dioceses with exemplary
dedication - as the first Bishop of the Eparchy of Mananthavady, the second
Bishop of the Eparchy of Thamarassery, and later as the second Archbishop of
the Archeparchy of Trichur. “With openness of heart and mind, he welcomed
reforms in the Church and embraced the challenges of the modern world, helping
the Church transition with grace from the last century into the present one,”
he said.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Couto further emphasized that Archbishop
Thoomkuzhy will be remembered “with profound gratitude as a pastor who united
deep faith with forward-looking leadership.” He prayed for the repose of the
late Archbishop’s soul and offered condolences on behalf of the CBCI and all
the bishops of India to Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, the clergy, religious, and
faithful of the Archdiocese of Trichur.<o:p></o:p>

“May the Lord grant him eternal rest, and may his life
continue to inspire all of us in our mission of service,” Archbishop Couto
concluded.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Secretary General Archbishop Anil Couto Offers Condolences on the Passing of Archbishop Jacob Thoomkuzhy

New Delhi, September 17, 2025, CBCI: Archbishop Mar Jacob
Thoomkuzhy, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Thrissur, was called to
eternal life at 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. He was 94. A former
Vice President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), he is remembered
as a shepherd of faith, wisdom, and humility who dedicated his life to the
service of the Church and the people of God.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI deeply mourns his passing and prays for the repose
of his soul.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 13 December 1930 at Vilakumadam in the Eparchy of
Palai, Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s family now belongs to Sacred Heart Parish,
Thiruvambady, in the Eparchy of Thamarassery. He pursued his priestly studies
at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Aluva, and at Urban College, Rome, where
he was ordained a priest on 22 December 1956. He later earned a Doctorate in
Canon and Civil Law from the Lateran University, Rome.<o:p></o:p>

Returning to India, he served as secretary to Mar Sebastian
Vallopilly, Bishop of Thalassery, and as chancellor of the eparchy. He was
later appointed Rector of the Eparchial Minor Seminary in Thalassery. After
further studies at Fordham University, New York, where he obtained a Master’s
degree in English Literature, he returned to India and resumed his role as
Rector of the Minor Seminary until his episcopal appointment.<o:p></o:p>

On 1 May 1973, he was consecrated as the first Bishop of the
newly erected Eparchy of Manathavady, serving there for 22 years. On 7 June
1995, he was transferred as Bishop of Thamarassery, where he took charge on 28
July 1995. The following year, on 18 December 1996, he was appointed Archbishop
of Thrissur and was installed on 15 February 1997.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Thoomkuzhy’s resignation upon reaching the
canonical age of retirement became effective on 18 March 2007, when Mar Andrews
Thazhath was enthroned as Metropolitan Archbishop of Thrissur.<o:p></o:p>

May his soul rest in eternal peace.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop Mar Jacob Thoomkuzhy Called to Eternal Rest

New Delhi, 10 September 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India
(CBCI) will tomorrow, 11 September, solemnly celebrate the Ecumenical Jubilee
2025 and the 1700th anniversary of the First Council of Nicaea and the
proclamation of the Nicene Creed, marking a historic moment of faith and unity
for the Church in India and across the world.<o:p></o:p>

The commemoration will open with an ecumenical gathering at St.
Columba’s School, New Delhi, at 4:00 p.m., bringing together Church leaders,
representatives of various Christian traditions, religious men and women, lay
leaders, and faithful from across the country. The event will highlight the
enduring significance of the Nicene Creed in strengthening Christian unity and
bearing common witness in today’s world.<o:p></o:p>

In connection with the Jubilee, the CBCI Standing Committee
will meet in New Delhi on September 11–12, 2025, under the leadership of Archbishop
Andrews Thazhath, President of the CBCI. Around 50 participants, including
Cardinals, Archbishops, and Bishops, are expected to take part in the sessions,
reflecting on the life and mission of the Church in India and addressing
contemporary challenges facing the Christian community and society at large.<o:p></o:p>

Later in the evening of September 11, a solemn Eucharistic
Celebration will be held at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, New Delhi, at 6:30 p.m.,
presided over by Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and
Nepal, and concelebrated by Cardinals, Major Archbishops, Archbishops, Bishops,
and numerous priests. The Mass will be a profound expression of thanksgiving,
faith, and communion, with the participation of thousands of faithful from
across India, including members of the Archdiocese of Delhi, the Archdiocese of
Faridabad, and the Diocese of Gurgaon.<o:p></o:p>

These twin events will stand as a visible witness to the
unity of the Catholic Church in its rich diversity of rites, while reaffirming
the Christian community’s mission to be instruments of peace, reconciliation,
and nation-building.<o:p></o:p>

Church leaders will underscore the continuing relevance of
the Nicene Creed, which unites Christians across centuries and cultures in the
one faith of the Church.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI has expressed deep gratitude to all those
contributing to the success of these historic celebrations, especially clergy,
religious, lay leaders, benefactors, and volunteers whose dedicated service
will make the events memorable.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI to Celebrate National Ecumenical Jubilee 2025 and the 1700th Anniversary of the Council of Nicaea and the Nicene Creed

New Delhi, September 5, 2025, CBCI: The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep sorrow and grave concern over the
recent cloudbursts and landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh during
the 2025 monsoon season. The disasters have claimed several lives, left many
missing, and caused extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.<o:p></o:p>

Highlighting the increasing frequency and intensity of such
calamities, the CBCI noted that climate change and unsustainable development in
the fragile Himalayan region remain urgent challenges.<o:p></o:p>

Offering condolences, the CBCI conveyed solidarity with
bereaved families and those who lost homes and livelihoods, praying for the
recovery of the injured and strength for survivors.<o:p></o:p>

The CBCI has called upon all Christians in India to unite in
prayer and extend compassionate support to the victims. Caritas India, the
humanitarian arm of the Catholic Church, has already launched relief and
rehabilitation efforts in the affected areas. The CBCI urged dioceses,
institutions, and individuals to channel their contributions through Caritas
India.<o:p></o:p>

Reaffirming its commitment, the CBCI pledged continued aid
and advocacy for sustainable measures to reduce the impact of such disasters in
the future.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Mourns Victims of Cloudbursts and Landslides in Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh; Urges Prayer and Support

New Delhi, 4 September 2025, CBCI, The Catholic Bishops’
Conference of India (CBCI) has expressed deep anguish and solidarity with the
people of Punjab and Haryana who are reeling under the worst floods in decades.
Extending prayers and support, CBCI urged the faithful and people of goodwill
to respond with compassion and concrete assistance.<o:p></o:p>

According to reports, the relentless rains and overflowing
rivers have devastated all 23 districts of Punjab, affecting more than 3.5 lakh
people. The agricultural sector, the backbone of the region, has suffered
immense damage with over 3.7 lakh acres of crops submerged. Thousands have been
rendered homeless, facing a long road to recovery.<o:p></o:p>

In a message of empathy and hope, CBCI called upon Catholics
across India to join in fervent prayer for the victims and their families.
Special prayers were also offered for the safety and dedication of rescue
workers engaged in relief operations.<o:p></o:p>

Appealing for urgent action, the CBCI encouraged Christians
and people of goodwill to extend help through food, clean water, medicines, and
shelter. It further requested that contributions be routed through Caritas
India, the humanitarian arm of the Catholic Church, which has already mobilized
its network for relief and rehabilitation.<o:p></o:p>

“The Catholic Church stands ready to accompany the people of
Punjab in this difficult hour and through the long journey of recovery and
rebuilding,” the statement affirmed.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI concluded its appeal by urging all to keep Punjab and
Haryana in their prayers.<o:p></o:p>

CBCI Expresses Solidarity with Flood-Hit Punjab and Haryana; Appeals for Prayer and Aid

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: His Beatitude Mar
Raphael Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, with the assent
of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal as the
new Metropolitan Archbishop of the Eparchy of Kalyan. He has been serving as the
Curia Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Church.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 29 March 1967 at Nirmalagiri in the Eparchy of
Kanjirapally, Archbishop-designate Vaniyapurackal joined the minor seminary of
Kanjirapally in 1982. He completed his philosophical and theological studies at
St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, and was ordained a priest on 30
December 1992. His early pastoral ministry included service as Assistant Parish
Priest at St. George’s Forane Church, Kattappana, and later as Director of
Yuvadeepti, Kanjirapally, in 1995.<o:p></o:p>

In 2000, he pursued higher studies in Rome, earning a
Doctorate in Canon Law from the Holy Cross University. On his return, he served
as Judicial Vicar of the Eparchy of Kanjirapally, Parish Priest in various
parishes, and Defender of the Bond at the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal
Tribunal. He also taught at several seminaries and theological institutes.<o:p></o:p>

In 2014, he was appointed Vice Chancellor of the Major
Archiepiscopal Curia of the Syro-Malabar Church. In 2017, he was elected the
second Curia Bishop of the Church and consecrated on 12 November the same year
with the titular See of Troina. Presently, he is a judge of the Synodal
Tribunal, Chairman of the Search Committee for the selection of teaching staff
at Synodal Major Seminaries, President of the Syro-Malabar Dalit Vikas Society,
and Vice Chairman of the KCBC SC/ST/BC Commission.<o:p></o:p>

Archbishop-designate Vaniyapurackal is fluent in Malayalam,
English, Italian, and German, and brings with him a rich background in pastoral
ministry, canon law, and Church governance.<o:p></o:p>

Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal Appointed New Metropolitan Archbishop of Kalyan

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: His Beatitude Mar
Raphael Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, with the assent
of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Rev. Fr. James Patteril CMF as the
new Bishop of the Eparchy of Belthangady. He has been serving as the Provincial
Procurator of the Würzburg CMF Province in Germany.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 27 July 1962 in Mangalore to Mr. Abraham and Mrs.
Rosamma Patteril, Fr. Patteril hails from St. Mary’s Church, Battiyal, in the
Eparchy of Belthangady. He has four brothers and two sisters. After completing
his schooling, he joined Claret Bhavan, Kuravilangad, for priestly formation.
He pursued philosophy and theology at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute,
Bangalore, making his First Profession on 12 June 1982 and Final Profession on
12 June 1988. He was ordained a priest on 26 April 1990.<o:p></o:p>

Fr. Patteril holds a Bachelor’s degree from Christ
University, Bangalore, and has undertaken research studies in Pastoral Theology
at the Pastoral Theological Institute, Freiburg, Germany. He has served as
assistant parish priest in Udane and Shirady parishes in Belthangady and later
ministered to the Syro-Malabar community in Würzburg, Germany.<o:p></o:p>

Fluent in Malayalam, Kannada, Tulu, English, and German, Fr.
Patteril brings with him rich pastoral, academic, and administrative experience
to his new mission as shepherd of the Belthangady Eparchy.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. James Patteril CMF Appointed New Bishop of Belthangady

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: His Beatitude Mar Raphael
Thattil, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, with the assent of His
Holiness Pope Leo XIV, has appointed Rev. Fr. Joseph Thachaparambath CMI as the
new Bishop of the Eparchy of Adilabad. He has been serving as the Provincial
Superior of the CMI Mar Thoma Province, Chanda.<o:p></o:p>

Born on 24 February 1969 at Nalumukku, Nazareth Valley in
Idukki district, Fr. Thachaparambath joined the minor seminary of the
then-undivided Mar Thoma Province of Chanda in 1985 and made his first
profession in 1989. He completed his philosophical and theological studies at
Darsana Institute of Philosophy and Dharmaram College, Bangalore, and was
ordained a priest on 4 January 1997 by Bishop Mar Vijay Anand Nedumpuram CMI.<o:p></o:p>

Over the years, he has served in multiple roles: parish
priest in Chanda (1998–2002), Finance Officer of the CMI Mar Thoma Province
(2008–2011), and Finance Officer of the Eparchy of Adilabad (2005–2008 and
2017–2023). He has also contributed significantly to the educational apostolate
of the Province.<o:p></o:p>

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Sunrise University, Rajasthan,
Fr. Thachaparambath holds B.Ed. and M.Ed. degrees. He is proficient in
Malayalam, Telugu, and English.<o:p></o:p>

Rev. Fr. Joseph Thachaparambath CMI Appointed New Bishop of Adilabad

New Delhi, 28 August 2025, CBCI: The Dicastery for
the Eastern Churches, through a communiqué from the Apostolic Nunciature, has
confirmed the erection of four new ecclesiastical provinces in the Syro-Malabar
Church. <o:p></o:p>

The Province of Faridabad will have Bijnor and Gorakhpur as
its suffragan eparchies. The Province of Kalyan will include Chanda and Rajkot
as suffragan eparchies. The Province of Shamshabad will have Adilabad as its
suffragan eparchy, while the Province of Ujjain will comprise Jagdalpur, Sagar,
and Satna as suffragan eparchies.<o:p></o:p>

This development marks a significant milestone in the growth
of the Syro-Malabar Church, enabling more effective pastoral care and ecclesial
coordination across India.<o:p></o:p>

Syro-Malabar Church Erects Four New Provinces: Faridabad, Ujjain, Shamshabad, Kalyan  in India

New Delhi, August 25, 2025, CBCI: &nbsp;The Workers India Federation (WIF), the
National Workers’ Organisation of the Catholic Church in India, has strongly
urged the Central Government to introduce a special Labour Code – a fifth code
– exclusively for India’s unorganised workers, that represents nearly 94% of
the country’s workforce. This demand was the central highlight of the WIF
National Assembly, held at the Pastoral Centre, Bhopal, from August 22–24, 2025.
It is seen that while subsuming 29 labour acts into four labour codes, the
rights for legal protection and social security of the informal workers was
almost ignored. In order to distribute the fruits of development in the nation
equitably to all sections of the people in the Nation, enactment of a special
labour code for the unorganised workers is unavoidable. The Annual General Body
Meeting of WIF petitioned the Union Government to enact fifth labour code for
unorganised workers as early as possible, before notifying the existing four
labour codes. <o:p></o:p>

The assembly was inaugurated by Most
Rev. Dr. Alex Vadakumthala, Chairman of the CBCI Office for Labour, the Bishop
of Kannur who underlined that only a distinct law can guarantee social security
and welfare for the unorganised workers. The keynote address was delivered by
Most Rev. A.A.S. Durairaj, Archbishop of Bhopal and Regional Chairman of the MP
Bishops’ Council.<o:p></o:p>

The sessions emphasized that job
security, stable employment and strong social and economic safeguards should be
assured for unorganised workers, who are regularly excluded from mainstream
legal and welfare protections. As a major outcome, WIF announced the immediate
launch of a dedicated forum – “WIF forum for Women Unorganised Workers”, to
empower women labourers by providing them with a platform to voice concerns,
access support, and drive positive change.<o:p></o:p>

More than 100 delegates from across
the fourteen regions all over India participated in the Assembly. The
deliberations were presided over by WIF National President Antony Selvanathan,
while Rev. Fr. George Nirappukalayil, WIF Director and National Secretary, CBCI
Office for Labour, presented the annual activity report.<o:p></o:p>

Thematic sessions on workers’ rights,
social protection, and organisational strategies were addressed by Mr. Joy
Gothuruth, Mr. Joseph Jude, and Mr. Sebastian Palamparambil. Other speakers
included Fr. Shinto Abraham (Director, MP Region), Sameer Lakra (National General
Secretary), Dr. Hemant Kumar (National Treasurer), Sr. Adv. &nbsp;Jasmine Jose (National Coordinator), Priti
Rose Kullu (National Secretary), Feliza Goes (National EXCO Member), Sr. Christy
(National Domestic Workers Movement), Paschal Raphael (President, MP) Joseph Varghese
(Secretary MP), and Ajit Digal.<o:p></o:p>

The programmes and logistics were
successfully coordinated by the regional leadership of WIF–Madhya Pradesh,
ensuring wide participation and fruitful discussions.<o:p></o:p>

<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:&quot;Calibri&quot;,sans-serif;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family:Calibri;mso-fareast-theme-font:
minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-bidi-font-family:&quot;Arial Unicode MS&quot;;
mso-font-kerning:0pt;mso-ligatures:none;mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:
EN-US;mso-bidi-language:ML">By Fr. George Thomas&nbsp;

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