Pope Francis Appoints New Bishops for Four Indian Dioceses

On November 9, 2024, Pope Francis appointed new leaders to serve four dioceses in India, ushering in a season of fresh guidance and stewardship for the faithful communities of Vasai, Vellore, Nellore, and Bagdogra.

Bishop Thomas D’Souza Appointed to Vasai Diocese

Fr. Thomas D’Souza, age 54, has been named the Bishop of Vasai in Maharashtra. Born on March 23, 1970, in Chulne, Vasai, he pursued studies in philosophy and theology at St. Pius X College in Goregaon and was ordained on April 18, 1998. Holding a Master’s degree in Philosophy and Religion from Madras University, Bishop D’Souza’s roles in service have included Rector of the Minor Seminary in Remedy and Pastor of Divine Mercy Church in Bhiwandi. Since 2019, he has led St. Joseph High School and Junior College in Nandakhal as Principal while also serving as Pastor of Holy Spirit Church.

Bishop Ambrose Pitchaimuthu Named Bishop of Vellore

Fr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu, age 58, was appointed as the Bishop of Vellore in Tamil Nadu. Born on May 3, 1966, in Cheyyur, he completed his priestly studies at Sacred Heart Seminary, Chennai, and later earned a Doctorate in Philosophy from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas, Rome. Since his ordination on March 25, 1993, Bishop Pitchaimuthu has been a dedicated servant, holding positions as Assistant Pastor, Professor, and Vice-Rector at Sacred Heart Seminary, and later as Vicar General of Chingleput. For the past six years, he has also served as the National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies in India and Executive Secretary of the Commission for Proclamation of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India.

Coadjutor Bishop Anthony Das Pillai for Nellore Diocese

Fr. Anthony Das Pillai, age 51, has been appointed as Coadjutor Bishop of Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. Born on August 24, 1973, in Donakonda, Bishop Das Pillai pursued studies in philosophy and theology at St. John’s Regional Seminary, later earning a Doctorate in Dogmatic Theology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome. Ordained on April 24, 2000, he has served the Diocese of Nellore in roles including Secretary to the Bishop, Pastor of Gudlur, Rector of St. John’s Minor Seminary, and Professor of Dogmatic Theology. His commitment to theological education and diocesan leadership will guide his service as he takes up this new role.

Bishop Paul Simick Transferred to Bagdogra Diocese

Previously the Apostolic Vicar of Nepal, Bishop Paul Simick, age 61, has been appointed as the Bishop of Bagdogra. Born on August 7, 1963, in Gitdubling, Darjeeling, Bishop Simick earned a Doctorate in Biblical Theology from the Pontifical Urbaniana University. He was ordained on April 9, 1992, for the Diocese of Darjeeling and has since served in roles including Hostel Prefect at Namchi Public School, Pastor of St. Maurice Church in Suruk, Professor of Sacred Scripture at Morning Star College, and Dean of East Sikkim Deanery. In 2014, he was appointed Apostolic Vicar of Nepal, receiving his episcopal consecration in the same year. His extensive pastoral and academic background has prepared him well for his new responsibilities in Bagdogra.

These appointments are an invitation for renewal and growth, as each of these bishops brings extensive experience and devotion to their diocesan communities. In each diocese, a unique chapter awaits as these leaders guide the faithful and build upon the Church’s mission in India. Let us keep these new bishops in our prayers as they step into their roles, supported by the strength of their faith and dedication to service.