Bishop Emeritus Aloysius Paul D’Souza Celebrates 30 Years of Episcopal Consecration

Share

Share

Share

Share

Email

Share

Mangaluru: The Diocese of Mangalore marked a historic milestone on Friday, May 15, 2026, as Bishop Emeritus Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza celebrated the 30th anniversary of his episcopal leadership. Often hailed as the ‘People’s Bishop,’ the prelate was honored during a Pearl Jubilee event held at St. Joseph Church, Jeppu. Having been consecrated in 1996, Bishop D’Souza served as the active head of the diocese for 22 years, making him the second-longest-serving bishop in its history. His tenure is remembered for transformative developmental projects, including the founding of major medical and engineering institutions and the historic publication of the first Catholic Bible in Konkani.

The celebrations began with a solemn Thanksgiving Mass led by the Jubilarian. The current Bishop of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, co-celebrated the Mass and delivered a poignant homily. Bishop Saldanha reflected on his predecessor’s motto, “With the tender Compassion of Jesus Christ,” praising Bishop D’Souza for his unwavering pastoral care and the deep empathy he has consistently shown to the faithful. The ceremony was attended by a host of high-ranking clergy, including Vicar General Msgr. Maxim L. Noronha and several diocesan officials, alongside religious sisters and family members.

Following the spiritual observance, a formal felicitation programme took place at the Jeppu Centenary Memorial Hall. Very Rev. Fr. Rajesh Rosario, Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary, presented the official citation, highlighting the Bishop Emeritus’s continued active service even in retirement. Fr. Rosario noted that the Jubilarian is defined by his encouragement of others, his humble lifestyle, and his profound prayer life. In his address to the gathering, Bishop D’Souza expressed deep gratitude for his decades of ministry, stating that he has dedicated his life to serving Jesus and the community with sincerity and love.

The landmark event saw participation from a wide cross-section of society, including prominent civil dignitaries such as MLC Ivan D’Souza and Principal Government Pleader M.P. Noronha. Leaders from various religious congregations, including Superiors General from the UFS, HMR, and Bethany orders, were also present to pay their respects. The programme, which featured a welcome address by Msgr. Maxim L. Noronha and a vote of thanks by Rev. Dr. Praveen Joy Saldanha, was professionally compered by Fr. Rupesh Madtha, Editor of Raknno weekly, concluding a day of significant historical importance for the regional Catholic community.