Archbishop Alphonsus Mathias laid to rest

Bangalore, July 15, 2024: Archbishop Emeritus Alphonsus Mathias of the Bangalore Archdiocese, revered for his profound service and spiritual guidance, was laid to rest today at St. Francis Xavier’s Cathedral in Bangalore. Amidst solemn prayers and heartfelt tributes, the funeral mass commenced led by Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. The ceremony honored Archbishop Mathias's enduring legacy of faith and compassion.

Archbishop Peter Machado highlighted Archbishop Mathias' unwavering faith in God and his exemplary justice. Other prominent figures at the funeral included Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, Archbishop of Thrissur. Archbishop Bernard Moras, Archbishop Emeritus of Bangalore and Apostolic Administrator of Mysore and Bishop Thomasappa Anthony Swamy of Chikmagalur diocese. There were also other bishops, auxiliary bishops, religious, and lay people present.

Archbishop Alphonsus Mathias was regarded as one of the greatest leaders of the Catholic Church in India. Archbishop Andrews Thazhath of Thrissur and President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI) praised Archbishop Mathias for his exceptional leadership. He acknowledged the Archbishop’s extensive contributions to the dioceses of Bangalore and Chikkamagalur, and his pivotal role at St. John's Medical College. Archbishop Thazhath lauded Mathias as a model priest, bishop, and Christian who served for over 60 years.

Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli expressed gratitude for Archbishop Mathias’ life, noting his simplicity, wisdom, and humility. He recounted how he had informed the Holy Father of Archbishop Mathias being the oldest living Archbishop Emeritus in India, which impressed Pope Francis. After Archbishop Mathias’ passing, Pope Francis sent a message through Archbishop Peter Machado, expressing sorrow and offering prayerful condolences to the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of the Archdiocese. The Pope commended the Archbishop’s soul to Christ's mercy and imparted blessings to those attending the funeral.

Condolence messages from many cardinals, bishops, and leaders were read out. Archbishop Bernard Moras also offered his condolences. He spoke about the guidance provided by Archbishop Mathias to St. John's Medical Institute during its initial days. Archbishop Moras highlighted Archbishop Mathias' love for the institution and everyone who was part of it. Notably, Archbishop Mathias was the youngest of the bishops at that time.

The mass ended with a vote of thanks by Sr. Maria Goretti, niece of the late Archbishop Alphonsus Mathias. Archbishop Mathias’ contributions and his enduring legacy were fondly remembered by all present, as the community bid farewell to a revered leader.

By Catholic Connect Reporter