- 30 August, 2025
ELURU, Andhra Pradesh, Aug. 30, 2025 – His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop Emeritus of Bombay, toured the Diocese of Eluru from August 26 to 29, 2025, presiding over a series of liturgical celebrations, pastoral interactions, and youth empowerment initiatives. The visit was organised under the leadership of Most Rev. Jaya Rao Polimera, Bishop of Eluru. Cardinal Gracias was accompanied by Cardinal Anthony Poola, Archbishop of Hyderabad, and Mr. Joaquim Reis, senior advocate from Mumbai, during his four-day visit to the diocese.
Warm Reception at Bishop’s House
The visit commenced on August 26 with a grand reception at the Bishop’s House in Eluru, where Cardinal Gracias, Cardinal Poola, and Mr. Joaquim were warmly welcomed with a traditional kumbha harathi and resounding applause from priests and religious. Later, the dignitaries were formally felicitated during a special ceremony held in the bishop’s dining hall.
Ordinations and Milestones
On the second day of his visit, Cardinal Gracias presided over the priestly ordination of four deacons during a solemn Holy Mass attended by over 150 priests. The day also coincided with Bishop Jaya Rao’s 70th birthday, adding significance to the celebration. After the Eucharistic celebration, Cardinal Gracias, Cardinal Poola, and Mr. Joaquim were felicitated, while Bishop Jaya Rao received heartfelt birthday greetings from the gathering.
In the afternoon, Sri Badeti Chanti, MLA of Eluru, extended his respects by honouring the visiting dignitaries. Later, at Nirmalagiri, Cardinal Gracias blessed a newly constructed pilgrims’ shelter. The inauguration was greeted with joyful applause from the faithful present at the ceremony.
Engagement with Institutions and Faithful
On the third day, the delegation visited St. Joseph Dental College and the College of Nursing in Duggirala, where Cardinal Gracias encouraged students to pursue professional excellence rooted in strong values. Mr. Joaquim Reis also addressed the students on the importance of dental ethics.
Later, the delegation visited Pinakadimi and prayed at the tomb of the Servant of God, Fr. Silvio Pasquali. Cardinal Gracias then led a prayer service and celebrated a solemn Mass at the same site, joined by the Catechist Sisters of St. Anne. The Sisters warmly welcomed and honoured the visiting dignitaries with deep respect and affection.
Focus on Formation and Youth
On the final day of his visit, Cardinal Gracias addressed students from seminaries and formation houses in Janampeta village. In his address, he emphasised that priestly formation must remain Christ-centred and rooted in the Gospel while also responding to contemporary challenges.
Later, the Cardinal inaugurated a Job Mela at the Jaisal Training Centre in Vijayarai village. The event, organised by the diocesan Social Service Centre, provided employment opportunities for about 150 rural youth through various companies. During the inauguration ceremony, the Cardinal encouraged young people to work diligently for personal growth and societal development, while Mr. Joaquim Reis stressed the need for the Church to continue empowering the youth.
A Memorable Pastoral Visit
The historic visit concluded with a high tea at the Bishop’s House, where Cardinal Gracias expressed his deep gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him, Cardinal Poola and Mr. Joaquim. He also praised the vibrant pastoral life of the diocese. Bishop Jaya Rao, in turn, assured the Cardinal of the diocese’s enduring gratitude and prayers. The visit stands as a significant milestone in the history of the Diocese of Eluru.
By Fr. P. Bala,
Vicar General,
Diocese of Eluru
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