Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas Ordained as Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh Diocese

Patiala, Punjab, 14 May, 2025 - In a solemn and historic ceremony held at Yesu Daya Sagar Prarthana Bhawan in Kauli, Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas was installed as the sixth Bishop of the Simla-Chandigarh Diocese on 13 May. The diocese, which spans parts of northern India, welcomed its new shepherd during a Eucharistic celebration attended by bishops, clergy, religious, and laity.

Hailing from Chinnavilai, Tamil Nadu, Bishop Thomas was born on 6 November 1971. He moved to North India in 1988 to begin his priestly formation in seminaries in Lucknow and Jalandhar. He was ordained on 13 May 2001, marking exactly 24 years to the day of his episcopal installation.

Bishop Thomas brings with him over two decades of pastoral and administrative experience, having served in Panchkula, Kauli-Shekhpura, and Sangrur missions. He has also held key roles including Secretary to the Diocesan Priests’ Senate, Director of the Diocesan Enquiry Centre and Media Commission, and Rector of Holy Trinity Regional Major Seminary, Jalandhar. He previously served as regional secretary to the VSCR Commission and president of the regional Association of Rectors of Major Seminaries (ARMS).

Academically, he holds a Doctorate in Sacred Scripture from the University of Vienna, alongside postgraduate degrees in Journalism and Mass Communication, and Human Rights.

The official appointment, made by the late Pope Francis, was read during the service. Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto of Delhi served as principal consecrator, with Bishops Ignatius L. Mascarenhas and Agnelo Rufino Gracias as co-consecrators.

The ceremony concluded with a felicitation event, recognising priests celebrating their Silver and Ruby Jubilees.

By: Simla-Chandigarh Diocese