New Leadership Appointments Announced in Diocese of Itanagar

Itanagar, April11, 2025: In a significant step to enhance governance and administration, the Diocese of Itanagar has announced key appointments within its Curia on 9 April. Fr. Manu Mathew has been named the new Chancellor, while Fr. Santosh Rabha has taken over as Financial Administrator. Most Rev. Benny Varghese Edathattel, Bishop of Itanagar, made the announcement during a Pre-Easter gathering of clergy and religious at the Bishop’s House.

Fr. Manu Mathew brings over a decade of priestly ministry and notable experience in diocesan administration. As the former Financial Administrator, he spearheaded vital reforms, including a comprehensive overhaul of the accounting system to promote greater transparency and accountability. A product of the diocesan seminary, Fr. Manu also holds a Master’s degree in Biblical Theology from St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bengaluru.

Speaking on his new responsibilities, Fr. Manu stated, “As Chancellor, my priority is to strengthen the administrative and archival systems of the diocese with clarity, transparency, and pastoral sensitivity.”  

Reflecting on his previous role, he added, “Finance taught me discipline and the courage to face uncomfortable truths. In the Chancery, I aim to apply those same values while promoting dialogue and sound documentation.”

Fr. Santosh Rabha, a young and dynamic priest with under five years of ministry, has been entrusted with the role of Financial Administrator. He previously served as assistant parish priest and administrator of a parish and school complex located over 200 kilometres from Itanagar. His new role reflects the diocese’s confidence in his administrative skills and leadership potential.

The Diocese of Itanagar continues to prioritise higher ecclesiastical education among its clergy. Currently, four priests hold Master’s degrees in theological disciplines. Fr. Boniface Dhanwar, a senior priest with a Master’s in Catechesis, previously edited and published a Hindi hymnal. This year, two additional priests have completed their Master’s—one in Catechesis and another in Pastoral Administration. One priest is presently pursuing doctoral studies in Scripture in Jerusalem, while another is set to begin Master’s studies later this year.

These appointments and academic milestones reflect the diocese’s commitment to fostering a well-formed and capable clergy to serve the pastoral and administrative needs of the faithful.

By Fr. Augustine Melangmai