Pope Leo XIV Accepts Resignation of Bishop Vincent Samuel of Neyyattinkara, Kerala

New Delhi, October 18, 2025: His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Rt. Vincent Samuel from the pastoral governance of the Diocese of Neyyattinkara, bringing to a close nearly three decades of dedicated episcopal service.

Bishop Vincent Samuel, born on 10 August 1950 in Arayoor, Kerala, was ordained a priest on 19 December 1975. Over the years, he served in various parishes within the then undivided Diocese of Trivandrum, earning a reputation for his pastoral sensitivity and theological depth.

Pursuing higher studies at the Pontifical Urban University in Rome, he obtained a Doctorate in Systematic Theology in 1987. On returning to India, he joined St. Joseph’s Pontifical Major Seminary, Alwaye, as Professor of Systematic Theology, and later, in 1994, he was appointed its Vice-Rector.

Bishop Vincent Samuel’s life took a significant turn on 14 June 1996 when Pope John Paul II established the Diocese of Neyyattinkara by bifurcating the Diocese of Trivandrum. Recognising his pastoral zeal and academic excellence, the Holy Father appointed him as the first Bishop of the newly created diocese.

For nearly thirty years, Bishop Samuel led the Diocese of Neyyattinkara with unwavering faith and dedication, guided by his episcopal motto, “To serve and save.” His episcopate has been defined by an enduring commitment to pastoral care, educational initiatives, and the spiritual formation of the faithful.

Under his stewardship, the diocese experienced steady growth in both faith and social outreach. Bishop Samuel’s theological insights and compassionate leadership inspired priests, religious, and lay faithful alike to strengthen their witness to the Gospel.

As Bishop Vincent Samuel steps down from active ministry, his legacy remains deeply woven into the fabric of the Diocese of Neyyattinkara—a legacy of service, scholarship, and selfless devotion to God and His people.

Source : CBCI

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