Shepherd After God's Own Heart: Msgr. Jose Sebastian Ordained and Installed as Bishop of Jalandhar

Jalandhar, July 12, 2025: The Catholic Church in Punjab witnessed a significant moment of grace and leadership transition as Msgr. Jose Sebastian was solemnly ordained and installed as the Bishop of Jalandhar during a Eucharistic celebration held at the Holy Trinity College Campus in the city.

Among the important dignitaries present was Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, who represented the Holy See at the event. The Episcopal Ordination was presided over by His Grace Dr. Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, Metropolitan Archbishop of Delhi, as the Principal Ordaining Bishop. He was joined by His Excellency Dr. Agnelo Rufino Gracias, Apostolic Administrator of Jalandhar, and His Excellency Dr. Sebastian Vadakel, Bishop of Ujjain, as co-ordaining bishops.

His Excellency Dr. Sahaya Thatheus Thomas, Bishop of Simla-Chandigarh, preached the homily, highlighting the need for unity and outlined the expected qualities of a shepherd after God’s own heart.

The ordination Mass witnessed an emotional moment when the newly ordained bishop's 90-year-old mother stepped forward to offer the offertory, her frail yet faithful hands holding the sacred gifts. As she tenderly presented the tears of joy and pride streamed down her weathered face, mirroring the emotions of the entire congregation.

The atmosphere was charged with an overwhelming sense of love and devotion as the bishop's siblings and friends from his hometown looked on, their eyes brimming with tears. The tender moment was a poignant reminder of the unwavering support and sacrifices of family, which had nurtured the bishop's vocation from its very beginnings. The celebration drew a large gathering of bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful from across the country, who came to witness and participate in the solemn occasion.

During the felicitation ceremony, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, in a beautiful display of ecclesiastical courtesy, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Apostolic Administrator who had selflessly guided the diocese for nearly seven years, while Fr. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, offered words of appreciation and support.

In his address of gratitude, His Excellency Dr. Jose Sebastian expressed heartfelt thanks to the bishops, clergy, religious, and lay faithful for their prayers and presence, as he took up the mantle of shepherding the Diocese of Jalandhar.

By Catholic Connect Reporter

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