James Patteril ordained as new Bishop of Belthangady Diocese

James Patteril was ordained as the new and second Bishop of the Diocese of Belthangady on Wednesday (November 5).

The solemn Episcopal Ordination ceremony was led by the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Raphael Thattil. He was joined by Archbishop Joseph Pamplany of the Tellicherry Metropolitan Archdiocese and 44 Bishops who had arrived from various parts of India. Over 400 priests, religious sisters, and many Christians participated in the sacred ceremony, a release from the Diocese said.

Following the ordination, a public felicitation ceremony was held to congratulate the new Bishop and express gratitude to retiring Bishop Lawrence Mukkuzhy.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Patteril said that God has given him the responsibility of serving the people.

Mr. Mukkuzhy, who retired after 26 years of service, expressed gratitude to everyone who had supported him throughout his long life of service.