Roots of Faith – The Story of Yermal–Uchhila
Nestled along the highway connecting Udupi and Mangalore NH66, lies the quaint village of Yermal, popularly known as Uchhila. This small yet vibrant locality is home to a close-knit Catholic community of around 50 families, whose deep-rooted faith and unity have stood the test of time.
As early as 1935 and even before, this area formed part of the Shirva Church. Oral traditions recall that priests would visit the village atleast thrice a year to celebrate Holy Mass in the homes of the faithful. During those early days, the responsibility of coordinating these spiritual gatherings rested with the Gurkar, a role faithfully carried out by Vivian D’Souza, ( the grandfather of the present Bishop-elect). This legacy of service was later continued by his son, Lawrence D’Souza.
With growing faith and determination, the local Catholic families—including the D’Souza clan and six other families—collectively contributed towards acquiring approximately 3.62 acres of land. Their dream materialised when a chapel was built and blessed on 25th April 1961.
Over the years, this humble chapel became the centre of spiritual life, eventually being elevated as the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church Yermal. It was formally inaugurated as a parish on 25th May 1993, with Rev. Fr Peter Nazareth as its first resident priest. The parish continued to grow in strength and devotion, culminating in the construction of a new church, which was blessed on 14th May 2015. The Silver Jubilee of the parish was joyfully celebrated on 25th May 2018, marking 25 years of vibrant parish life.
Birth and Early Formation of a Shepherd:
It was in this deeply faith-filled environment that Msgr Leslie Clifford DSouza was born on 19th August 1962 to Lawrence and Cecilia D’Souza, a devout and hardworking family of agriculturists.
At a time when there were no nearby Church or convent-run schools, young Leslie pursued his early education in local Hindu institutions in Uchhila. Despite limited resources, he stood out as a bright and intelligent student.
The simple chapel, the occasional visits of priests, and the deeply religious atmosphere at home played a profound role in nurturing his faith. These early spiritual influences gradually awakened in him a call to serve God, guiding him towards the priesthood.
A historic moment arrived on 19th May 1990—a red-letter day for Yermal—when its son of the soil was ordained a priest by the late Bishop Basil S DSouza, commemorating his 25 years as Bishop 1965 – 1990.
Probably this marked the first priestly vocation from this small village, filling the community with immense pride and joy.
Formation, Talents, and Early Ministry:
During his seminary formation, Fr Leslie was known among his peers as an active, creative, and enthusiastic individual. He was particularly admired for his sporting talents, excelling in football and volleyball, which made him a popular figure among fellow seminarians.
He began his priestly ministry as Assistant Parish Priest at the Holy Rosary Church Kundapura from 1990 to 1992, followed by three years of service in Kulshekar from 1992 to 1995.
Alongside his pastoral duties, he pursued higher studies and completed his Master’s degree in English Literature. Recognising his academic aptitude, he was appointed to teach at St Joseph Seminary from 1995 to 1997.
Impressed by his intellectual abilities and promise, Church authorities encouraged him to pursue doctoral studies abroad. He proceeded to Belgium, where he specialised in Moral Theology, completing his Ph.D between 1997 and 2003.
On his return, Rev Dr Leslie DSouza served as Formator and Professor at St Joseph’s Inter-diocesan Seminary from 2003 to 2010, playing a key role in shaping future priests with wisdom and dedication.
Rev Dr Leslie Clifford DSouza – Scholar, Formator, and Parish Builder:
Blessed with a deep thirst for knowledge and formation, Bishop-elect Msgr Leslie Clifford D’Souza pursued higher studies with remarkable dedication. After completing his M.A. in English Literature, he went on to obtain his Master’s and Licentiate in Sacred Theology, along with a Diploma in Psychology and Formation. His academic journey reached a significant milestone when he successfully completed his Ph.D. in Moral Theology from the prestigious KU Leuven in Belgium.
On returning to Mangalore, Rev. Dr. Leslie C. D’Souza took up the vital role of Formator and Professor at St Joseph Inter-diocesan Seminary. From 2003 to 2010, and later as a visiting professor until 2013, he played a formative role in shaping future priests—imparting not only theological knowledge but also instilling values rooted in faith, discipline, and pastoral commitment.
A new and vibrant chapter in his pastoral life began in June 2010 at St John the Evangelist Church, Shankarpura.
As Vicar, he emerged as a true shepherd, introducing initiatives that fostered unity and strengthened the sense of belonging among parishioners, nurturing them as one family in Christ. His vision extended strongly into the field of education as well. The institutions under St John’s received renewed focus under his leadership. Through constant encouragement and thoughtful evaluation, he motivated both teachers and students to strive for excellence, thereby strengthening the academic and moral foundation of the community.
The people of Pangla continue to hold him in deep respect and affection. His seven-year tenure is fondly remembered as a period of renewal and growth—a true renaissance for the parish. It was during this fruitful phase that Fr Leslie Clifford D’Souza joyfully celebrated his Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee, offering heartfelt gratitude to the Almighty for His abundant blessings and guidance throughout his priestly journey.
As Parish Builder at Mount Rosary:
On 5th June 2017, a small group of priests and just over half a dozen parishioners from Pangla quietly arrived at Mount Rosary Church to accompany Fr Leslie Clifford D’Souza. There was no grand welcome, no long convoy of vehicles—just a simple, humble priest stepping onto the sacred altar to take charge from Fr Philip Neri Aranha, the visionary behind the newly built spacious church.
What followed in the years ahead became a cherished chapter in the history of the parish.
The liturgy under his guidance became not only meaningful but also spiritually uplifting and attractive. The choir was revitalised, and the youth—especially ICYM and YCS—were encouraged to make the church campus a place not only to pray but also to grow, engage, and belong.
With the support of his assistant, Fr Clany D’Souza—once his own student in the seminary—he entrusted significant responsibilities, particularly in nurturing children and youth. The completion of the Mount Rosary English Medium High School building marked a milestone, and Fr Leslie made it a point to visit the school daily, living out the principle that “cleanliness is next to godliness” not merely in words, but in action.
Several developmental works enhanced the beauty and functionality of the parish: a serene grotto took shape, the compound was secured with a boundary wall, an open stage was constructed, and the cemetery was given a dignified new look with an attractive entrance.
The unforeseen arrival of Covid in 2019 temporarily slowed many activities, yet the church remained open for prayers and Holy Mass. During this challenging time, Fr Leslie, along with his assistant and resident priests, ensured that the faithful continued to receive spiritual nourishment and pastoral care.
A striking quality of Fr Leslie was his deep humility. He never sought publicity and was often hesitant—even reluctant—to pose for photographs or step into the limelight.
The undersigned can personally vouch for the enriching experience of participating in Finance Committee and Pastoral Council meetings under his able leadership. His calm, thoughtful, and inclusive approach left a lasting impression on all.
Soon came the moment to bid farewell. Though his official term was to be six years, it was cut short to five, as a greater responsibility awaited him in the vineyard of the Lord—as Vicar Forane of Shirva.
Even in departure, true to his nature, there was no grand send-off. Just a handful of representatives—barely a dozen—gathered to bid him goodbye to Shirva. That was Fr Leslie: simple, sincere, and deeply spiritual.
And with folded hands, he left behind one humble request: “Keep me in your prayers.”
A Shepherd Chosen for a Greater Mission :
When Rev. Dr. Leslie C. D’Souza was handpicked to take charge as the Vicar of the vast Shirva Parish, along with the responsibility of serving as the Dean of Shirva Varado, a quiet expectation began to take shape in the minds of many of his admirers: “One day, God may choose him for even greater responsibilities.”
Fr. Leslie himself never aspired to such heights—nor did he even dream of them. His focus remained firmly rooted in his priestly calling: to serve.
His tenure in Shirva Varado, in particular, offered him valuable exposure to administrative leadership and endeared him deeply to the clergy and faithful of the deanery. In these large and dynamic parishes, he encountered the real lives of people at close quarters—walking with them in their joys and struggles, and truly becoming one among them.
And now, within just four years, that quiet expectation has found fulfilment. Fr. Leslie has indeed been chosen to lead the young and growing Diocese of Udupi.
The path ahead is certainly not a bed of roses—it is a mission filled with challenges. The Diocese comprises 52 parishes spread across five deaneries: Kundapura, Kallianpur, Udupi, Shirva, and Karkala. Yet, with deep faith, he echoes the reassuring conviction: “Devacha Ghara Kain Unne Na”—there is no scarcity in God’s kingdom.
Those who know Fr. Leslie closely share this confidence. They see in him a shepherd in the making—one who leads by example, a deeply effective preacher, sincere, dedicated, and hardworking. His chosen episcopal theme, “Humble and Meek of Heart,” beautifully reflects the essence of his personality and mission.
At the same time, he is fully aware of the realities before him. A leader is only as strong as his team. Today, vocations are fewer—perhaps due to smaller families, worldly attractions, and changing aspirations. The Diocese has around 75 priests, nearly half of whom are above the age of 50.
Encouraging greater and more visible involvement of the laity—already initiated by his predecessor—will need to be continued with care and discernment. With a growing population of senior citizens in the Diocese, healthcare and social security programmes deserve priority attention.
Equally important is the future of the Church among the youth. Without the active presence of children and young people, the vibrancy of the Church cannot be sustained. Focused efforts in youth engagement, along with support for education and professional growth, will be essential in shaping a hopeful future.
History reminds us that God’s plans are not always as man expects. Time and again, He has chosen the humble and the seemingly weak, strengthening them for great missions. In Fr. Leslie, a youthful 64- years with a simple exterior, we find rare qualities—simplicity, courage, deep faith, rich pastoral experience of over 36 years, 5 early years as assistant priest, 6 years of higher education, about 12 years as Professor and equal number as Parish Priest and recent 4 years as Dean…and sound academic formation—all pointing to his ability to lead the flock with wisdom and unity.
Let us keep him in our prayers, that the Almighty may continue to guide, strengthen, and bless him abundantly in his new mission.
Prof. Archibald Furtado