Historic and Grace-filled Beginning: Episcopal Ordination of Bishop Leslie Clifford Dsouza
It was a festive look in the joyful Monday morning, as the two km Cathedral Road from Mount Rosary Church, Santhekatte leading to the historical 350 years Milagres Church, Kallianpur decorated with numerous welcoming arcs, colourful bunting, flex hoardings, giant size cut outs etc truly was a great feeling to watch…
The vast Milagres Campus with half a dozen Milagrean Educational Institutions and thousands of faithful ready to become witnesses to the grand Consecration of New Bishop Rt Rev Dr Leslie C DSouza.
In a deeply spiritual and historic celebration, the Diocese of Udupi witnessed a moment of immense grace and joy as Msgr. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza was ordained and installed as the new Bishop of Udupi at the Milagres Cathedral Grounds, Kallianpur.
The solemn ceremony commenced with a grand and prayerful procession at 8:30 a.m., beginning from the Milagres Tricentenary Auditorium. The dignified procession included a large gathering of priests, nearly 36 bishops from across India, especially almost all Bishops of Karnataka region, His Eminence Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, and the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, Most Rev. Dr. Leopoldo Girelli.
The faithful stood in reverence as the sacred procession made its way towards the beautifully decorated altar, on spacious Milagres College Ground, specially erected for this holy and historic occasion.
The Eucharistic celebration began promptly at 9:00 a.m., with over 5,000 faithful representing all the 52 parishes of the Diocese of Udupi, along with religious, dignitaries, and well-wishers, participating in this grace-filled event.
Once Apostolic Administrator of the Udupi Diocese and the first Bishop Rt Rev Dr Gerald Issac Lobo extended a warm and cordial welcome to the gathering as the vast grounds resonated with devotion as the celebration unfolded in a spirit of unity and joy.
Following the proclamation of the Gospel, the ancient and solemn Rite of Episcopal Ordination began.
The Bishop-elect was formally presented to the assembly, and the Apostolic Mandate from the Holy Father was reverently read, affirming the appointment and calling of Msgr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza to the episcopacy, by the Chancellor of the Diocese Very Rev Fr Steevan DSouza.
The faithful expressed their assent and thanksgiving to God with a resounding “Somyak Dhinvasovyan” – Thanks be to God.”
Rt Rev Dr Peter Paul Saldanha the Bishop of Mangalore’ broke the word of God beautifully with insightful homily. He narrated the role of a Bishop to both as Father and Mother as in the end he will be a man to love one and all…He will also a proclamater andexplanater of gospel….
The Bishop-elect was then invited to make the prescribed promises, solemnly resolving to uphold the faith, shepherd the people entrusted to his care, and remain in communion with the universal Church under the guidance of the Successor of St. Peter the Apostle.
In a deeply moving moment, the Litany of the Saints was sung, invoking the intercession of the heavenly Church. The Bishop-elect lay prostrate before the altar in a profound gesture of humility and total surrender to God’s will, as the entire assembly joined in prayer.
The essential rite of ordination followed, wherein the Principal Consecrator, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, along with the co-consecrating bishops, especially Archbishop Rt Rev Dr Peter Machado and former Bishop Rt Rev Dr Gerald Issac Lobo laid hands upon the head of the Bishop-elect. This ancient gesture, rooted in apostolic tradition, was followed by the solemn Prayer of Ordination, invoking the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the newly chosen shepherd.
Subsequently, the Book of the Gospels was placed upon the head of the Bishop-elect, signifying his duty to faithfully proclaim the Word of God. He was then anointed with the Sacred Chrism on his head, marking him as one chosen and consecrated for sacred ministry.
The newly ordained Bishop was then vested with the episcopal insignia: the ring, symbolizing his fidelity to the Church; the mitre, representing his call to holiness; and the pastoral staff (crosier), signifying his role as shepherd of the faithful.
He was then led to the episcopal chair (cathedra), marking his formal installation as the Bishop of Udupi.
The rite concluded with the fraternal kiss of peace from the bishops, warmly welcoming him into the college of bishops. The Eucharistic celebration then continued with renewed solemnity and joy.
The ceremony opened and progressed with an electrifying yet prayerful ambiance created by the harmonious blend of a vibrant brass band, a melodious choir, and devoted altar servers, elevating the spiritual experience of all present.
The whole Holy litugical event devoutly presented by Rev Fr Wilson DSouza and team.
This sacred ordination marks the beginning of a new pastoral journey for Bishop Leslie Clifford D’Souza, who now assumes the responsibility of guiding the young and vibrant Diocese of Udupi. The celebration stood as a powerful testimony to the unity, faith, and rich spiritual heritage of the Coastal Karnataka, Udupi Diocese.
Grand Felicitation Programme Oganized to the Newly Ordained Bishop Leslie Clifford DSouza
Soon after the lengthy religious ceremonies,a solemn and joyous Public Felicitation Programme was held on 20th April 2026 to honour the newly ordained Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi, Rt. Rev. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza.
The event was marked by deep faith, gratitude, and celebration, bringing together clergy, religious, and the faithful in large number above 5000.
The programme commenced with a graceful prayer dance by Mrs. Vidya Martis and her team, setting a prayerful tone for the gathering. The dignitaries were then ceremoniously escorted to the dais, symbolizing unity and reverence.
Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Gonsalves warmly welcomed the august gathering, highlighting the historic significance of the occasion for the young Diocese of Udupi. In his address, he expressed confidence that the new Bishop would shepherd the faithful with wisdom, humility, and pastoral zeal.
A moment of honour followed with the felicitation of the Apostolic Nuncio, who was honoured with the draping of a traditional shawl. He was profusely thanked for his dedicated five-year tenure and diplomatic service in India, and the gathering wished him God’s blessings and success as he proceeds to his new mission in Croatia.
In his message, he conveyed the blessings and greetings of the Holy Father, emphasizing that a Bishop is called not to be served, but to serve, and encouraged Bishop Leslie to be a compassionate shepherd, rooted in prayer and close to his people.
His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao was also honoured on this occasion with a traditional shawl, memento, and bouquet as a mark of love and respect. In his inspiring message, the Cardinal reflected on the responsibility entrusted to a Bishop as a successor of the Apostles. He noted that Bishop Leslie’s rich academic background, pastoral experience, and simplicity of life would guide the Diocese towards spiritual growth and unity.
The Diocese of Udupi then formally felicitated Bishop Leslie Clifford D’Souza. In his heartfelt address, the Bishop expressed profound gratitude to God, his family, his mentors, and the faithful. He humbly acknowledged the challenges ahead but affirmed his trust in divine providence. “I come not with my strength,” he said, “but with faith in the Lord who calls and sustains. Together, let us build a Church rooted in love, service, and truth.”
A touching moment followed as family representatives extended their felicitation, accompanied by a melodious choir presentation, reflecting joy and pride.
The gathering also honoured Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Machado. In his address, Bishop Machado spoke highly of the retiring Bishop Emeritus, Rt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, appreciating his exemplary service and immense contribution both in the Diocese of Shimoga and in nurturing the Infant Diocese of Udupi for over 13 years and 6 months. He described Bishop Gerald Lobo as a visionary shepherd whose dedication laid a strong foundation for the growth of the Diocese.
A deeply emotional segment of the programme was the expression of gratitude to the retiring Bishop Emeritus, Rt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo.
Speakers recalled his tireless service, visionary leadership, and fatherly care since the inception of the Diocese. Cardinal Ferrao, Bishop Machado, and Bishop Leslie together felicitated Bishop Gerald Lobo, marking a moment filled with reverence and affection.
In his address, Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo reflected with humility on his journey, thanking the clergy, religious, and laity for their unwavering support. He urged all to extend wholehearted cooperation to the new Bishop, stating, “The Diocese is in safe and capable hands. Continue to walk together in faith and unity.”
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of shawls and mementos to the all attending Bishop’s donors and dignitaries, followed by a sincere vote of thanks proposed by Rev. Dr. Roshan D’Souza, who acknowledged the efforts of all who contributed to the success of the event.
The programme ended with grace before meals and announcement of lunch arrangements, leaving behind a deep sense of gratitude and renewed hope for the future of the Diocese of Udupi.
Prof. Archibald Furtado
Pics by Alphonse Mendonsa & Julian D’Mello
Bellevision Media Network