Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza Ordained as Bishop of Udupi Diocese
Udupi: The Episcopal ordination and consecration of Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza as the Second Bishop of the Udupi Diocese was solemnly celebrated on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Milagres College Grounds in Udupi.
The principal consecrator for the episcopal ordination was Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, the Archbishop of Goa and Daman, and president of both the FABC (Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences) and the CCBI (Conference of Catholic Bishops of India). He was joined by the Archbishop of Bangalore, Dr. Peter Machado, and the Apostolic Administrator of Udupi Diocese, Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, as co-consecrators. The Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, also attended, alongside over 30 bishops, 250 priests, an equal number of nuns, and approximately 6,000 faithful from across India.
Having been appointed by Pope Leo XIV on January 31, 2026, Bishop Msgr. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza now assumes the mantle as the second shepherd of the Diocese of Udupi. This event marks a significant milestone in the diocese’s pastoral journey, which began with its establishment in 2012.
The rite of ordination included the formal proclamation of the Papal Bull, officially appointing Bishop Msgr. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza. This was followed by the solemn liturgical rites of episcopal consecration. The celebration was characterized by profound prayer and joyful participation from the assembled faithful.
Fr. Steevan D’Souza, the Chancellor of the Udupi Diocese, read the official letter from the Holy See, confirming the appointment of Dr. D’Souza as the Bishop of the Diocese of Udupi. Fr. Reginald Pinto of Sampada and Fr. Steevan D’Souza, Chancellor, were present during the ceremony.
Dr. Peter Paul Saldhanha, the Bishop of the Diocese of Mangaluru, delivered a homily emphasizing the importance of a Bishop’s role. “Blessings of the father are the most precious ones. In many families today, there is no presence of a father. The family of God, as the representative of our almighty Father, we see the bishops. Today, in the form of Msgr Leslie Lord, he has chosen his representative in the diocese of Udupi. A Bishop has to sow the seeds of the word of God in the faithful and must love all. The Lord has chosen you to shepherd his chosen people. Priority is the proclamation and explanation of the gospel.”
The ceremony included the promise of election, the invocation of the Holy Spirit, the laying of hands on the elect by the bishops, the prayer of ordination, the anointing of the head, the presentation of the Holy Gospel, the ring ceremony, and other significant religious proceedings. The sign of peace was also exchanged by the chief consecrator, assistant consecrators, other bishops, the committee of advisors, and lay representatives.
Following the religious ceremonies, a Public Felicitation Programme was held to honor the newly ordained Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Leslie Clifford D’Souza. The event, attended by over 5,000 people, was filled with deep faith, gratitude, and celebration, bringing together clergy, religious, and the faithful.
The programme began with a prayer dance by Mrs. Vidya Martis and her team. Rev. Fr. Ferdinand Gonsalves welcomed the gathering, underscoring the historic significance of the occasion for the Diocese of Udupi, and expressing confidence in the new Bishop’s leadership.
The Apostolic Nuncio was felicitated and thanked for his dedicated service in India. In his message, he conveyed the blessings of the Holy Father, emphasizing the importance of service and compassion for a Bishop. His Eminence Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrao was also honored. He reflected on the responsibilities of a Bishop and expressed that Bishop Leslie’s background and simplicity would guide the Diocese.
Bishop Leslie Clifford D’Souza expressed his gratitude and acknowledged the challenges ahead, affirming his faith in divine providence. “I come not with my strength,” he stated, “but with faith in the Lord who calls and sustains. Together, let us build a Church rooted in love, service, and truth.” Family representatives extended their felicitation, accompanied by a choir presentation.
The gathering also honored Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, who praised the retiring Bishop Emeritus, Rt. Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo, for his service and contribution to the Diocese of Shimoga and the Diocese of Udupi.
Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo reflected on his journey and urged support for 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, followed by a vote of thanks by Rev. Dr. Roshan D’Souza. Fr. Denis D’Sa, PRO of Udupi Diocese, served as the compere for the programme. The event ended with a prayer before meals and the announcement of lunch arrangements.
The event concluded with grace before meals and announcements for lunch, leaving behind a deep sense of gratitude and renewed hope for the future of the Diocese of Udupi.