My dear people,
I am very happy to announce that Pope Francis has appointed Bishop John Rodrigues as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay.
Bishop John is no stranger to any of us in this Archdiocese. He was auxiliary bishop here for 10 years before being transferred to Poona where he was the Diocesan Bishop for a year and a half.
When auxiliary bishop he was appointed Rector of Mount Mary Basilica and earlier was Rector of the Goregaon Seminary, St. Pius X College and a professor of Dogmatic Theology.
All of us in this Archdiocese, Bishops, Priests, Religious and Lay Faithful warmly welcome Bishop John back home.
A Coadjutor bishop is an auxiliary bishop with the right of succession. According to present plans, Bishop John will come to Mumbai on January 25, 2025. He will reside at Archbishops House.
We assure him of our prayers.
Bishop John, my student in the seminary and a very bright student has worked closely with me and I know that the Archdiocese will benefit much from his presence. Warm welcome Bishop John. Heart congratulations and see you soon.
✠ Oswald Cardinal Gracias
Archbishop of Bombay
30 November, 2024
Given on the Feast of St. Andrew, the Apostle
At 4.30 pm, India time