His Eminence Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, has conveyed through a video message to the Archdiocese that His Holiness Pope Francis has appointed the Most Reverend John Rodrigues as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay.
The Most Reverend John Rodrigues is well-acquainted with the Archdiocese of Bombay. He was ordained as a Bishop at St. Michael's Church, Mahim, on 29th June 2013, and served as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Bombay for a decade before being transferred to Poona, where he served as the Diocesan Bishop for a year and a half.
During his tenure as an Auxiliary Bishop, the Most Reverend John Rodrigues was appointed as the Rector of Mount Mary Basilica and previously held positions as the Rector of the Goregaon Seminary, St. Pius X College, and a Professor of Dogmatic Theology.
According to Canon 403 §3, "A coadjutor bishop possesses the right of succession."
The Archdiocese of Bombay, including the Bishops, Priests, Religious, and Lay Faithful, extend a warm welcome to the Most Reverend John Rodrigues upon his return to the Archdiocese.
The Most Reverend John Rodrigues will take office on the 25th of January, 2025, and will reside at the Archbishop's House
The Archdiocese of Bombay welcomes Most Reverend Bishop John and assure him of our prayers.
Fr. Nigel Barrett
Press Office
Spokesperson Archdiocese of Bombay
Download the Message (PDF) below: