The new chief shepherd of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy in Australia, New Zealand, and Oceania, Bishop John Panamthottathil CMI, has expressed his first priority as meeting and listening to the faithful in order to formulate a pastoral plan for the region. 

Bishop John Panamthottathil intends to visit families and actively listen to them, recognizing this as a fundamental duty of a bishop. He considers his approach to be in line with Pope Francis' vision of a "synodal" Church, where clergy, religious, and lay people walk together as equals. He believes that synodality allows everyone to have an equal role, eliminating clericalism, and acknowledging the unique role of lay people in the Church. Listening to the lay faithful is therefore a crucial responsibility for him as a bishop.

Bishop's appointment to Australia is a homecoming for him, as he had prior connections with the clergy in the Archdiocese of Brisbane. During his time as provincial superior of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate, two Indian priests from the order served in Brisbane. After completing his term, Bishop Panamthottathil accepted an invitation to serve in the Brisbane Archdiocese, where he engaged in parish ministry from 2015 to 2020.

Upon returning to India, he developed a passion for environmental studies, inspired by Pope Francis' encyclical Laudato Si'. When the Carmelites considered selling a large coffee and tea plantation, Bishop Panamthottathil persuaded them to keep it to support local university students studying botany and zoology.

Bishop Panamthottathil was surprised to receive a call from Cardinal George Alencherry, informing him that he was being considered as the next bishop of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy in Australia. He had been focused on an environmental project when he learned of his selection. The process involved votes from the Syro-Malabar Synod of Bishops, consultation with the Dicastery for Eastern Churches, and approval from Pope Francis. While the appointment was unexpected and not part of his personal plans, Bishop Panamthottathil had promised to obey his superiors and believed it to be God's will. He reflected on the fact that our own desires and plans may not always align with God's plan for us.

Bishop Panamthottathil will lead the growing Syro-Malabar Catholic community in Australia and New Zealand. The community has experienced a 20% increase in numbers. Despite challenges, such as a shortage of priests and limited funds, the community remains vibrant due to strong spiritual involvement and emphasis on religious formation. Bishop Panamthottathil aims to maintain traditions and create a supportive environment for practicing the faith. He also emphasizes the unity of all Catholics and the Church's responsibility to promote environmental stewardship.