Jalandhar: A moment of spiritual significance and ecclesial joy unfolded in Punjab as Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel was solemnly ordained and installed as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Jalandhar. The sacred celebration took place at the Holy Trinity College Campus in Jalandhar, drawing together a vast assembly of bishops, priests, religious, and laity from across the country to witness this historic transition of leadership.
The Episcopal ordination was presided over by His Grace Dr. Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, Metropolitan Archbishop of Delhi and Secretary General of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI), who served as the principal consecrating prelate. He was joined by His Excellency Dr. Agnelo Rufino Gracias, Apostolic Administrator of Jalandhar, and His Excellency Dr. Sebastian Vadakel, Bishop of Ujjain, as co-ordaining bishops.
Representing the Holy See at the occasion was Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, whose presence added solemn dignity to the celebration. In his message, the Nuncio conveyed the blessings and appreciation of Pope Leo XIV, congratulating the newly ordained Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel on his appointment and extending heartfelt thanks to Bishop Agnelo Gracias for his selfless and steady leadership of the diocese during the lengthy interim period.
A deeply moving homily was delivered by Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas of Simla-Chandigarh, who reflected on the sacred responsibilities of the episcopate and the call to be a shepherd after God’s own heart. He emphasized the values of humility, unity, and fidelity in pastoral ministry, offering both inspiration and challenge to the new bishop.
Among the most touching moments of the liturgy was when Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel’s 90-year-old mother came forward to offer the gifts during the offertory procession. With hands worn by decades of love and sacrifice, she tenderly held the sacred offerings, her face glistening with tears of joy. The sight moved the congregation deeply, serving as a heartfelt symbol of the family’s unwavering support throughout the bishop’s spiritual journey. Many of his siblings, friends, and well-wishers from his hometown were visibly emotional during the moment, bearing witness to the fruits of a life rooted in faith and nurtured by family.
Following the Eucharistic celebration and installation rites, a felicitation ceremony honored the new bishop and those who served the diocese in its interim phase. Archbishop Girelli paid a warm tribute to Bishop Agnelo Gracias, acknowledging his nearly seven years of faithful service as Apostolic Administrator. Fr. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), also offered words of support and encouragement to Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel.
In his address of gratitude, Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel expressed heartfelt appreciation to the clergy, religious, and lay faithful for their presence and prayers. He gave special thanks to Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President of the CBCI, for his steadfast support throughout the process. The new bishop pledged to walk in humble service with the people of the Diocese of Jalandhar, embracing his role as shepherd with deep faith, openness to the Holy Spirit, and commitment to the mission of the Church.
With his ordination and installation complete, Bishop Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel now begins a new chapter in his ministry, carrying forward the spiritual leadership of the Diocese of Jalandhar with renewed hope, dedication, and pastoral zeal. His episcopal motto and life journey reflect a bishop grounded in prayer, shaped by community, and inspired to lead with the heart of Christ.