Ujjain: The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church marked a historic milestone with the consecration of Mar Sebastian Vadakel as the first Metropolitan Archbishop of the newly elevated Ujjain Archdiocese. The solemn liturgy, filled with deep ecclesial symbolism, drew bishops, priests, religious, and faithful from across India, underlining the growing presence of the Syro-Malabar Church in central India.
The solemn ceremonies commenced at 9:30 a.m. with the clergy proceeding in procession from the old church to the altar. During the liturgy, the decree establishing the archdiocese was proclaimed in English by Rev. Dr. Abraham Kavilpuraidomathil, Curia Chancellor, while the decree of the metropolitan’s appointment was read in Hindi by Rev. Dr. John Kondooparambil, Diocesan Chancellor. The sacred rites and prayers installing Mar Sebastian Vadakel as Archbishop were presided over by the Major Archbishop. Joining as principal co-celebrants in the episcopal ordination were Mar Thomas Tharayil, Archbishop of Changanassery, and Mar Joseph Kallarangatt, Bishop of Pala. The event was not merely a ceremonial installation but a visible affirmation of the Church’s expansion beyond its traditional base in Kerala into the heartland of India.
The Diocese of Ujjain, established in 1968, has been a significant missionary hub, serving a vast region with a relatively small Catholic population. With decades of pastoral outreach, educational initiatives, and social service, the mission steadily matured, culminating in its elevation to an archdiocese earlier this year.
By appointing Mar Sebastian Vadakel as its first metropolitan, the Church signals its commitment to strengthening pastoral care, deepening missionary activity, and providing a stronger organizational structure to nurture the Catholic community in Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
Mar Sebastian Vadakel, known for his missionary zeal and pastoral leadership, has long been associated with building communities in challenging territories. His elevation is viewed as both recognition of his service and a call to lead the archdiocese into a new era. His episcopal motto, emphasizing faith and service, resonates deeply with the missionary identity of Ujjain.
The consecration reflects the continued vitality of the Syro-Malabar Church, one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches in communion with Rome. With its headquarters in Kerala, the Church has increasingly spread across India and the global diaspora. The establishment of Ujjain as a metropolitan see highlights its efforts to decentralize pastoral care and recognize the growing contributions of mission territories.
As the first Metropolitan Archbishop of Ujjain, Mar Sebastian Vadakel will oversee not only the archdiocese but also guide its suffragan dioceses, ensuring coordination and unity in pastoral initiatives. Faithful across the region see his consecration as a new beginning, blending tradition with missionary fervor in central India.
The moment marks a chapter of hope and renewal a reminder that the roots of faith, once planted in mission soil, can grow into strong ecclesial structures, bearing witness to the Gospel in new cultural landscapes.
Archbishop Dr. A. Durairaj of Bhopal, together with Archbishops Mar Kuriakose Bharanikulangara, Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal, Mar Prince Antony Panengadan, and 24 bishops from Madhya Pradesh and other regions, along with several major superiors, graced the occasion with their presence. Representing the Vatican office, Fr. Alberto Napolitano conveyed the message of the Apostolic Nuncio. After the liturgical services, the clergy of the Archdiocese of Ujjain pledged their fidelity to the newly installed Archbishop. Warm congratulations were extended by bishops and priests alike. At the felicitation gathering that followed, Union Minister George Kurien delivered an address, while MPs, MLAs, and distinguished personalities from religious, social, and political spheres also joined in offering their good wishes.