Fort Kochi: The Cochin Diocese is preparing for a historic and joyous moment as Bishop elect Antony Kattiparambil will be ordained and installed as the new Bishop on December 7 at 3 pm at the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica in Fort Kochi.

A 501-member committee is being formed to oversee the arrangements for the ceremony. The preparatory meetings will be held at the Bishop’s House over the next two days, chaired by the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese, Bishop Dr James Anaparambil.

The appointment of Fr Antony Kattiparambil as Bishop of the Cochin Diocese was officially announced on October 25. The 55-year-old priest, who belongs to the Mundamveli St Louis Parish, has been serving as the Judicial Vicar of the Diocese. He was ordained a priest on August 15, 1998, and is known for his dedication, pastoral experience, and strong leadership within the Latin Catholic community.

This appointment brings to an end the vacancy that existed in the Diocese since the resignation of Bishop Joseph Kariyil last year. The Cochin Diocese, one of the oldest in India, is home to around 1,82,000 Catholic faithful, with 134 diocesan priests, 116 religious priests, and 545 nuns serving in various parishes and institutions.

The upcoming episcopal ordination at the historic Santa Cruz Basilica is expected to be attended by bishops, priests, religious, and lay faithful from across Kerala and beyond. For the local Catholic community, the event marks a moment of renewal and unity as they welcome their new spiritual shepherd to lead them in faith and service.