Bengaluru: The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has announced a new set of office bearers following elections held during its 37th General Body Meeting in Bengaluru. The newly elected leadership will serve a two-year term, guiding the Church’s national pastoral and administrative priorities.
Cardinal Poola Anthony, Archbishop of Hyderabad, has been chosen as the new President of the CBCI. His election marks a significant moment for the Conference as it continues to address pastoral challenges and social concerns facing the Church and the wider society in India.
Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos, the Archbishop of Tiruvalla, has been elected Vice President–First, while Archbishop Mathew Moolakkatt, Archbishop of Kottayam, has taken charge as Vice President–Second. Continuing in his role, Archbishop Anil Couto has been re-elected as Secretary General, ensuring continuity in the Conference’s day-to-day coordination and national engagements.
The newly elected leadership reflects the plural and inclusive character of the Catholic Church in India. Cardinal Poola Anthony and Archbishop Anil Couto represent the Latin Rite, Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos comes from the Syro-Malankara Rite, and Archbishop Mathew Moolakkatt belongs to the Syro-Malabar Rite together symbolising unity amid liturgical and cultural diversity.
The new team succeeds the outgoing office bearers led by Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath as President, Archbishop George Anthonysamy as Vice President–First, and Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas as Vice President–Second. The CBCI expressed gratitude for their service and leadership during the previous term.
With the new office bearers in place, the CBCI is expected to continue its focus on faith formation, social justice, interreligious harmony, and the Church’s engagement with contemporary national issues.