The Episcopal Ordination of Father Paul Gomes as the first Bishop of the newly established Diocese of Joypurhat was solemnly celebrated at Beneedwar Parish, within the territory of the new diocese on June 5.
Bishop Paul Gomes has become the first bishop of the newly created diocese in the northern region of the country, an area largely inhabited by Indigenous communities. A significant number of Indigenous people in the region are still unfamiliar with the Christian faith.
The episcopal ordination ceremony was attended by Cardinal Patrick D’Rozario, Apostolic Nuncio to Bangladesh, Archbishop Kevin S. Randall, Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze of the Archdiocese of Dhaka and Bishop Gervas Rozario of the Diocese of Rajshahi.
Also present were bishops from other dioceses of Bangladesh, Member of Parliament Anna Minj, priests, religious sisters, brothers, and a large number of faithful.
The main consecrator was Bishop Gervas Rozario, while Archbishop Kevin S. Randall and Archbishop Bejoy N. D’Cruze, OMI, served as co-consecrators.
During the homily, Bishop Emmanuel Kanon Rozario said, “Today’s celebration manifests God’s love and care for His people. We thank Pope Leo XIV for gifting us a new diocese and appointing Paul Gomes as its shepherd. The episcopal ministry is not something one attains alone; rather, it is a pastoral responsibility lovingly entrusted by God.”
Congratulating the newly ordained bishop, Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Kevin S. Randall stated, “Bishop Paul is a blessing for the Church in Bangladesh. He will guide the faithful of the Diocese of Joypurhat toward the Kingdom of God. I also believe that he will promote Synodality through interreligious dialogue with people of all faiths.”
Expressing his joy, Bishop Gervas Rozario of Rajshahi said, “Bishop Paul Gomes has always been a capable and dedicated priest. God has chosen this worthy priest to become a bishop. Today, not only the Diocese of Joypurhat but the entire Church in Bangladesh rejoices.”
He added, “Our prayers for Bishop Paul Gomes are essential. We firmly believe that he will faithfully lead the Diocese of Joypurhat and its people along God’s path.”
In his remarks, the newly ordained Bishop Paul Gomes said, “First of all, I thank God and Pope Leo XIV for entrusting me with this great responsibility. I also express my gratitude to the Bishop of Rajshahi, the other bishops, and all the people who have supported me.”
He further said, “Although I am unworthy, God has chosen me for His work. I greatly need your support and prayers in my episcopal ministry. Through your prayers and cooperation, I hope the Diocese of Joypurhat will continue to grow and flourish in every aspect.”
It was also announced that Mary Our Help Church Parish in Khonjonpur, the district town of Joypurhat, will serve as the Cathedral of the newly established Diocese of Joypurhat.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a reception was held in honor of Bishop Paul Gomes. Cultural performances featuring songs and dances were presented as expressions of congratulations and goodwill.
It may be recalled that on March 25, 2026, Pope Leo XIV officially announced the establishment of the Diocese of Joypurhat and appointed Paul Gomes as its first bishop.
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