Episcopal Ordination of Monsignor John Carvalho: A historic day for Ajmer Diocese
- Neil Jay
- May 11
- 2 min read
Updated: May 12
On Sunday, 11 May 2025, Msgr. John Carvalho was solemnly ordained as the 7th Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Ajmer. The Episcopal Ordination took place at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Ajmer, witnessed by a large gathering of bishops, priests, religious, laity, and his family.
The ceremony was graced by His Excellency Most Rev. Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. The Papal Bull, issued by Pope Francis on 01 March 2025, officially appointing Bishop John Carvalho, was read in Latin by Fr. Stephen Fernandez and in Hindi by Fr. Cosmos Shekhawat.
The Episcopal Ordination of Monsignor John Carvalho was presided over by Archbishop Raphy Manjaly of the Archdiocese of Agra, the Principal Consecrator, and co-consecrated by Bishop Oswald Lewis, Apostolic Administrator of Ajmer Diocese, and Bishop Joseph Kallarackal, Bishop of Jaipur Diocese. The ordination ceremony was a profound expression of faith, symbolizing a new chapter in the history of the Ajmer Diocese.
After the religious ceremonies concluded, a felicitation program honored Bishop John Carvalho and other dignitaries. During his speech, Bishop Carvalho expressed his gratitude and humbly requested continued prayers to fulfill his pastoral responsibilities, saying:
“I need your constant prayers and support.”
The appointment of Bishop John Carvalho follows the resignation of Bishop Pius Thomas D’ Souza due to health reasons in June 2024. In the interim, Bishop Oswald Lewis, the Emeritus Bishop of Jaipur, served as the Apostolic Administrator of the Ajmer Diocese. Born in Udupi, Karnataka, Bishop John Carvalho is a distinguished leader who has served in various capacities within the Diocese of Ajmer since his ordination as a priest on 13 May 1996, including roles as Parish Priest, School Manager, Director of Social Service, Secretary for Education Commission, and Principal of notable schools. Most recently, he was the Principal of St. Paul’s Sr. Sec. School, Ajmer before his episcopal appointment.
Established in 1913, the Catholic Diocese of Ajmer has a long-standing legacy of selfless service in education, healthcare, and social work throughout North-West Rajasthan. As the head of the diocese, Bishop John Carvalho will continue to lead the clergy and the laity, fostering spiritual growth and social commitment.
The ordination of Bishop John Carvalho marks a significant moment for the diocese of Ajmer. His dedication and leadership promise a vibrant future for the diocese. Let us keep Bishop Carvalho in our prayers as he embarks on this noble journey of service.
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