Jalandhar Gets New Bishop: Punjabi Priest Elevated in Vatican Ceremony

Monsignor Jose Sebastian Thekkumcherikunnel has been ordained as the new Bishop of Jalandhar. The ceremony, held on July 12, 2025, was a significant event, drawing a large congregation of religious leaders.

The ordination involved traditional prayers and the bestowal of symbolic religious items. This marks a key moment for the Jalandhar diocese.

Pope Leo XIV made the appointment. The choice of Monsignor Thekkumcherikunnel, a fluent Punjabi speaker and the diocese’s former Financial Administrator, is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the Church’s connection with the local community.

This appointment holds significance for the Christian community in Punjab, especially given the Bishop’s understanding of the local language and culture. His experience managing the diocese’s finances will also be crucial in his new role.

Karanveer Sharma

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