The Archdiocese of Bombay welcomed its new shepherd in a ceremony on Tuesday, as the faithful gathered at the Holy Name Cathedral for the Thanksgiving and Welcoming Eucharist of Archbishop John Rodrigues.
The solemn liturgy, attended by Church leaders, was also broadcast globally, according to Catholic Connect, the official news site of the Catholic Church in India.
In his homily, Archbishop Rodrigues highlighted six key themes. He spoke of the Church as a mother that nourishes its children through Scripture and sacraments.
He emphasized the law of love as a replacement for rigid old laws. He described suffering as a path to grace, offering hope to those who endure hardships.
He underscored the role of the family as the domestic Church. He acknowledged human imperfection and the need for God’s grace.
Finally, he called for spiritual growth, urging the faithful to seek perfection with God’s guidance.
Concluding in Marathi, he addressed the local faithful, calling them to discipleship.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Archbishop John Rodrigues and concelebrated by Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Filipe Cardinal Neri Ferrão, and Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal.
Nearly 200 priests, along with religious sisters and lay faithful, filled the cathedral. The ceremony commenced with the reading of the Papal Bull appointing Archbishop John Rodrigues as Coadjutor Bishop of Bombay.
This was followed by Cardinal Gracias’ formal resignation, officially elevating Archbishop Rodrigues as the new shepherd of the archdiocese.
He took his place on the cathedra, symbolizing his leadership. He then blessed the congregation with holy water.
Marking the World Day of the Sick, Cardinal Neri led a blessing for the sick, followed by Archbishop Rodrigues extending his first official pastoral outreach by blessing the inmates of Mother Teresa’s Home.
This act set the tone for his leadership, centered on faith, service, and renewal, as the Archdiocese of Bombay embraced its new Archbishop.
