The Christian Catholic community in Mangalore is waiting for a new Bishop even a year after the retirement of the former bishop of Mangalore diocese. The selection has been delayed for unknown reasons. The current Bishop His Excellency Aloysius Paul D’Souza completed his tenure after completing 75 years. However, he continues to hold the position as there is no new appointment. The ultimate decision in appointing a bishop rests with the Pope, and he is free to select anyone. However, sources close to the diocese reveal that due to the delay, too many aspirants have emerged.
As reported by The Times of India, Rev Fr William Menezes, public relations officer, Mangalore diocese, remarked that “There is no timeframe for the appointment of a bishop and the ultimate decision lies with the Pope. The procedure takes place according to Canon law (Ordinances and regulations made by ecclesiastical authority). Bishop Aloysius is one of the longest serving in the diocese. Nobody knows when there will be a new bishop.”
The current aspirants for the post include some young clergies too. While some work in the diocese, others work in various diocese missions in other countries.
Source: The Times of India
