Msgr Leslie Clifford D’Souza Ordained Bishop of Udupi Diocese

Msgr Leslie Clifford D’Souza Ordained Bishop of Udupi Diocese

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Apr 20, 2026: Msgr Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza was ordained as the Bishop of the Udupi Diocese during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur, on Monday.

The episcopal ordination was conferred by Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, who served as the principal consecrator. He was assisted by Peter Machado and Gerald Isaac Lobo as co-consecrators. Leopoldo Girelli was also present, along with over 30 bishops, 250 priests, nuns, and around 6,000 faithful.

Appointed by Pope Leo XIV on January 31, Bishop D’Souza becomes the second bishop of the Udupi Diocese, established in 2012.

The ceremony included the reading of the Papal Bull by diocesan chancellor Fr Steevan D’Souza, followed by the rites of episcopal ordination such as the laying of hands, prayer of consecration, anointing, and the presentation of the Gospel and ring.

In his homily, Peter Paul Saldanha highlighted the role of a bishop as a spiritual shepherd tasked with proclaiming the Gospel and guiding the faithful.

The celebration also featured the hymn to the Holy Spirit and concluded with the exchange of the sign of peace among clergy and representatives.