Bangalore (Sep 8) : Over 3000 Catholics, including at least 300 priests and religious gathered at Christ school auditorium, Bannergatta road September 8th evening for the consecration of Mandya Diocese' (Syro-Malabar) new bishop The Rev Sebastian Adayanthrathu's installation. He was installed by Cardinal The Most Rev George Alenchery in the presence of Bp. Antony kariyil cmi (out-going Bishop of Mandya) Archbishop George Njaralangattu and Bp.sebastian Puthenveetil.
Metropolitan Archbishop of Bangalore Archdiocese Most Rev Dr Peter Machado and Vicar General Monsignor S. Jayanathan were present to felicitate the new Bishop of Mandya and bid a fond farewell to Bishop Antony Kariyil who is now elevated as Archbishop and Vicar of the Eranakulum-Angamaly Episcopate.
In his message to the gathering, Archbishop Peter Machado expressed great joy in that Bishop Sebastian was his classmate in yesteryears and described him as a "simple and jovial companion filled with missionary zeal". The prelate noted that in the seminary days itself "He was being made for great things and I am indeed happy God has honoured his dedication to his priestly ministry".
Archbishop Peter drew significance and privilege of the day Bishop Sebastian assumed office, the feast and birthday of Mother Mary.
The Prelate had blessed and flagged-off the Sacred car procession at the famous St. Mary's Basilica in the presence of the Chief Minister of Karnataka, Mr. B S Yediurppa and former Congress Minister Mr KJ George and other dignitaries and headed to the venue of installation.
In his farewell message, Archbishop Antony Kariyil acknowledged the support of many during his tenure and specifically acknowledged the support he received from Archbishop Bernard Moras (emeritus) and Archbishop Peter Machado saying "We enjoyed a very cordial relationship with both Archbishops and were able to sort out many common difficulties". He drew reference to the cemetery problems and burial related issues saying the discussions were fruitful. The gathering burst in kind applause.
Later during the felicitation, Monsignor spoke in Kannada, English and surprised the audience with his eloquent Malayalam in perfect diction, expressing the support the Roman Catholic Church of Bangalore Archdiocese to Catholics of all rites. The gathering shot a lengthy applause in clapping spontaneously.
Archbishop Peter said the he was exploring all possibilities to amicable and mutual solutions to sort out difficulties as it were. He thanked Archbishop Antony Kariyil for his co-operation and also said "You are always welcome here".
Archbishop Peter greeted all the prelates present and presented a plaque on behalf the bishops of Karnataka
The program concluded with dinner for all with a simultaneously big screen presentation of felicitations from various quarters.
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Report: Fr. Adolf Washington
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