A Shepherd Called in Faith: Bishop-elect Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro Responds to God’s Will

Goa, February 15, 2026: Responding with humility, faith and deep trust in God’s will, Bishop-elect Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro shared his first reflections following the official announcement of his appointment as Bishop of the Diocese of Sindhudurg.

Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão announced the appointment at 4.30 pm on February 14, 2026, at the Archbishop’s House in Goa, in the presence of bishops, priests, religious and lay faithful.

Addressing the gathering, Bishop-elect Agnelo recalled the moment he received the news from the Apostolic Nuncio as one filled with deep emotion. He spoke openly of feeling “truly humbled, very nervous, and sincerely unworthy”. For nearly two days, he said, he prayed intensely and at times even asked the Lord to take the responsibility away. Ultimately, he surrendered himself fully to God, echoing Christ’s prayer: “Lord, let your will be done.”

He affirmed that his call to the episcopacy was not based on personal merit, but entirely on God’s goodness, mercy and providence. Trusting in God’s unconditional love and unfailing grace, he accepted the appointment in faith.

Reflecting on Jesus’ dialogue with Peter — “Do you love me?” — Bishop-elect Agnelo said the same question resonates in his own heart. With honesty, he responded, “Lord, you know everything; you know that with my frailties I am always trying to love you. Lord, please help me.”

He expressed sincere gratitude to Pope Leo XIV for entrusting him with this pastoral responsibility. While acknowledging his own sense of unworthiness, he accepted the appointment in humble obedience, relying on God’s grace and the Holy Father’s guidance as he prepares to shepherd the Diocese of Sindhudurg.

Bishop-elect Agnelo also thanked Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, for his patient accompaniment, prayerful support and fatherly care throughout the period of discernment.

Turning to his own Archbishop, Cardinal Ferrão, he expressed heartfelt appreciation for years of care, guidance and encouragement during his 26 years of priestly ministry. He gratefully recalled the Cardinal’s steadfast pastoral concern, especially during challenging times.

He paid tribute to Bishop Alwyn Barreto, remembering him as a joyful and holy shepherd whose selfless service shaped the young diocese from its beginnings. He thanked him for his continued presence, wisdom and support.

Special gratitude was extended to Simao Fernandes, a former colleague at Rachol Seminary and close friend, for his fraternal encouragement, and to Andrew D’Mello, Apostolic Administrator of Sindhudurg, for his faithful, compassionate and efficient leadership during the interim period.

Acknowledging his priest-brother Fr. Richard as a constant pillar of strength, Bishop-elect Agnelo also addressed the priests of Sindhudurg and beyond, thanking them for their prayers and support. While affirming his role as bishop, he stressed that he remains a fellow pilgrim with them on the Church’s synodal journey, walking together in trust, love and service.

In a deeply personal message to the faithful of Sindhudurg, he embraced them as family, affirming that without the people of God, the ministry of priest and bishop holds little meaning. He humbly asked them to pray for him not only as their bishop, but as a member of their family, and invited all to collaborate in building a truly synodal Church.

Assuring the faithful of his closeness, Bishop-elect Agnelo pledged to walk with them through their joys, challenges and sorrows. Concluding his address, he thanked all who organised the occasion and assured everyone of his prayers, invoking God’s blessing upon all.

A Shepherd Called in Faith: Bishop-elect Fr. Agnelo Pinheiro Responds to God’s Will

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