Archdiocese of Calcutta Appoints Angela Perris as India’s First Laywoman Diocesan Youth Director

Kolkata, December 6, 2025 — Archdiocese of Calcutta has appointed Ms Angela Perris as its new diocesan Youth Director, marking the first time in India that a lay person — and specifically a laywoman — has been entrusted with leading diocesan youth ministry, following a synodal process of consultation and discernment.

Fr. Sandip Michael Biswas, who served in the role for nine years, explained that the appointment emerged from a deliberate commitment to shared responsibility and synodality. He said the process was shaped by openness to the Holy Spirit and inspired by Pope Francis’ call for a Church that listens, walks together and discerns collaboratively. He also highlighted the involvement of Archbishop Elias Frank of Calcutta, whose active participation and willingness to engage widely in the consultations were key to the final decision.

Ms Perris, well known for her longstanding involvement with the Indian Catholic Youth Movement (ICYM), brings pastoral insight, organisational experience and a strong desire to accompany young people in their formation and leadership. In her new role, she will animate ICYM Calcutta, coordinate formation programmes, strengthen parish and deanery youth councils, and help create spaces where young people can grow as leaders and witnesses of hope.

Church leaders in the Archdiocese describe the appointment as a significant step for the Church in India, affirming the vital contribution of lay women and men to evangelisation and ministry. The decision is seen as a model for a more participatory Church in which clergy and laity share responsibility for mission.

The Archdiocese expressed gratitude for Fr Biswas’ years of service and looks ahead with confidence as Ms Perris begins her ministry, guiding the youth of Calcutta into a renewed chapter of faith, service and collaborative leadership.

By Fr. Sandip Michael Biswas