Diocese of Kurnool Celebrates Episcopal Anniversary, Priestly Ordinations, and New Educational Initiative

Kurnool, April 25, 2026: The Diocese of Kurnool witnessed a day of profound joy and thanksgiving on April 24, as it marked three significant milestones: the second episcopal anniversary of Bishop Johannes Gorantla, the ordination of four new priests, and the foundation stone laying for St. Mary's English Medium School.

The celebrations commenced at the Bishop's House, where clergy, religious, and diocesan staff gathered for a felicitation programme organised by Vicar General Fr. David Arulappan. Bishop Johannes was warmly honoured with a shawl, floral tributes, and a cultural presentation. Responding to the greetings, the Bishop expressed gratitude for the support of the diocesan community and reaffirmed his dedication to the spiritual and pastoral growth of the local Church.

The highlight of the day was the solemn ordination Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, attended by a large congregation of clergy, religious, families, and faithful. Calling it a "joyful moment for the Church," Bishop Johannes invited the community to pray fervently for the ordinands and reminded them that the Church needs priests who are faithful above all else.

In his homily, the Bishop reflected deeply on the vocation of priesthood. He emphasised that priests are chosen by God from among His people and are called to walk closely with them, sharing their hopes, struggles, and aspirations. Priesthood, he noted, is fundamentally a ministry of service rather than authority. He urged the candidates to remain rooted in prayer, humility, and steadfast commitment, warning against distractions that could weaken their vocation.

The four candidates—Kommera Pavan, Masipogu Teja, Arogyaraj Naveen, and Salugu Balaswamy—publicly professed their readiness and obedience before being ordained through the laying on of hands and the anointing with Sacred Chrism. The cathedral resounded with applause as the newly ordained priests were welcomed into the presbyterate and joined the Bishop in concelebrating the Eucharist.

Nearly 200 priests, along with religious, family members, and lay faithful, participated in the sacred celebration. The new priests expressed heartfelt gratitude to God, Bishop Johannes, their families, and all who had accompanied them on their journey to the altar.

Later in the evening, Bishop Johannes blessed and laid the foundation stone for St. Mary's English Medium School on Nandikotkur Road. Organised under the leadership of Fr. P. Chinnapu Reddy, the new institution aims to provide quality education while advancing the Church's mission of shaping young minds through faith and learning.

Reflecting on his two years of episcopal ministry, Bishop Johannes reiterated his commitment to building a synodal Church marked by shared responsibility, effective pastoral planning, and financial transparency.

The day concluded as a powerful testament to the vitality of the Diocese of Kurnool—celebrating new vocations, renewed leadership, and a forward-looking vision for evangelisation and education.

Diocese of Kurnool Celebrates Episcopal Anniversary, Priestly Ordinations, and New Educational Initiative

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