Installation of New Officials of the CCBI

Installation of the New Secretary for the CCBI Bible Commission and Associate Director for Communio - Farewell to Rev. Dr Yesu Karunanidhi and Rev. Fr Baptist Pais.

Bangalore, 19 June 2025: The farewell of the outgoing Secretaries of the Bible Commission and Ecumenism Commission and the installation of new Secretary for Bible Commission, including the new Associate Director for Communio (Training and Programmes) was held at the CCBI Centre, Bangalore. This event was marked by gratitude, prayer, and a renewed commitment to the Church’s mission.

Most Rev. Antonysamy Peter Abir, Bishop of Sultanpet and Chairman of the CCBI Bible Commission, presided over the installation ceremony of Rev. Dr. Patrick Mathias SDB, and Rev. Sr. Margarita Dias SCB, held prayerfully in the chapel of the CCBI Centre, Bangalore. It was a solemn and joyful moment, symbolising a new chapter in the mission of proclaiming the Word of God and training missionary disciples for the growth of the Church in India.

The farewell meeting began with a prayer led by Sr. Margarita Dias, SCB, invoking God’s blessings on both the outgoing and incoming leaders, and lifting up the mission of the CCBI.

The programme continued with a warm welcome by Fr. Christopher Vimalraj, the Associate Deputy Secretary General, CCBI. In attendance were Bishop Peter Abir, Fr. Stephen Alathara Deputy Secretary General of the CCBI, Bible Commission Council members and other Secretaries, well-wishers of CCBI and the staff present at CCBI Centre, Bangalore.

In his benedictory address, Bishop Peter Abir reflected on the marvellous contributions of Rev. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi and also encouraged Fr. Patrick Mathias to build upon the strong foundation laid during his predecessor’s tenure, with faith and courage.

A heartfelt Gratitude Address was given by Fr. Stephen Alathara, who expressed deep appreciation for the dedicated service of Rev. Dr. Yesu Karunanidhi and Rev. Fr. Baptist Pais, SVD. He acknowledged their simplicity, faithfulness, and their contributions to biblical and ecumenical ministry. He also shared personal reflections on their leadership values and the impact they have had on the Church in India.

During the Words of Reply, both Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi and Fr. Baptist Pais expressed their sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve the CCBI. They also thanked Fr. Stephen Alathara for his passionate leadership, encouragement, and support, recognising his role in uplifting the mission and vision of the CCBI at a national and international level.

The event included a moment of honouring the outgoing and incoming Secretaries, acknowledging their roles and welcoming the new leadership with prayers and good wishes.

The programme concluded with the vote of thanks delivered by Fr. Vignan Das, Associate Director of Communio (Administration & Projects) followed by the blessing from Bishop Peter Abir and a sumptuous lunch, which provided time for joyful fellowship.

The installation of Rev. Dr. Patrick Mathias and Sr. Margarita Dias is more than a formal transition it is a renewed commitment to the Bible apostolate and missionary training. Under their leadership, the CCBI Bible Commission and Communio will continue to serve the Church with zeal, dedication and faith.

By Catholic Connect Reporter