Mangalore Diocese Mourns the Passing of Centenarian Priest Msgr. Aloysius D’Souza

MANGALORE, August 7, 2025 — The Diocese of Mangalore bids a heartfelt farewell to one of its most esteemed priests, Msgr. Aloysius D’Souza, who passed away peacefully on the morning of 7 August 2025 at St. Zuze Vaz Home, Jeppu, at the blessed age of 100 years and 7 months.

The Funeral Mass and Burial Rites will be held on Friday, 8 August 2025, at 4:00 p.m. at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia, Mangaluru.

Msgr. Aloysius D’Souza served the Church for 72 years, having been ordained on 24 August 1953. He recently marked his centenary on 29 January 2025, becoming the first priest in the Diocese of Mangalore to reach the age of 100. The milestone was celebrated with a grand Thanksgiving Eucharist at St. Joseph Seminary, Jeppu, where he continued his ministry for over two decades even after retirement.

A Life of Faith, Simplicity, and Service

Born in Puttur on 29 January 1925 to Martin and Piedade D’Souza, Msgr. Aloysius lived a life marked by simplicity, discipline, prayer, and unwavering dedication to his priestly vocation. Known for his intellectual depth and pastoral zeal, he served in several key roles throughout his ministry:

• Assistant Parish Priest at Bejai (1954–1963)
• Missionary Parish Priest in Arva (1963–1964)
• Secretary to the Bishop and Curia (1964–1965)
• Director & Manager of Codialbail Press (1965–1973)
• Parish Priest & Vicar Forane at Pezar and Kinnigoli (1973–1987)
• Vicar General of the Diocese (1987–1995)
• Director of St. Antony’s Charitable Institutions, Jeppu (1995–2000)
• Spiritual Director at St. Joseph Seminary, Jeppu (2000–2022)

He spent his final years in prayerful reflection at St. Zuze Vaz Home for Priests, Jeppu.

A Witness to a Century

Msgr. Aloysius served under six bishops of the diocese and made a lasting impact in every assignment. Remembered by former students, clergy, and the laity alike, he was admired for his wisdom, humility, and the joy he radiated in his priesthood. A scholar of languages, he taught Latin and English and was deeply devoted to the Church and the Eucharist.

On his 100th birthday earlier this year, Pope Francis conferred upon him a special Papal Blessing. During the celebration, Msgr. Aloysius reflected, “A priest is ordained to serve others, not himself. Pray, work, and stick to order—this has been my mantra.”

A Legacy of Grace

Msgr. Aloysius D’Souza leaves behind not only the legacy of a centenarian but also a profound witness to God’s love and fidelity. As the Diocese of Mangalore mourns his death, it gives thanks for the blessings received through his life and ministry. His memory and example will continue to inspire generations of clergy and faithful.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

By Fr. Anil Fernandes

Director, Canara Communication Centre, Mangalore