New Church Blessed and Inaugurated in Tribal Heartland of Srikakulam Diocese

Visakhapatnam, January 19, 2026:

A moment of joy and faith unfolded in the Srikakulam Diocese with the solemn blessing and inauguration of the newly constructed St. Thomas Church at Bamsugam, a tribal region of the diocese. The ceremony was led by Rt. Rev. Fr. Rayarala Vijaya Kumar, PIME, Bishop of Srikakulam, in the presence of priests, religious, and a large gathering of the faithful.

During the celebration, Bishop Vijaya Kumar expressed his deep appreciation to Fr. Anil Thomas, CM, Provincial, and Fr. Thomas, CM, Parish Priest, whose dedication, vision, and tireless efforts were instrumental in bringing the church project to completion.

Local parishioners added colour and meaning to the occasion through traditional songs and dances, beautifully reflecting their rich tribal heritage and drawing warm appreciation from all present.

Following the official blessing and inauguration of the church by the Bishop and the Provincial, the Holy Eucharist was celebrated with Bishop Vijaya Kumar presiding. His melodious singing and inspiring homily created a deeply prayerful and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.

Traditional hymns and cultural expressions further enriched the liturgy, enhancing its solemnity and spiritual depth. At the conclusion of the Mass, Fr. Anil Thomas, CM, and Fr. Thomas, CM, offered heartfelt thanks to the Bishop and the priests who concelebrated the Eucharist.

In his concluding remarks, the Bishop once again commended the committed service of the CM Fathers and encouraged them to continue their missionary outreach with renewed zeal and dedication. The programme concluded with a felicitation of the Bishop and the clergy, marking a memorable milestone in the life of the Bamsugam parish.

By Catholic Connect News Reporter