Fr. Bernard Laloo Ordained as Auxiliary Bishop of Shillong

March 30, 2025 Uncategorised
In a momentous celebration of faith, Fr. Bernard Laloo was ordained as the new Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Shillong during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Calvary Cathedral. The ordination was presided over by Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh and attended by Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, along with three regional archbishops, thirteen bishops, three auxiliary bishops, two emeriti bishops, and hundreds of priests.
Bishop Laloo, notably the youngest bishop in the region—a distinction previously held by Bishop Wilbert Marwein of Nongstoin—was appointed to serve as a beacon of hope for the faithful. Auxiliary Bishop of Tura, Jose Chirackal, highlighted the significance of youthful leadership in the Church during the occasion.
The event drew over 150,000 faithful, including Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma, Deputy Chief Minister Prestone Tynsong, and MLA Vincent Pala. With the cathedral packed to capacity, the celebration was broadcast live on ten large screens outside the venue.
Fr. Richard Majaw, Episcopal Vicar, welcomed the congregation before the Mass, and the Apostolic Nuncio delivered the Holy See’s mandate in Latin, translated into Khasi by Fr. Majaw.
In his homily, Archbishop Lyngdoh expressed gratitude for the gift of a new shepherd, drawing a parallel between Bishop Laloo and the biblical figure Joshua. He encouraged the new bishop to lead with humility and compassion, guiding the faithful through love and reconciliation.
During the post-communion message, Archbishop Girelli conveyed greetings from the Holy Father and commended the late Archbishop Dominic Jala for his years of dedicated service. He encouraged Bishop Laloo to remain steadfast in faith, invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the inspiration of St. Joseph. Reflecting on the bishop’s motto, “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31), he emphasized the significance of trust in God during this Jubilee Year of Hope.
The offertory procession featured cultural performances by children in traditional Khasi and Garo attire, celebrating the region’s rich heritage.
In his thanksgiving address, Bishop Laloo offered heartfelt gratitude to God and to Pope Francis for entrusting him with this responsibility. He also acknowledged the support of Archbishop John Moolachira and Archbishop Linus Neill.
Archbishop Lyngdoh, in a personal reflection, shared his own journey of faith, affirming that God’s grace surpasses all limitations.
As Bishop Laloo begins his episcopal ministry, the Archdiocese of Shillong looks forward with hope to a future of renewed unity, service, and spiritual growth under his leadership.

Best WordPress Theme

created with

WordPress Website Builder.