His Holiness Pope Francis has officially appointed Rev. Fr. John Carvalho as Bishop of Ajmer, ushering in a new era of faith and leadership for the Diocese of Ajmer. The announcement was made public at 04:30 P.M. Indian Standard Time in the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Ajmer on Saturday, 1 March 2025, marking a significant milestone in the journey of this devoted servant.
Celebrating Rev. Fr. John Carvalho as Bishop of Ajmer: A Journey of Faith
In a heartfelt message, the Apostolic Administrator, Rt. Rev. Bishop Oswald Lewis, praised this divine appointment. He shared words of gratitude inspired by the Psalms:
"For the gift of our new bishop, we praise and thank God in the words of the Psalmist:
'I will thank you Lord among the peoples, among the nations I will praise you, for your love reaches to the heavens and your truth to the skies.' (Ps. 56)" This message warmly welcomes Rev. Fr. John Carvalho as Bishop of Ajmer, emphasizing his commitment to renewing and guiding the faithful.
A Life Dedicated to Service
Born in April 1969 in Basrur at St. Philip Neri Church, Udupi diocese, Karnataka, Fr. John Carvalho hails from a devout Catholic family. His journey began at St. Theresa's Minor Seminary in Ajmer in 1986, leading him to further studies at St. Joseph's Regional Seminary in Prayagraj obtaining BTh from Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome. Ordained on May 13, 1996, by Emeritus Rt. Rev. Ignatius Menezes, his extensive academic and pastoral background—including degrees in Arts, Social Work, and Education—has well-prepared him for this vital role.
Leadership and Community Service
Throughout his priesthood, Rev. Fr. John Carvalho has held various leadership positions. From serving as an assistant Parish Priest and Vice Principal at St. Paul's Church and School in Vallabh Nagar, Kota, to being the Parish Priest in multiple places, his roles have consistently centered around education and spiritual guidance. His tenure as Director of the Diocesan Social Service Society and his contributions to the College of Consultors and Diocesan Education Society further illustrate his deep commitment to the Church and the diocese.
A Vision for Renewal
As the Diocese of Ajmer embarks on this new chapter under the guidance of Rev. Fr. John Carvalho as Bishop of Ajmer, prayers and warm wishes are offered for his continued success. His mission is to foster renewal within the Church and to serve the people with love, mirroring the compassion of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. With the intercession of Mary, Mother of Priests, his leadership promises to bring hope, strength, and a renewed spirit to all.
Join us in celebrating this momentous occasion and in praying for a fruitful and inspiring tenure for Rev. Fr. John Carvalho as Bishop of Ajmer.