Thamarassery Diocese honours founding bishop’s legacy through memorial

THAMARASSERY, Kerala (Indian Catholic News) — The bishop of Thamarassery has called Catholics across the diocese to commemorate its founding bishop through memorial liturgies and prayers, highlighting his enduring influence on the Church’s growth.

In a pastoral circular issued ahead of the June 11 anniversary of Bishop Sebastian Mankuzhikary’s passing, Bishop Remigiose Inchananiyil called on priests, religious, and lay faithful to honour the first shepherd of the Diocese of Thamarassery as a visionary leader whose legacy continues to guide and inspire the local Church.

The bishop described June as “a month filled with memories of a blessed life” associated with the diocese and said Bishop Mankuzhikary’s “profound scholarship, deep love for Christ and simplicity of life” made him a widely admired Church leader.

He praised the founding bishop’s “unwavering convictions,” “inspiring preaching” and “prophetic vision,” saying they provided strength and direction to the Church in Kerala.

According to the circular, Bishop Mankuzhikary assumed leadership of the diocese when it had few material resources but transformed those limitations through determination and foresight. He established diocesan administrative offices, pastoral departments and institutions for priestly formation while encouraging the development of agricultural settlements.

The bishop said the pastoral initiatives launched under Bishop Mankuzhikary laid “strong foundations” that continue to support the diocese four decades later.

“We should offer thanks to God for the blessings our diocese has received through Bishop Mankuzhikary,” the circular says.

The bishop invited priests, religious and lay faithful to participate in the cathedral celebration and instructed parish priests throughout the diocese to celebrate memorial Masses and offer prayers for the late bishop in their parishes either on June 11 or on a nearby date with the participation of parishioners.

Looking beyond the anniversary observance, Bishop Inchananiyil encouraged Catholics to draw inspiration from the founding bishop’s example.

“As we continue our journey toward the future, the life and vision of Bishop Sebastian Mankuzhikary remain a lasting memory and inspiration,” the circular says.

He concluded by urging the faithful to “honor his sacred memory,” “pay our tribute to him” and continue praying for the late bishop.

The Diocese of Thamarassery, erected by Pope John Paul II on April 28, 1986, continues to honour its founding shepherd, Bishop Mankuzhikary, according to its official website.

Appointed while serving as auxiliary bishop of Ernakulam, Bishop Mankuzhikary guided the new diocese after its inauguration on July 3, 1986. Known for his simplicity and closeness to the faithful, he strengthened pastoral care, education, and lay participation. He died June 11, 1994 at the age of 65.

Full pastoral letter available: original Malayalam and AI‑generated English translation.