Basrur, May 26, 2025 — In a heartfelt celebration, Most Rev. John Carvalho, the newly ordained Bishop of Ajmer, returned to his native parish of St. Philip Neri in Basrur to offer a solemn Thanksgiving Eucharist. The occasion coincided with the parish's titular feast of St. Philip Neri, drawing a large congregation of faithful, clergy, and dignitaries.
The day commenced with a warm welcome by Rev. Fr Roy Lobo, Parish Priest of Basrur, and the parishioners, who greeted Bishop Carvalho at the church entrance. A ceremonial procession led the bishop into the church, symbolizing his spiritual journey and connection to his roots.
The Eucharistic celebration took place on the premises of St. Philip Neri Central School, with a distinguished assembly of bishops and clergy concelebrating. Among them were Most Rev. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese; Most Rev. Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary Diocese; Most Rev. Oswald J. Lewis, Bishop Emeritus of Jaipur; Most Rev. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar Diocese; Msgr. Edward Olivera, Vicar General of Jaipur Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Stephen D’Souza, Chancellor of Udupi Diocese; V. Rev. Dr Roshan D’Souza, Judicial Vicar of Udupi Diocese; V. Rev. Fr. Paul Rego, Dean of Kundapur Deanery; V. Rev. Fr. Alban D’Souza, Dean of Karkal Deanery; V. Rev. Fr Charles Menezes, Dean of Udupi Deanery; Rev. Fr Clement Cutinho, Priest Representative of Ajmer Diocese; and over 30 priests from the Dioceses of Udupi, Ajmer, and Mangalore.
Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo delivered the homily, reflecting on the responsibilities of a bishop in shepherding his diocese. Drawing inspiration from the Gospel, he emphasized the mission entrusted to bishops:“As the Father has sent me, so I send you” (John 20:21).He reminded Bishop Carvalho of the call to serve with humility and dedication, mirroring the example of Christ.
Following the Eucharist, a felicitation program was held on the same stage. The event commenced with a vibrant welcome dance performed by the children of Basrur Parish. Dignitaries present on the dais included Most Rev. John Carvalho, Bishop of Ajmer Diocese; Most Rev. Gerald Isaac Lobo, Bishop of Udupi Diocese; Most Rev. Henry D’Souza, Bishop of Bellary Diocese; Most Rev. Oswald J. Lewis, Bishop Emeritus of Jaipur; Most Rev. Duming Dias, Bishop of Karwar Diocese; Msgr. Edward Olivera, Vicar General of Jaipur Diocese; V. Rev. Fr Paul Rego, Dean of Kundapur Deanery; Rev. Fr Clement Cutinho, Priest Representative of Ajmer Diocese; V. Rev. Sr Rose Celine BS, Mother General of Bethany Congregation; Mrs Margaret Carvalho, mother of Bishop John Carvalho; Sr Preema Carvalho BS, sister of Bishop John Carvalho; Rev. Fr Roy Lobo, Parish Priest of Basrur Parish; and Mrs Jacintha Mendonca, Vice President of the Parish Pastoral Council of Basrur Parish.
Bishop John Carvalho, accompanied by his family and dignitaries, ceremoniously cut a celebratory cake. Msgr. Edward Olivera raised a toast, extending heartfelt wishes for the bishop's health and success in his new mission.
The choir rendered a melodious song, conveying the collective blessings and good wishes of the parishioners, family members, ward representatives, teachers, and fellow bishops.
Most Rev. Oswald Lewis addressed the gathering, offering his blessings and sharing scriptural insights to inspire Bishop Carvalho in his pastoral journey.
Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo, in his address, humorously remarked on the demanding nature of episcopal responsibilities, stating“From today, you have no free time, no personal friends, and no freedom.” He encouraged Bishop Carvalho to embrace his role with the same fervor and commitment exemplified by Jesus in His mission.
In his response, Bishop John Carvalho expressed profound gratitude to all who contributed to making the celebration a grand success. He acknowledged the support of his family, the clergy, and the faithful, seeking their continued prayers as he embarks on his episcopal ministry.
The program was gracefully compered by Rev. Fr Ashwin Aranha, Udupi Diocesan Director of Seminary and Formation Commission. Rev. Fr Roy Lobo welcomed the gathering, and Mr Lawrence Baretto, Coordinator of Pastoral Commissions of Basrur Parish, extended the vote of thanks.
The event was a testament to the unity and devotion of the Catholic community, marking a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of Bishop John Carvalho and the faithful of Basrur.