BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 1st August 2025 : Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, embarked on his maiden visit to the Diocese of Agartala from July 26 to 27, stirring joy and fervent welcome among the local Catholic community.
Although the visit was unofficial, its impact was deeply spiritual and pastoral. Youth from several parishes launched the weekend with a vibrant bike rally, escorting the Vatican envoy from the airport to the Bishop’s House, symbolizing the community’s zeal and anticipation.
A formal reception followed at Holy Cross School, where Archbishop Girelli engaged with hostel students, commending the Holy Cross Congregation for their unwavering commitment to education in Tripura. He encouraged students to embrace the values offered through Catholic education and become messengers of integrity and compassion in society.
The Archbishop later visited the Holy Cross Provincial House, holding an intimate dialogue with senior priests. He expressed heartfelt appreciation for their lifelong dedication and missionary outreach, recognizing their vital role in shaping the diocesan faith journey.
Continuing his mission of compassion, Archbishop Girelli visited Nirmala Sishu Bhavan, Mother Teresa’s Home, where he met the Sisters and residents. He lauded their steadfast service to the sick and marginalized, affirming their embodiment of Christian love and charity.
An evening gathering at the Bishop’s House brought together clergy, religious, and lay faithful. Bishop Lumen Monteiro, CSC, DD, officially welcomed the Nuncio, while Sr Marcellina Sangma FMA, Superior of Auxilium Agartala, presented a comprehensive overview of the diocese’s pastoral activities. In his address, Archbishop Girelli shared tailored messages to various groups:
• To priests: Ministry should be led by love, not mere obligation—echoing Pope Leo’s wisdom on grace and service.
• To religious: Their vows mark a sacred bond of belonging to the Lord.
• To lay faithful: Their active pastoral engagement, especially the work of catechists, was celebrated as pivotal to the Church’s mission.
The second day coincided with the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Archbishop Girelli led the Eucharistic celebration at the Cathedral, urging the faithful to honor their elders as bearers of wisdom and dignity in both Church and society.
The final leg of the visit included a stop at Don Bosco Parish Church, Nandan Nagar, warmly received by the local congregation. A concluding luncheon at Auxilium Convent featured heartfelt greetings from boarding students, Salesian Cooperators, and Catholic Laity of Tripura (CLT) leaders.
Before departing, Archbishop Girelli expressed deep gratitude for the community’s love, hospitality, and spiritual vibrancy. He was accompanied throughout the visit by his secretary, Fr Stephen Fernandes.
