DIMAPUR— Rev. Fr. Edathattel Benny Varghese, a catholic priest at Kohima diocese, has been nominated by Pope Francis to head the diocese of Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh as its second bishop.
Fr. Benny would succeed Rev. John Thomas Kattrukudiyil, the first bishop of Itanagar diocese, who retired from office on attainment of 75 years as per canon law (401 § 1). An update from the Kohima diocese stated that the announcement was made at the Vatican on Thursday.
It has described Fr. Benny as a versatile priest who hails from Kerala. After his schooling, his ardent desire to be a missionary of Christ brought him to Nagaland in 1986, the statement read adding after his studies and formation for priesthood in various institutions in Nagaland and Northeast, he was ordained a priest at Kohima diocese on April 19, 1999.
It added that besides his MA in History and B. Ed. Degrees from Guwahati University, he has a master degree in pastoral theology from Ateneo De Manila in Philippines.
It stated that he had served the people of Nagaland in various capacities in Kohima, Tuensang, Kiphire, Songhulh, Jalukie, Jakhama and Chümoukedima since his ordination to priesthood. It added that he has served as director of Newman Pastoral Centre, Chümoukedima, and director of the Youth Ministry in the diocese for the last one year.
The statement stated that Fr. Benny is a committed hard working priest, who is very pastoral minded, enthusiastic in helping others and compassionate to the weak and needy. It added that he is very hospitable, generous and kind to all who approach him.
Meanwhile, the diocese of Kohima has expressed pride on his being nominated bishop. It stated that Rev. Fr. Benny would be consecrated and takes charge of his new office within three months of his nomination.
