Kohima, June 29 (MExN): Rev Fr Edathattel Benny Varghese, a Catholic Priest of the Diocese of Kohima, has been nominated by His Holiness Pope Francis to head the Diocese of Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh as its second Bishop.
He succeeds Most Rev John Thomas Kattrukudiyil, the first bishop of Itanagar diocese, who retired from office on attainment of age of 75 at per canon law (401 § 1) The announcement of the appointment was made at Vatican on June 29 at 3.30 pm.
Fr. Benny is 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. After his studies and formation for priesthood in various institutions in Nagaland and North East, he was ordained a priest for the diocese of Kohima on 19th April 1999. Besides his M.A. in History and B. Ed. Degrees from Guwahati University, he has a Masters degree in pastoral Theology from Ateneo De Manila in Philippines.
“Since his ordination to priesthood, he has served the people of Nagaland in various capacities at Kohima, Tuensang, Kiphire, Songhulh, Jalukie, Jakhama and Chümoukedima. For the last one year he was the Director of, Newman Pastoral Centre, Chümoukedima and Director of the Youth Ministry in the Diocese,” a press release stated here.
Fr. Benny is a committed hard working priest who is very pastoral minded, enthusiastic in helping others and compassionate to the weak and needy. He is very hospitable, generous and kind to all who approach him. The Diocese of Kohima is proud of his being nominated Bishop. Rev. Fr. Benny will be consecrated and take charge of his new office within three months of his nomination, the release stated.
