Hyderabad: Rev. Anthony Poola became the new spiritual leader of Roman Catholics in Hyderabad Archdiocese here on Sunday. In the Pontifical High Mass celebrated by several bishops and priests, he was installed as the fifth Archbishop of Hyderabad.

The grand ceremony was held at St Mary’s High School grounds in Secunderabad where the faithful flocked to have a glimpse of the new Archbishop, who formally became the leader of Roman Catholics living in the State. Priests and nuns from the diocese and various congregations attended the installation ceremony.

Speaking on the occasion, he told the gathering that his focus would be pastoral work, education, health services and social welfare activities.

“Teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ such as love, brotherhood and service to the society will be implemented in letter and spirit. As the new shepherd of the church in Hyderabad, I will strive hard for attaining universal brotherhood,” he said.

The Archbishop said at this time of distress due to Covid-19, the Catholic church would stand by the people and serve the needy. Pope Francis on November 19 had appointed Bishop Poola Anthony as Archbishop to the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Hyderabad.

Pope Francis accepted the outgoing Archbishop Thumma Bala’s resignation, as he reached the retirement age of 75 years by April 2019.

The Archbishop Emeritus Thumma Bala and several other bishops congratulated the new Archbishop.

Also read:

Rev. Poola Anthony to take over as new Archbishop of Hyderabad

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