Agartala (Tripura), July 27: Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Vatican’s Ambassador to India, made his maiden visit to the Diocese of Agartala over the weekend, receiving an enthusiastic and heartfelt welcome from the local Catholic community during his two-day stay on July 26 and 27.
Although the visit was unofficial, it was rich in spiritual engagement and meaningful interactions. Known as the Apostolic Nuncio, the Delhi-based envoy was warmly received upon arrival. Youth representatives from several parish communities greeted him with a vibrant bike rally from the airport to the Bishop’s House, setting a joyous tone for the visit.
In a press statement, Spokesperson, Diocese of Agartala Joseph Pulinthanath said, a formal reception was organized at Holy Cross School, where Archbishop Girelli interacted with hostel students. He commended the Holy Cross Congregation for its exemplary dedication to education in the state and reiterated the Church’s longstanding commitment to empowering communities through learning. Addressing the students, he urged them to embrace the values of Catholic education and become bearers of Christian virtues within society and the state.
Following his school engagement, the Nuncio visited the Holy Cross Provincial House for a meeting with senior clergy members. There, he expressed deep gratitude for their pastoral commitment and acknowledged their tireless missionary work in Tripura.
The Archbishop also paid a visit to Nirmala Sishu Bhavan—Mother Teresa’s home in Agartala—where he spent time with the inmates and the Missionaries of Charity sisters. He praised their loving service to the sick and marginalized, describing their efforts as a true reflection of Christian compassion and charity.
Later in the evening, Archbishop Girelli attended a gathering at the Bishop’s House, where he interacted with priests, religious members, and lay leaders. Bishop Lumen Monteiro, CSC, DD, officially welcomed the Nuncio, while Sr. Marcellina Sangma, FMA, Superior of Auxilium Agartala, offered a detailed presentation on the diocese and its ongoing mission.
In his address, the Archbishop delivered personalized messages for each group present. Speaking to the priests, he emphasized that their ministry must stem from love rather than obligation, echoing Pope Leo’s teaching that a priest’s bond with his people is a divine grace. To religious men and women, he highlighted the beauty of their vocation and the significance of their vows, calling it a profound act of belonging to God. He also lauded the lay faithful, especially catechists, for their active role in building and sustaining the Church’s mission in the diocese.
On Sunday, July 27, which coincided with the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, Archbishop Girelli presided over the morning Mass at the Cathedral. During his homily, he called on the congregation to cherish and honour the elderly, recognizing them as vital bearers of wisdom and faith across families, communities, and the Church.
Later, the Nuncio, accompanied by Bishop Monteiro, visited Don Bosco Parish in Nandan Nagar, where he was warmly greeted by parishioners. The visit concluded with a fellowship lunch at Auxilium Convent. Boarding students, members of the Salesian Cooperators, and leaders of the Catholic Laity of Tripura (CLT) extended their gratitude and felicitations to the Vatican envoy.
Before departing, Archbishop Girelli expressed his sincere appreciation for the hospitality and affection he received throughout his stay. He was accompanied on his visit by his secretary, Fr. Stephen Fernandes.
