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Mumbai: The Archdiocese of Bombay has announced the appointment of Rev. Fr. Stephen Fernandes as Bishop-elect, marking a significant moment for the Catholic community in Mumbai. Known for his scholarship, pastoral dedication, and leadership within the Church, Bishop-elect Fernandes has served in various academic and ecclesiastical capacities over more than three decades of priestly ministry. Early life and education Born on 21 September 1961 to John and Palmira Fernandes, parishioners of Our Lady of Salvation Church, Dadar, Fr. Stephen Fernandes pursued his education in commerce and education at the University of Mumbai, holding B.Com., M.Com., and B.Ed. degrees. He later discerned his vocation to the priesthood and completed his formation at St. Pius X College (Archdiocesan Seminary), Goregaon. He was ordained a priest on 31 March 1990 by Simon Cardinal Pimenta for the Archdiocese of Bombay. Priestly and academic ministry Fr. Fernandes began his priestly ministry as Assistant Parish Priest at St. John the Evangelist Church, Marol (1990–1992). He later joined the staff of St. Pius X College (1992–1994), before being sent to Rome to pursue higher studies. At the Alphonsian Academy, he completed both his Licentiate and Doctorate in Theology (1994–2000), specialising in Moral Theology. Upon his return to Mumbai, he rejoined St. Pius X College as Resident Professor of Moral Theology and Formator, a position he held until 2018. During this period, from 2010 to 2018, he also served as Executive Secretary of the Commission for Theology and Doctrine at the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), contributing significantly to theological discourse and doctrinal clarity in the Indian Church. National service and expertise Currently, Fr. Fernandes serves at the Apostolic Nunciature in New Delhi, residing at the CBCI Centre. He is also Theological Counsellor to the Catholic Medical Guild of St. Luke, Mumbai, and Ecclesiastical Advisor to the Catholic Nurses’ Guild of India (Archdiocese of Bombay). A recognised authority in Catholic Social Teaching and Medical Ethics, Bishop-elect Fernandes has presented scholarly papers at national and international seminars. His years at the Apostolic Nunciature have deepened his pastoral and administrative experience, giving him a broader understanding of the Church’s mission across India. Archdiocese extends congratulations The Archdiocese of Bombay has expressed joy and gratitude over his appointment, highlighting his intellectual depth, pastoral zeal, and commitment to Church values. In a statement, the Archdiocese said, “The Archdiocese of Bombay rejoices at this appointment and assures Bishop-elect Stephen Fernandes of its fervent prayers as he prepares to receive episcopal consecration.” His episcopal ordination is expected to take place in the coming weeks, details of which will be formally announced by Church authorities.
