Fr. Benny Palliparambil –
Jhansi: Fr. Wilfred Gregory Moras has been officially ordained as the Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Jhansi, a historic city in the north Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Balwant Nagar was the old name of Jhansi. marking a significant milestone in his ecclesiastical career.
The ordination ceremony took place on August 6, 2024, at Christ the King College grounds, officiated by Archbishop Raphy Manjaly of Agra, in the presence of His Eminence Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal. The event was attended by a large congregation, with nearly 3,000 people present and over 10,000 viewers participating online.
Born on February 13, 1969, in Neerude, Mangalore, Wilfred Gregory Moras is the son of David and Florine Moras. He began his religious studies at St. Paul’s Minor Seminary in Dilkusha from 1987 to 1989 and continued at St. Joseph’s Regional Seminary in Allahabad. He was ordained a priest on April 27, 1997, for the Diocese of Lucknow, where he has served in various capacities, including professor, secretary to the bishop, and principal of several educational institutions.
On May 11, 2024, Pope Francis appointed Moras as the Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi. His ordination ceremony was a meticulously planned liturgical service that emphasized devotion and community spirit. The event featured a vibrant choir that uplifted the atmosphere, and a biblically grounded homily delivered by Most Rev. Ignatius D’Souza, which enriched the liturgy and the ordination ceremony.
The ceremony commenced with the presentation of the candidate by Rev. Father Tarcius Britto, the Vicar General of the Diocese of Jhansi. The Apostolic letter announcing Moras’s appointment was read by Rev. Fr. Arulraj. The stage was beautifully decorated, creating a fitting backdrop for the solemn occasion.
Bishop Moras addressed the audience in Hindi, expressing gratitude and humility, stating, “Ishwar ka sevak Bishop Wilfred ka pehla abhivandan sweekary ho – Jai Yesu,” which translates to “Please accept the first greetings from the servant of God Bishop Wilfred – Jai Yesu.” He further emphasized his humanity, saying, “Maati ka putla hu me, apse juda ni hu, prem daya aur karuna dikhana Kyo ki me bhi insane hu, khuda ni hu,” meaning, “I am also a human being and not God!”.
The ordination was well-received, with family members, friends, and clergy from various dioceses in attendance. Following the ceremony, a sumptuous meal was provided for attendees at different locations, contributing to the celebratory atmosphere. The event was not only a significant ecclesiastical milestone for Bishop Moras but also a moment of joy and unity for the community.
Bishop Wilfred Gregory Moras’s ordination as Coadjutor Bishop of Jhansi is anticipated to bring fresh leadership and guidance to the diocese. His extensive background in education and pastoral care positions him well to lead the faithful in Jhansi. As he embarks on this new chapter, the community’s prayers and support will be vital in fulfilling the mission ahead. The event concluded with a hopeful note, as Moras expressed his commitment to leading the flock towards God, embodying the spirit of service and humility that defines his ministry.