In a tragic incident, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Shillong in Meghalaya, Most Rev Dominic Jala and Salesian Fr. Mathew Vellankal passed away in a fatal car crash with a semi truck in California. They were on the way to Clearlake CA.
Fr. Joseph Pareckatt who was travelling with them is in a serious condition at the hospital.
According to Fr. G. Alangadan of Oakland who confirmed the news, “The accident occurred around 11 pm (10:30 am India) on Thursday when the two were travelling to Clearlake in California along with Father Joseph Parekkatt. Their car collided with a semi-truck in Colusa Country, California,” stated a press note from the diocese of Oakland.
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi today mourned the passing away of Rev. Domnic Jala. In a tweet he expressed deep sadness at the passing away of archbishop, “Anguished by the passing away of Most Rev. Dominic Jala, the Archbishop of Shillong. He will be remembered for his impeccable service to society and passion towards Meghalaya’s progress. May his soul rest in peace.”
Archbishop Jala was born on July 12, 1951, at Mawlai. He was appointed as Archbishop of Shillong on December 22, 1999, and ordained as Archbishop on April 2, 2000. He was also the President of the North East India Regional Bishop’s Council (NEIRBC).
Fr. John Madur, Chancellor of the Shillong Archdiocese too expressed profound grief and said, “With great sorrow, we inform you that our beloved Archbishop, Most Rev. Dominic Jala, died in a car accident in the USA. Please pray for the departed soul.”
In a message from Oakland, Rev. George Mockel, vicar general of the Catholic Diocese of Oakland, said: “It is with deep sadness that I inform you of the death of Fr Mathew Vellankal, pastor of St. Bonaventure who was in a automobile accident in Colusa County on October 10. Archbishop Dominic Jala, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Shillong in Meghalaya, India also died as a result of the accident. Accompanying them was Fr Joseph Parekkat who was injured but is now in stable condition in the hospital. Arrangements for autopsy are being carried out. Our deepest condolences to the people of St Bonnaventure and Holy Spirit, Fremont as well as the Archdiocese of Shillong. Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let eternal light shune upon them. May their soul and souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace.”
May their soul RIP Amen
Our prayers for the sudden and sad demise of our Most Rev our dear humble Arch Bishop Dominic Jala and fr Mathew May their souls RIP”’
May God grant them heavenly bliss
RIP Arch Bishop Dominic Jala. Thank you MODIJI the Prime Minister of India.
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let your perpetual light shine upon Archbishop Dominic Jala and Fr Mathew.