Pope accepts Cardinal Gracias’ resignation

Mumbai: Pope Francis has officially accepted the resignation of Oswald Cardinal Gracias, the archbishop of Bombay. Following this, Bishop John Rodrigues, who was appointed coadjutor bishop on Nov 30, has now formally assumed office as the archbishop.Originally submitted five years ago, Cardinal Gracias' resignation received final approval in Rome on Saturday. He completed 80 years of age in Dec 2024.In a video message Cardinal Gracias expressed heartfelt gratitude to all his collaborators in the archdiocese, including bishops, priests, the laity and citizens of Mumbai. Fr Nigel Barrett, spokesperson for the archdiocese of Bombay, said, "He offered special thanks to the presbyterium of the archdiocese for their dedication and support throughout his tenure. Acknowledging the Holy Father's paternal care and God's protection, Cardinal Gracias gave thanks for the grace and guidance he experienced as the shepherd of the Church in Bombay, The archdiocese deeply acknowledges the remarkable contributions of Cardinal Gracias, whose visionary leadership has left an indelible legacy in the local Church, the national Church in India, and the universal Church." Incoming archbishop John Rodrigues said, "Cardinal Gracias was a giant of a man, and now as his successor I have mighty big shoes to fill." To welcome Rodrigues, a eucharistic celebration will be held on Tuesday, Feb 11, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, at Holy Name Cathedral, Colaba.His installation as coadjutor bishop had taken place at the Cathedral on Jan 23. Archbishop John Rodrigues now serves as the head of the Church in Bombay and the metropolitan head of the Bombay ecclesiastical province.