Itanagar, 30 June 30, 2023 – The announcement of Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese Edathattel’s appointment as the second Bishop of Itanagar by His Holiness, Pope Francis, has sparked jubilation in Itanagar, Kohima, and other places. The news was made known in Rome on 29 June, 2023, at 15:30 hours Indian time on the feast day Sts Peter and Paul.
Fr. Benny Varghese’s appointment follows the resignation of Bishop John Thomas Kattrukudiyil upon reaching the age of 75. The Catholic community in Itanagar and Kohima eagerly awaits the leadership of their new shepherd.
Fr. Benny Varghese was born on 22 April 1970, in Njayappilly, Kothamangalam, Kerala, to Late Mr. Varghese Cheriyan and Late Mrs. Annakutty Varghese. His journey to priesthood began after completing his school education when he joined the Diocese of Kohima as a candidate.
He pursued his philosophical studies at Salesian College Dimapur and theological studies at Oriens Theological College, Shillong. On 19 April 1999, he was ordained as a priest, marking the beginning of his dedicated service to the Catholic Church.
Fr. Benny Varghese gained pastoral experience and served in various capacities, including as Secretary to the Bishop of Kohima for five years. He furthered his studies at the East Asian Pastoral Institute in Manila, Philippines, where he obtained Diplomas in Pastoral Ministry and Effective Steward Leadership. He also earned a Master’s degree in Pastoral Studies and a B.Ed. degree.
His involvement in organizing Small Christian Communities and catechetical ministry at the diocesan and regional levels demonstrated his commitment to nurturing and guiding the faithful. He also served as the parish priest of Kiphire and the principal of St. Peter’s School Kiphre for five years. Later, he became the Administrator of St. Joseph’s College Jakhama, Nagaland.
Currently, Fr. Benny Varghese serves as the director of the Diocesan Pastoral Centre at Chumukedima in Dimapur, where he has showcased his administrative skills and pastoral expertise.
Fr. Benny Varghese’s appointment as the second Bishop of Itanagar brings with it a wealth of administrative skills and pastoral experience. The Priests, Religious, and Faithful of the Diocese of Itanagar joyfully welcome him as their shepherd.
Born as the second last of nine children to Lt. Mr. Varghese Cheriyan and Lt. Mrs. Annakutty Varghese on 22 April 1970, in Nayapilly, Kerala, Fr. Benny Varghese Edathattel embarked on his journey to priesthood at a young age. He completed his academic studies during his formation and pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Kohima.
Fr. Benny Varghese’s dedication to his vocation is evident in his educational achievements. He completed his Pre-University Course and graduation at St. Joseph College, Jakhama. He obtained a B.A. Hons from St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, and a B.Ed. from Guwahati University. Furthermore, he earned an M.A. in History from Guwahati University and an M.A. in Pastoral Theology from Ateneo De Manila in the Philippines.
Throughout his pastoral ministry in the Diocese of Kohima, Fr. Benny Varghese served in various capacities. He began as an assistant priest at St. Thomas Church, Tuensang, and later became the Director of the Agricultural Training cum Production Centre and the Dean of Studies at St. Xavier Seminary, Jalukie. He also held the positions of Secretary to the Bishop, Director of SCC, and Secretary for Faith Formation in the North East India Region. Additionally, he served as the parish priest of St. Peter’s Church, Kiphire, and the Administrator of St. Joseph College, Jakhama.
Known for his commitment, hard work, and pastoral mindset, Fr. Benny Varghese is highly regarded within the Diocese of Kohima. He is compassionate towards the weak and needy, hospitable, generous, and kind to all who approach him.
As the Bishop-elect of Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, Fr. Benny Varghese will bring his extensive pastoral experience and compassionate nature to guide and lead the Catholic community in the region. His appointment fills the faithful with hope and optimism for the future, as they anticipate the positive impact he will have on their spiritual journey and the growth of the diocese.
The news of Fr. Benny Varghese Edathattel’s appointment has been received with great enthusiasm, and the Priests, Religious, and Faithful of the Diocese of Itanagar eagerly await his arrival as their new shepherd.
