The stones of Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral stand as a testament to faith, but the spirit of this parish was forged by the hearts of the men who led it. Since 1950, seventeen shepherds have guided this flock through seasons of growth, transition, and transformation. This is the chronicle of their service, a legacy of devotion that continues to light our path today.
For the first four decades, our parish history was written in the quiet dedication of pioneers who laid the groundwork for the Udaipur Catholic community. The journey began with Rev. Fr. Edgar, O.F.M. Cap. (1950–1957), who served during the post-independence years of the mission. He was followed by the monumental tenure of Rev. Fr. Avito Coutinho (1957–1981), whose 24 years of service defined a generation and solidified the roots of our parish.
The early 80s were marked by the focused leadership of Rev. Fr. Augustine Mannoor (1981–1982) and Rev. Fr. Joseph Anickatt (1982–1983), followed by the pastoral guidance of Rev. Fr. Andrew Bhuriya (1983–1987) and Rev. Fr. Varghese Kaipada (1987–1993). While their personal writings remain in our archives, their true message is found in the thriving community they helped build.
As the parish grew, so did the dream of a permanent spiritual home. Rev. Fr. Marcel Dodiyar (1993–1998) Before our Cathedral existed, Fr. Marcel gathered the faithful in a simple hall at St. Paul’s School. He embraced a diverse family of believers, from Kerala to Goa and beyond, building a "living Church" before a physical one was ever built. Rev. Fr. George Chamakala (1998–2001 & 2002–2004) Serving during the construction of our Cathedral, Fr. George worked to ensure the design reflected Rajasthan’s rich heritage. He envisioned a spiritual home that felt native to the land, focusing on Indianisation and Small Christian Communities.
Rev. Fr. Basil Makwana (May 2001–Dec 2001) In his brief but impactful first tenure as a Parish Priest, Fr. Basil focused on the spiritual nourishment of families through the Holy Eucharist and pastoral care.
In the 21st century, the focus shifted toward nurturing the youth and modernizing our outreach. Following the service of Rev. Fr. Vinay Dhama (2004–2007), our parish entered a vibrant phase of community engagement. Rev. Fr. Marcus Garcia (2007–2010) Fr. Marcus brought contagious enthusiasm to the youth and children. From crib making to home visits, his ministry was defined by being "present" in the lives of every family. Rev. Fr. Kulranjan Nicholas (2010–2016) Focused on "the strength of the people," Fr. Kulranjan promoted unity through parish picnics and inter-church sports, ensuring the parish felt like one large family.
Rev. Fr. Paulson Thanikal (2016–2019) Fr. Paulson’s years were marked by deep compassion, from installing kneelers for the elderly to building houses for the needy during Lent. He also established the annual Novena to Our Lady of Fatima. Rev. Fr. Arvind Amliyar (2019–2022) Faced with the COVID-19 pandemic, Fr. Arvind moved the parish online to keep the faithful connected. He stood as a shepherd in the darkest times, ensuring dignity for the departed when fear was at its peak. Rev. Fr. James Jacob (2022–2025) Inspired by St. Carlo Acutis, Fr. James championed the use of digital technology to enhance our relationship with God. His tenure bridged the gap between tradition and the modern digital world.
Currently leading our parish into its next chapter, Fr. Babu continues the legacy of innovation and pastoral care, ensuring our Cathedral remains a beacon of hope in Udaipur.
Join our parish gatherings designed to deepen faith, encourage reflection, and strengthen community bonds. Through prayer, dialogue, and shared experiences, we grow together in understanding, hope, and spiritual renewal.
Guiding the spiritual and administrative life of the cathedral through shared responsibility and vision.
serving the members with timely refreshments and food on feast days and special occasions ensuring quality and overall satisfaction.
Coordinating worship celebrations, prayer services, and liturgical preparation for the parish community.
Serving the community through outreach programs, charity initiatives, and compassionate support.
Nurturing children and families through faith formation and Christian education.
"As we honor those who have served, we invite you to be part of our continuing story. If you have photographs or memories of our former priests, please contact the Parish Office to help us preserve our history."
