The story of the Diocese of Udaipur is inseparable from the life of Most Rev. Joseph Pathalil. Born on January 26, 1937, in the Kottayam District of Kerala, his journey to the City of Lakes was one of profound sacrifice and mission. After his ordination in 1963, he dedicated over two decades to the tribal regions of Rajasthan. During this time, he served with a pastor’s heart in mission stations like Maska Mahuri, Ambapara, and the Holy Spirit Church in Dungarpur. It was during his twelve years in Dungarpur that the call came to lead a new era for the Catholic faithful in Southern Rajasthan.
Before 1984, the spiritual administration of Rajasthan was a massive undertaking. It was originally part of a prefecture established in 1913. As the community grew, the need for closer pastoral care became evident. On December 3, 1984, a historic Papal Bull officially bifurcated the Diocese of Ajmer. From this division, the Diocese of Udaipur was born. On February 14, 1985, Rev. Joseph Pathalil was ordained as its very first Bishop. He was not just a leader but a pioneer who understood the unique cultural and spiritual landscape of the region because he had walked its paths for twenty years.
After submitting his resignation in 2012, he continued to serve as Bishop Emeritus. He remained a source of wisdom and prayer at St. Paul’s in Bhupalpura, Udaipur. On April 14, 2022, Bishop Joseph Pathalil entered into eternal rest. His life remains the cornerstone of our Cathedral, and his memory continues to inspire every prayer offered within our walls.
For 27 years, Bishop Pathalil steered the Diocese through its most formative period. His leadership was defined by several key pillars:
He established the foundations of our schools, health centers, and parishes.
He bridged the gap between the urban centers of Udaipur and the remote tribal missions he loved so dearly.
In 2002, he oversaw the separation of the Madhya Pradesh portion of the Diocese to form the Diocese of Jhabua. This was a selfless move to ensure better spiritual care for the faithful in that region.
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Year
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Milestone
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1913
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Prefecture raised to Diocese of Ajmer under Bishop Fortunatus Caumont.
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1949
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Dr. Leo D'Mello appointed as the first Indian Bishop of Ajmer.
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1984
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Papal Bull bifurcates Ajmer into the Diocese of Ajmer-Jaipur and the Diocese of Udaipur.
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1985
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Rev. Joseph Pathalil is ordained as the first Bishop of Udaipur.
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2002
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The Diocese of Jhabua is formed from parts of Udaipur and Indore.
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2012
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Bishop Pathalil retires and Most Rev. Devprasad Ganawa is appointed successor.
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