In a significant development for the Roman Catholic community in Maharashtra, Pope Leo XIV has appointed Fr Simon Almeida, 65, as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Poona. Fr Almeida, who currently serves as Deputy Secretary of the Western Regional Bishops’ Council and Parish Priest of St Joseph’s Church in Ghorpadi, will succeed Bishop John Rodrigues, who was appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of Bombay in November 2024. The appointment marks a new chapter in the leadership of one of Maharashtra’s prominent dioceses, known for its rich history, active parishes, and community service initiatives.

Fr Simon Almeida’s journey in the priesthood spans 35 years of dedicated service, during which he has held several key pastoral and administrative roles across the diocese. His appointment has been welcomed by clergy and laity alike, who recognize his extensive experience, educational background, and deep commitment to pastoral care.

Early Life and Education

Born on November 4, 1960, in Gass, Bhatori, Fr Almeida completed his schooling at St Gonsalo Garcia Primary School and Holy Cross High School, Nirmal. His early education laid a strong foundation for his future vocation, fostering a deep interest in spiritual service and community engagement.

In 1978, he joined Prakash Bhavan Minor Seminary in Pune, where he began his formal preparation for priesthood. Following his seminary education, Fr Almeida pursued philosophical and theological studies at St Pius X College, Mumbai, a well-regarded institution for ecclesiastical formation. He was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Poona on April 1, 1990, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serving the Church and the wider community.

In addition to his theological education, Fr Almeida holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Sociology from the University of Bombay, reflecting his interest in understanding human behavior, social dynamics, and community development. Further strengthening his leadership credentials, he earned a Diploma in Foundations for Pastoral Renewal and Steward Leadership from the East Asian Pastoral Institute in Manila, as well as a Master’s degree in Pastoral Studies from Ateneo de Manila University, a leading institution in the Philippines known for its focus on social justice, leadership, and pastoral care. These academic achievements equip him with both intellectual rigor and practical insight for guiding a diverse and growing diocese.

Priestly Ministry and Pastoral Work

Over the course of his priesthood, Fr Almeida has served in a variety of roles that combine pastoral care, spiritual guidance, and administrative responsibility. His early assignments included serving as Assistant Parish Priest at St Patrick’s Cathedral and St Ignatius Parish in Kirkee, where he gained hands-on experience in parish management, community outreach, and liturgical duties.

He later became Rector of Prakash Bhavan Minor Seminary, where he guided young seminarians through their formation, instilling in them the values of discipline, faith, and service. Fr Almeida’s role in shaping the next generation of priests reflects his commitment to education, mentorship, and the future of the Church.

Fr Almeida has also served as Parish Priest at several key parishes across the diocese, including St Patrick’s Cathedral, St Francis Xavier Parish in Chinchwad, St Anne’s Church in Sholapur Bazaar, and St John Paul II Church in Wakad. In these positions, he not only oversaw the spiritual welfare of parishioners but also initiated programs for community engagement, education, and social support. His leadership extended beyond sacramental duties to include counselling, youth formation, and the promotion of social justice initiatives.

In addition to pastoral assignments, Fr Almeida has played a significant role in diocesan administration. He has served as the Financial Administrator of the Diocese, ensuring fiscal responsibility and transparency in church operations. His experience in managing resources, combined with his pastoral insights, positions him to balance spiritual leadership with effective governance.

Fr Almeida has also been an active participant in the Diocesan Priests’ Council and has served as a Diocesan Consultor, advising on matters of pastoral policy, strategic planning, and community programs. These roles underscore his capacity for collaborative leadership and his ability to navigate complex organizational and ecclesiastical challenges.

Vision and Leadership

Clergy and laity alike expect Fr Almeida to bring a vision of growth, inclusivity, and innovation to the Poona Diocese. His extensive background in education, pastoral care, and administration suggests a leadership style that balances tradition with modernity, emphasizing both spiritual formation and community engagement.

Observers note that his experience in managing parishes across urban and semi-urban areas equips him to address diverse pastoral challenges, from youth outreach and education to healthcare, social justice, and interfaith dialogue. His academic grounding in psychology and sociology will also aid in understanding and addressing the social and cultural contexts of parish communities, fostering initiatives that are relevant, empathetic, and impactful.

Community and Social Impact

The Poona Diocese is known for its active involvement in education, healthcare, and social welfare. Under Fr Almeida’s guidance, stakeholders anticipate continued emphasis on programs that serve marginalized populations, strengthen parish networks, and expand educational opportunities. His history of mentoring young priests and engaging with students indicates that formation and leadership development will remain key priorities.

Moreover, his international exposure through studies in Manila positions him to bring global best practices in pastoral care, social engagement, and ecclesiastical management to the local context. This experience is expected to enhance the diocese’s outreach initiatives, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen collaboration with national and international Catholic organizations.

Transition and Succession

Fr Almeida succeeds Bishop John Rodrigues, who was appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of Bombay in November 2024. The transition is seen as part of a broader continuity in leadership, ensuring stability within the diocese while introducing fresh perspectives. Church officials emphasize that Fr Almeida’s appointment reflects both recognition of his past service and confidence in his ability to guide the diocese through contemporary challenges.

The appointment of a new bishop is a significant event in the life of a diocese, impacting clergy, parishioners, and the wider community. With his extensive experience, academic credentials, and deep commitment to pastoral care, Fr Almeida is expected to provide steady and visionary leadership, reinforcing the diocese’s role as a center for spiritual growth, education, and social service.

Conclusion

Fr Simon Almeida’s appointment as Bishop of Poona marks a new era for the diocese. With a rich history of pastoral work, administrative expertise, and academic excellence, he is uniquely positioned to lead the diocese through the challenges of the 21st century while maintaining its spiritual and social mission.

Clergy, parishioners, and community leaders are optimistic about his tenure, anticipating initiatives that strengthen parish life, support clergy development, and expand the Church’s outreach in education, healthcare, and social welfare. As the Poona Diocese welcomes its new shepherd, the focus will be on continuity, growth, and service, ensuring that the Church remains a beacon of faith, learning, and compassion in Maharashtra.