Vocations
A parish with an extraordinary legacy of service to the Church
Holy Saviour Church, Agrar, holds a distinction that few parishes in India — or the world — can claim. Over its 320+ year history, this single parish has produced four bishops, over a hundred priests, and over two hundred religious sisters. This remarkable outpouring of vocations reflects the deep faith, prayerful families, and vibrant community life that have defined Agrar for generations.
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Bishops
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Priests
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Religious Sisters
Bishops from Agrar
Four sons of Agrar have been elevated to the episcopate — an achievement unmatched by most parishes. Two served the Diocese of Ajmer in succession, one led the Diocese of Mangalore, and one became the founding Bishop of Udupi.
Notably, the first two Secular Bishops of the Diocese of Mangalore — Rev. Dr. Valerian J. D'Souza and Rev. Dr. Victor A. Fernandes— had also served in Agrar, further underlining the parish's deep connection to the episcopate.
Most Rev. Dr. Ignatius Menezes
Bishop of Ajmer (1979–2012)
Born on 3 January 1936 at Agrar. Ordained priest on 21 December 1963 for the Diocese of Lucknow. Appointed Bishop of Ajmer on 15 November 1978 and consecrated on 17 February 1979. Served as Bishop of Ajmer for 34 years until his retirement on 3 November 2012.
Most Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D'Souza
Bishop of Mangalore (1996–2018)
Born on 21 June 1941 at Hekkotu, Agrar. Ordained priest on 3 December 1966. Earned a doctorate in Canon Law from Rome and became the first Indian priest appointed Advocate of the Roman Rota. Appointed Bishop of Mangalore on 15 May 1996. Translated the Bible into Konkani in mini-pocket form. Retired on 3 July 2018.
Most Rev. Dr. Gerald Isaac Lobo
Bishop of Udupi (2012–2026)
Born on 12 November 1949 at Agrar. Ordained priest on 5 May 1977. Appointed Bishop of Shimoga on 3 December 1999. Later appointed as the first Bishop of the newly erected Diocese of Udupi on 16 July 2012, where he served until his retirement on 31 January 2026.
Most Rev. Dr. Pius Thomas D'Souza
Bishop of Ajmer (2012–present)
Born on 4 May 1954 at Agrar. Ordained priest on 28 March 1982 for the Diocese of Lucknow. Earned a doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Urban University, Rome. Appointed Bishop of Ajmer on 3 November 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI, succeeding his fellow Agrarian Bishop Ignatius Menezes.
Priests & Religious
Over a hundred men from Agrar have answered the call to the priesthood, serving across India and abroad in dioceses, religious congregations, and missionary orders. Over two hundred women have entered religious life, serving in education, healthcare, and pastoral ministry.
Their collective contribution to the Catholic Church — as teachers, administrators, chaplains, missionaries, and spiritual guides — is a living testament to the faith nurtured in the families and community of Holy Saviour Parish.