Established	:	2007
Patron	:	Mary, Mother of God
Address	:	Ishmata Ashram, Ajhuwa, Kaushambi District
Religious	:	Friends of Birds of the Air

A Brief History

A plot of land was bought near the railway station in Ajhuwa which is in Kaushambi District. There was a building already existing where a priest was stationed to look after the mission. The villagers were good and lots of evangelization work was being done. Fr. Joseph Sahayanathan took up the challenge to take up the mission and built a grotto of our lady. The whole mission was closed after some time.

The bishop, Most Rev. RaphyManjaly, then decided to give the portion of the land to the Friends of the Birds of Air for humanitarian works. Hence, the Mission was renamed as Ishmata Ashram, and was blessed by Bishop RaphyManjaly on 8 December, 2017.

Established	:	1968
Patron	:	St. Peter
Address	:	St. Peter’s Church, Akbarpur, Ambedkar nagar Distt – 224 122
Telephone	:	05271-246941
Religious	:	Sisters of St. Francis of Dillingen (OSF)

A Brief History

It was in December 1968 that Bishop R. D’Mello, the then Bishop of Allahabad heard that the mission compound in Akbarpur was for sale. Bishop R. D’Mello negotiated with the authorities concerned and purchased the mission compound. Bro. Pascal a veteran missionary and a practicing doctor who was good both in allopathic and homeopathy medicines was sent there who cured a paralytic woman after the futile medication from various hospitals, which became sensational event that made the people to say that a great doctor had come to the mission. Unfortunately, within six months he was transferred to Lapta Mission in Sultanpur District.

In the month of July 1969, Bro. Innocent and Fr. D. Kamath were asked to go to Akbarpur. In 1979 Bishop B. Mudartha invited religious sisters “Maids of the Poor” from Barabanki to run a technical school for the girls. Initially there were three sisters and there were 15 typewriters and 12 sewing machines. Together with typing and tailoring classes, girls and women were given lessons in hygiene and child keeping. In 1980 the church building which had tiled roof and was in a bad condition was repaired and a slab roof was put, making the church worthy of God’s house and a landmark in the city of Akbarpur.

Due to a fatal accident in 2000 in which two Maids of the Poor Sisters lost their lives, the Society –M.O.P. decided to close the convent at Akbarpur, after which Sisters of St. Francis of Dilligen (OSF) came to Akbarpur in 2001.

Name of the Priest	Tenure
Fr. Dayanand Kamath	1969 to 1981
Fr. Ignatius D’Souza	1981 to 1983
Fr. Ambrose D’Souza	1983 to 1985
Fr. Denis D’Souza	July 1985 to June 1986
Fr. Joseph Mascarenhas	July 1986 to June 1990
Fr. Henry Suares	July 1990 to June 1997
Fr. Gregory D’Souza	July 1997 to 10 October 2001
Fr. John Lobo	11 October 2001 to June 2007
Fr. John Louis D’Souza	July 2007 to June 2014
Fr. Archibald D’Silva	July 2014 - to date

Established	:	1879
Patron	:	St. Joseph
Address	:	St. Joseph’s Cathedral, 32 Thornhill Road, Allahabad – 211 002
Phone	:	0532 - 2407801
Religious	:	Congregation of Jesus (CJ), Canossian Daughters of Charity (FDCC), Ursuline Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History

The foundation stone of the present Cathedral Church was laid on September 3, 1871 and was solemnly blessed by Rt. Rev. Dr. Pesci on February 11, 1879 and was dedicated to Saint Joseph.

Many improvements were made as the years rolled by. In the year 1905 the present clock was installed in the tower Bishop A. Poli wrote, “To augment the material Glory of the Mother Church of Diocese.” In preparation for the Golden jubilee of its erection on May 25, 1934 a pneumatic Organ, a new and beautiful set of the stations of the Cross, an impressive and artistic Bishop’s throne, stalls in the Sanctuary were installed, Moreover three monumental statues in the of Christ our Redeemer, Apostles Peter and Paul and of St. Francis of Assisi decorate the façade of the Cathedral. Within the years beside other embellishments a beautiful Calvary ‘La Pieta’ was placed inside the Cathedral entrance, on the left corner. A telescopic Ladder to clean the roof was added to the other articles mentioned above.

A priest-house was built in 1884 and Bishop’s House was erected in 1894. And finally “Priests Annexe” was built in 1956 and was renovated in 2009 under the leadership of Fr. Apolin Lobo

Established	:	1995/2003
Patron	:	Mary, Mother of God
Address	:	St. Mary’s Church, 87/B Muirabad, Allahabad – 211 002
Phone	:	0532 - 2440750
Religious	:	Congregation of Sisters of Nazareth (CSN), Missionaries of Charity (MC)

A Brief History

This was a part of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad till June 1995; but it has been made a separate unit with Rev. Fr. AvelineD’Silva as Priest In charge. The Residence of the priest was called “JyotiNivas” adjacent to the ShishuBhavan. Initially, the Mass was being offered in the Chapel of the Sisters of the Missionaries of Charity. Later in 2003, considering the growing number of Catholics, a new Church was built in a lane opposite the St. Peter’s Church CNI, which is named as St. Mary’s Church. CSN Sisters and MC sisters assist the parish priest in his pastoral, spiritual, social and all other activities of the Parish with regular visit to the parishioners. St. Mary’s Nursery School is run on the first floor of the Church.

Established	:
Patron	:	St. John Bosco
Address	:	St. John Bosco Church, Near Bethany School, Naini, Allahabad – 211 008
Phone	:	0532- 2697865
Religious	:	Bethany Sisters (BS)

A Brief History

St. John Bosco Church is situated in the industrial area of Naini, beyond the Yamuna River. It is situated at the left-side of Mirzapur Road towards Mirzapur and is almost 500 metres away from the Naini Central Jail, and almost two and a half kilometers from both the old and new Yamuna Bridge.

The Church had a humble beginning. In the words of Rt. Rev. Baptist Mudartha, the former Bishop of Allahabad, “We saw a piece of land-one acre and a little more, well situated, almost in the centre of the present Naini. The owner asked Rs. 30,000 per acre. We were startled at the rate. It was too much for the then prevailing land rate.”

“Fr. Alva sent his men here and there and agreed to buy the plot on which the present Church, School and Convent are standing. It was a brick kiln area. The whole plot was negotiated for a little over Rs. 60,000. The locality was dangerous one; so the owner came at night to take the money, and finally the land was registered and things began to move.”

The boundary wall, a few class rooms and the Church building was started in 1965 by Rev. Fr Paul Menezes, who was sent as a resident priest by Rt. Rev. Raymond D’Mello, the then Bishop of Allahabad. The Congregation of Little Flower of Bethany from Mangalore was contacted and invited to open an English Medium School here in the same year.

The Silver Jubilee of the Church was celebrated in 1990-91 with lots of activities. The golden jubilee of the Church is slated for 2015-16 and hope it will be a memorable experience to the parish priest and the parishioners.

The flock of St. John Bosco Church is a mixed one. There are a few Adivasi families, a few from Bettiah, some from Kerala and some are local Catholics. Though it is a mixed flock, there is family spirit among them. Catholics are united and the Church activities are done by the Parish Priest and the Pastoral Council members as a united effort. The Church building is not large enough to contain all the Catholics on Sundays and other feast days. It is very sad to see people outside the Church during the Mass.

There are about 85 Catholic families in the Church and some are pulled towards ‘YesuDarbar’ and  some have their affinity to the CNI Church to which they belonged earlier. But most of the families are faithful to their Sunday obligation and duties as Christians.

The Bethany Convent Higher Secondary School is affiliated to CBSE Board of Education and has all the infra-structure for a good school. The Bethany Sisters have no stone unturned to make the school nationally renowned.

Jan Hit Sadan, the Diocesan Development and Welfare Society head quarter is also situated in the Campus and looks after the social work in the diocese. Once what was called SethukaranSansthan is today named as Jan Hit Sadan.

SHIATS (Sam Higgin Bottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences) is situated about 3 kms away. There are Catholic students both residing in the hostels or private houses. Their spiritual well-eing is looked after at present by the Priest in charge of St. Joseph’s Misson, SadwaKalan, a developing station situated about 4 kms from Naini. SHIATS students were also taken care of by St. John Bosco Church, Naini for a number of years.

The following feasts are celebrated in a family spirit, usually with a fellowship meal after the service.

• Solemnity of Christmas – 25th December
• Holy Family Feast as Parish Family Day
• Easter Milan – after the mid-night Mass
• Parish Patron Saint Feast – Sunday after or before 31st January.

The parish is divided into four areas and each area has its Patron Saint whose feast is celebrated as area feast usually on a Sunday and the area people themselves arrange that day’s liturgy and a light meal after the service for all. The four areas are:

• St. Alphonsa’s Area –  July 28 (Feast)
• St. Francis Assisi Area – October 4 (Feast)
• St. Francis Xavier Area – December 3 (Feast)
• St. John De Britto Area – February 4 (Feast)

Parish Priests till Date:

	Rev. Fr. Faustin Alva (Negotiated and Purchased Land)
July 1965 – June 1970	Rev. Fr. Paul Menezes(First Residential Priest)
July 1970 – June 1975	Rev. Fr. Lawrence Kurien
July 1975 – Dec 1976	Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues
Jan 1977 – June 1978	Rev. Fr. Lawrence Kurien
July 1978 – June 1989	Rev. Fr. George D’Souza
July 1989 – June 1994	Rev. Fr. Denis D’Souza
July 1994 – June 1995	Rev. Fr. Charles D’Almeida
July 1995 – June 2000	Rev. Fr. Stephen Coutinha
July 2000 – June 2007	Rev. Fr. Ambrose D’Souza
July 2007 – June 2010	Rev. Fr. Denis D’Souza
July 2010 – June 2014	Rev. Fr. Stany Wilfred D’Souza
July 2014 – to date	Rev. Fr. Baptist Castelino

Co-pastors:

1. Rev. Fr. Xavier Lobo
2. Rev. Fr. Henry Soares
3. Rev. Fr. George Rebeiro
4. Rev. Fr. Leo Sequeira
5. Rev. Fr. AvelinD’Silva
6. Rev. Fr. Charles D’Almeida

Established	:	1931
Patron	:	St. Patrick
Address	:	St. Patrick’s Church, Near Water Tank, Kanpur Road, Allahabad – 211 001
Phone	:	0532 – 2560213
Religious	:	Nil

A Brief History

In the year 1880 a Chapel was built for the troops and dedicated to the Hoy Cross. In the course of years those who worked in the Railways too joined and the number increased. Thus the need for a bigger Church was felt and Rev. Fr. Joseph Caroll, OFM cap. And later Rev. Pascal Sinhalaboured hard for the church; and in1931 Bishop A. Pole blessed the NewChurch erected on the grounds leased by the Military Authorities. This Church is dedicated to St. Patrick. Its expenses were defrayed partly by the funds collected from the faithful and partly by his Lordship. It is situated on Kanpur Road, opposite to Garrison Office.

When the late Rev. Fr. CajetanSaldanha was the Parish Priest, he stayed in one part of the Church till the Priest House was built along with a Parish Hall, which is at present the St. Patrick’s Nursery School with about 100 pupils.

Established	:	1954
Patron	:	Mary, Queen of the Apostles
Address	:	Queen of the Apostles’ Church, 28-B Chatham Lines, Ranipur, Allahabad – 211 002
Telephone	:	0532 - 2544606
Religious	:	Society of Jesus (SJ), Society of St. Paul (SSP)

A Brief History

On July 2, 1924 Franciscan Missionary Brothers came to Allahabad and took residence amidst several villages near Chatham Lines. This place was and is called Bhagara. After some time the mission was closed and only a catechist was sent there to give medicines under Parish Priest of Allahabad.

In January 1932 Bishop A. Poli sent Rev. Fr. Pascal Sinha who was teaching in the Seminary, to this place. He was the first resident Priest of the place. A chapel was built in 1931 and the place was called Fidelispur.

Fr. Sinha was replaced by Rev.Fr. Leonard Pereira in 1933. Villages were visited and medicines were given and a small school was opened. Fr. Pereira opened an IndustrialSchool. In1938 on the transfer of Rev. Fr. C. Mascarenhas this place became a visiting station.

In the year 1939 the late Rev. Fr. Alphonso Ferrero, SSP opened the first house of Society of St Paul I this place. After the internment of Fr. Ferrero this place became a visiting station for the second time for the Fathers from St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad.

In 1952, St. Paul’s press was established and also the new residence was built. Later on, in the year 1954 a Church was built under the patronage of Mary, Queen of the Apostles and the name of Fidelispur was changed into Ranipur.

Established	:	1981
Patron	:	St. Francis of Assisi
Address	:	St. Francis of Assisi Church, ATP Colony, Anpara P.O, Sonebhadra Dt - 231225
Telephone	:	05446-273358
Religious	:	Canossian Daughters of Charity (FDCC)

A Brief History

Uttar Pradesh State Electricity Board (UPSEB), now known as Uttar Pradesh Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (UPRVUNL) had erected a new Thermal Power project in Anpara, with Japanese collaboration in the neighborhood of the Renusagar Power Station of Hindalco. Renusagar was already a visiting station for the Priest from Renukoot, with some floating catholic families. The UPSEB organization approached the Diocese of Allahabad through Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto, who was then the Parish Priest of Renukoot to begin an English Medium school, affiliated to CBSE Board, to cater to the educational needs of the wards of UPSEB employees. So, UPSEB made an agreement with the diocese of Allahabad to provide a rent free school building and a church to take care of the spiritual needs of the catholic population living in Anpara, Renusagar, Beena and other nearby villages and also for a convent to help out in the school as well in the parish activities. Villages around this place were already visited by Rev. Fr. Bader and his religious brothers when they visited Singrauli (present Shaktinagar). On account of the Rihand Dam all the villages were submerged and people were shifted and this is how they settled around Anpara.

When Diocese agreed to open the School, four rooms on the road side near Auri Morh were given by the plant, for the mission to start the School in 1981. Rev. Fr. Scaria was the first Priest to stay there till the School building was ready at Anpara in the township of the Power House. The present church building was provided to us in the year 1995 with the help of Engineer S. P. Singh, the then Chief General Manager of the Plant. Parish has almost 550 floating Catholics in 120 families from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Mangalore, Jharkhand and some local Catholics. They live at Bina, Kakhri, Rehta, Renusagar, ATP colony and also in Lal tower Dera & Alexander Dera. Canossian sisters are also rendering their services in the parish.

Presently parish is divided in to four zones; viz., Anpara Zone, Beena Zone, Renusagar,  Kakhri & Rehta Zone, & Lal Tower Zone.

People are mainly working in Northern Coal mines, Hindalco Power Plant, and also in Uttar Pradesh State Electricity Board. Most of them work as daily laborers in the plant. Though ours is a floating community, people are very active, co-operative and God fearing parish community. They take keen interest in all the church activities. Hence we feel very happy to give our best to bring up our parish family.

Parish Priests

Fr. Scaria	19/08/1981 to 30/4/1984
Fr. Mark D’Souza	01/05/1984 to 30/6/1990
Fr. John Lobo	01/07/1990 to 30/9/2001
Fr. William Mathias	01/10/2001 to 30/6/2007
Fr. Michael D’Souza	01/07/2007 to 28/1/2008
Fr. Vincent Pereira	(Caretaker after the demise of Fr. Michael)
Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza	01/04/2008 to 2015
Fr. Baptist D’Souza	2015 – to date

Established	:	1976
Patron	:	Christ, the Light of the World
Address	:	KhristJyoti Ashram, Asnabandh, Kachnarwa P.O. Wyndamganj Sonebhadra Dt – 232 221
Telephone	:	05447 - 283214
Religious	:	Daughters of St. Anne (DSA)

A Brief History

During the study of Evangelization in U.P. held in Lucknow, late Bishop Saupin of DaltonGanj Diocese mentioned to Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto that he would invade our Diocese for the conversion of the relatives of the Adivasi families in Asnabandh as these were related to the converts of Gumla. Fr. E. Pinto mentioned this fact to the late Bishop Alfred Fernandes and offered himself to make a thrust in Asnabandh. He was sent to Renukoot in 1974.He started to visit this area. Only the Adivasis are allowed to buy land; and when the sisters of St. Anne (DSA) came to help, being Adivasis the land was bought in their name. In 1976 a mud house was built.

Established	:	1784/2012
Patron	:	St. Thomas
Address	:	St. Thomas Church, Lower Lines, Chunar P.O., Mirzapur Dt - 231 304
Telephone	:	05443-222435
Religious	:	Congregation of Jesus (CJ)

A Brief History

St. Thomas Church is situated in the Tehsil of Chunar, in Mirzapur district in Uttar Pradesh (U.P) India.  Chunar is a small township on the bank of the River Ganga to the southwest of Banares (Varanasi).  It is a place of religious and historical importance and has one of the oldest forts of India built in 56 B.C. 

Chunar is one of the oldest mission stations in the whole of North India.  It is listed among the only six parishes/mission stations in the whole of north India in the 17th century the others being Patna, Bettia, Lucknow, Agra and Delhi.  It was one of the few stations, which had the privilege of being visited by one of the great missionaries venerable late Bishop Hartmann.  Chunar has one of the oldest cemeteries in India with its beautiful marble statues, monuments and remains as beautiful memorial of the past.  It has the tombstones dating back to 1726.

According to the written record in the book History of a Mission with a Vision by Bro. Melchior and companions and published at the occasion of the Centenary Jubilee of Franciscan Missionary Brothers in the year 2002, the Catholic presence at Chunar dates back to the beginning of 18th century.  “On 10th March, 1785, Fr. Joseph of Rovato, the Prefect, writing to the Prefect of Propaganda, tells him that he had sent Fr. Peter dale Fratte, a missionary of the 24th expedition, who had arrived in India on 31st October 1784 to Chunar, where the wife of the Officer Commanding was a Catholic and had asked for a resident priest to minister to the Catholics of the place. Fr. Peter, however, remained in Chunar only for a few months owing to illness. Fr. Joseph of St. Marcello replaced him.

Chunar was without a Church and a parochial house all these years.  It was on 5th November 1793 that Fr. Juvenalis purchased a small bungalow together with the ground and the adjoining areas, for a sum of Rs. 150/-, in the name of Patna Mission. He built a chapel and set aside a piece of land as burial ground for the Christians” (cf: page 480).

Another record says that there were two Chapels built before Fr. Marcellenus of Ancona, the Chaplain of Ghazipur and Chunar, built a new CHURCH which was consecrated and dedicated to St. Finbar by Bishop A. Hartmann on Sunday, 22nd October 1848.  Among these two chapels one was built by Rev. Fr. Juvenalis in 1793 and the other was built by Rev. Fr. Gregory Mary de Bene and was dedicated to the Sacred Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary on 8th August 1838 (cf: plaque of the Chapel preserved in St. Finbar’s Church).

Chunar was primarily a military base.  With the abandonment of Chunar by the troops in the middle of 19th century, its importance diminished and with it the life in the Church as most of the Catholics were military men.  According to the Catholic Calendar and Directory of 1896, Chunar was only visited by a priest from Banares (part of the Diocese of Allahabad then) and had only 38 Catholics.

In 1927 Bishop Angelo Poli sent late Fr. A. Bader (who died in Germany in 1983) and his brothers of The Society of the Queen of the Apostles of Austria for the purpose of evangelizing the area.  Subsequently, in 1934, the Indian Nuns of the Third Order of St. Francis established a convent there and visited Ahraura, Mirzapur and Robertsganj.  Till January 1935 they were in charge of Robertsganj as an independent station.  But nothing much was done in Chunar due to unsuitable conditions.  One of the main reasons was Chunar being on the river bank often there were devastating floods submerging the whole area and the Church.   In 1975 the flood waters submerged the Church up to eight feet.  The Church could not be used in the course of time on account of the floods.  The Church was shifted to the Priest-house that too in course of time was used as a school in1940.

Being the oldest Mission Station of the Diocese of Allahabad the Bishops wanted to keep the light of faith shining bright at Chunar.  Thus, braving all the odds the missionary activities continued in Chunar. Thus, in 1980 Rt. Rev. Baptist Mudartha built a new school building for the quality education of the poor and also a presbytery as priest’s residence under the supervision of Late Frs.Aveline Lewis and Francis Pereira. The IBMV sisters, presently known as Congregation of Jesus (CJ), joined in 1983 on 21st June to help in the School administration and pastoral work.  In 2000 Late Rev. Fr. Henry Suares built a hospital for the care of the sick which was also administered by the sisters.

With the passage of time the Chunar Mission has grown from strength to strength under the dynamic leadership of Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, through efficient, committed and hard working managers to date.   Today, on account of the determined and dedicated hard work of Rev. Fr. Walter D’ Silva, the manager, the School is upgraded from Junior High School to St. Thomas Inter College and has 936 students.His hard work yielded in the form of having repossession the property of the Church.

Moreover, Chunar has a gorgeous and spacious new Church dedicated to St. Thomas (the Apostle) as the Bicentenary Jubilee memorial, after almost 72 years of abandonment of the previous one due to dilapidated conditions on account of constant floods.  It also has the newly built Intermediate block and a renovated presbytery with 4 additional rooms.  All the three were blessed and inaugurated on 10th November 2012, by Rt. Rev. Dr. Isidore Fernandes, the bishop of the diocese of Allahabad, at the occasion of the Bicentenary Jubilee of the Church. 

Established	:	1944
Patron	:	Our Lady of Assumption
Address	:	Assumption Church, Badauli, Dostpur, Tehasil Kadipur, District Sultanpur – 228 131 U. P.
Telephone	:	05364-242506
Religious	:	Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM)

A Brief History

Dostpur is an ancient village situated at the eastern end of Sultanpur District, 150 km. away from Allahabad, a famous Hindu pilgrimage city, near the confluence of two holy rivers of India:  the Ganga and Yamuna.  Ayodhya, another important pilgrimage centre for Hindus, who believe it to be the birthplace of their deity, Lord Rama, is 80 km. away from Dostpur. In spite of its proximity to several holy places of the Hindus, this village is a Muslim stronghold.  Within the radius of ten miles of Dostpur there were a hundred villages, forty five of which were inhabited by Harijans. Each village was grouped according to caste. The joint family system was prevalent.  One long standing tradition of these people was the custom of child marriage.  Today education has brought major changes. The villagers usually called Dostpur “Chawni”, which means cantonment. The Hindu name Dostpur means the Home of Friends or people of good will.

The people of Dostpur had never heard the Gospel of Christ until around the year 1944, two Canadian Capuchin Missionaries, Fr. Raymond and a Brother, made their first appearance among these people.  A little later, two German Missionary Brothers of St. Francis of Assisi (CMSF) arrived at Dostpur from Bombay. These two groups of missionaries rented two mud houses close to the present Police Thana and divided the new mission field between them.  The people were suspicious and hostile, and at the end of two years only two families had become Christians. The Canadian Capuchin Missionaries were working till the division in 1947. The mission remained closed for a year.  Nanku a catechist from Dostpur requested Mgr. Raymond D’Mello, then the V.G. of the Diocese to send missionaries and start the mission again. On his request V.G. approached Bishop Leonard Raymond. Two indigenous priests Rev. Frs. Joseph D’Souza and Lawrence Kurien were sent by Dr. L. Raymond, the then bishop of Allahabad, they took up the challenge and lived in a small room in the bazaar. The missionaries had no residence, but in 1949 they acquired four acres of land and set to work to build a chapel and a presbytery with the help of Rev. Fr. Anthony Pinto, the place where the mission is today. Later on some more land was purchased to support and sustain the mission. The people began to come to the new chapel and accept instruction in the faith. Since the villages were very far from the Church, Catechists were employed to visit the villages such as Dullapur, Pahadpur, Kisunipur. Sahangia, Banua, Badauli, Ahlade, Akhandnagar, Masuran, Kunda Bhairopur, Pratapur, Passiapara, Rasulpur, Dihava, Budane, Saraia, Gangapur, Bethra, Narsingpur, Narainpur, Madanpur, Dharmapur, Kalispur, Jalalpur, Kyathi Jalalpur, Golanpara, Biraipur, Pherai, Kallianpur, Bhojpur etc. to instruct the locals. 

In 1950 regular Sunday Service was held and catechism classes started functioning.  In the same year Primary School was opened for the local boys. In the year 1956 Sisters of Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) came to Dostpur to assist the Parish in pastoral, social, health and educational activities. In spite of difficulties and opposition the missionary activities at Dostpur increased and the mission property expanded, mostly wasteland which the mission was trying to bring under cultivation. In 1977 Maria Nagar and Mariampur basti (Colony) were formed. In 1977 eight convert families in Mariampur basti were given 6 bigas of land each as a reward for their faithfulness and the land was registered in their name at the cost of the diocese.   Unfortunately today two of them have given up their catholic faith. In Maria Nagar four families were given land to cultivate for themselves. A carpentry school was started to train young boys in Maria Nagar basti which is now closed due to unknown reason.

Later in the year 1981 a beautiful Church and Priest house was built and blessed by Rt. Rev. Baptist Mudartha, the then Bishop of Allahabad. A boarding house for boys was also constructed and it was blessed by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes on 22 April 1994.  A plot of land was set aside for cemetery.  Boundary wall was built to protect it from encroachment in 2009.  Today there are twenty five practicing catholic families in the Mission.

The renovation of the Church began in 2017 under the supervision of Rev. Fr. Stephen Joy Rodrigues and Rev. Fr. Archibald D’Silva from Akbarpur.

Parish Mission Team (Proclamation Team) was formed on 5th December 2010

Activities of the Mission:

The Priests, Sisters and Mission team members visit the families and villages, hold prayer meetings, conduct Rosary, break the Word of God and administer sacraments to strengthen the faithful in catholic faith. Every Friday two hours adoration, praise and worship, intercessory prayers are conducted by the mission team. Second Friday of every month we have whole night adoration, praise and worship and intercessory prayers. Every Sunday half an hour benediction before mass. Once a month Mission team members meet to evaluate the activities. Parish council and youth team are very active in the Parish. Youth and children are encouraged to go for confessions every month. For this purpose first Saturday of every month is set aside. Catechism classes are held on every Saturday after the school gives over. Special instructions are also given on Sundays for those preparing for Sacraments, such as First Holy Communion, Confirmation and adult catechism. One coordinator, Supervisor and four animators are set apart to visit the villages for social work. Awareness on education, health, legal aid and literacy has been given. As a result we have formed hundred self help groups (SHGs) in 20 villages consisting of women and men from below poverty line. These groups take up issues and problems of their village and also do the saving in their day to day life. They are taught to take income generating activities. The Mission runs a formal School for the villagers up to class 10 – (High School). Main stress is given to the integrated development of the students. We also run Nav Jeevan Bal Newas Boarding house for poor boys.

Priests who Served in Dostpur:

Parish Priests

Fr. Raymond OFM Cap	1946-1947
Fr. Joseph D’Souza	1947-1953
Fr. Paul Menezes	1953 – (?)
Fr. Dayanand Kamath	1976-1978
Fr. William D’Souza	1978-1986
Fr. Ambrose DeSouza	1986-1988
Fr. Thomas Serrao	1988-1992
Fr. Vincent Cornelio	1992-2000
Fr. Aveline Lewis	2000-2001
Fr. Baptist D’Souza	2002-2007
Fr. Valerian D’Souza	2007-2015
Fr. Joseph Sagayanathan	2015-2017
Fr. Stephen Joy Rodrigues	2017 – to date

Assistant Parish Priests:

Fr. Lawrence Kurian	1947-1949
Fr. Anthony Pinto	1949 - (?)
Fr. Vijayanand	(Substitute Asst. P.P)
Fr. Aveline D’Silva	(?)
Fr. Benedict Pereira	1961-1962
Fr. Dayanand Kamath	1964-1965; 1967-1968
Fr. Henry Suares	1972-1973
Fr. J.B. Castelino	1976-1977
Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas	1978-1981
Fr. Ambrose DeSouza	1981-1983
Fr. Kevin Pradhan	1983-1984
Fr. Damien Gomes	1984-1986
Fr. Gregory D’Souza	1986-1987
Fr. William Mathias	1987-1990
Fr. Rolfie D’souza	1991-1993
Fr. J. B. Fernandes	1993-1995
Fr. Alfred George	1995-1997
Fr. Herald Tauro	1997-1998
Fr. Rajesh Simon	1998-2000
Fr. Maria Selvaraj	2000-2001
Fr. Wilson Cornelio	2001-2003
Fr. Sunil Noronha	2003-2005
Fr. Titus Lobo	2005-2007
Fr. Prabhunath	2007-2009
Fr. Anand John	2009-2012
Fr. Ignatius Kujur	2012-2014
Fr. Stephen Joy Rodrigues	2015-2017
Fr. George Medepalli	2017 – to date

Established	:
Patron	:	Our Lady of Graces
Address	:	Kripaon Ki Mata Mission, Station Road, Dudhi – 231 208
Phone	:	05447 - 222372
Religious	:	Franciscan Sisters of St. Aloysius Gonzaga

A Brief History

 

Established	:	1862
Patron	:	Mother Mary
Address	:	St. Mary’s Church, 31 Cantonment, Faizabad – 224 001
Telephone	:	05278 - 221075
Religious	:	Canossian Daughters of Charity (FDCC)

A Brief History

St. Mary's church Faizabad situated on the bank of river Saryu, north of Allahabad is one of the oldest churches in the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allahabad opened for the British Troops. We do not have anything before 1861 in the archives of the church except there are some entries in the cemetery register including a Catholic Chaplain but difficult to trace the graves. In 1861 it was separated from the Vicariate of Agra and annexed to Allahabad which is quite clear in the directory of Roman Catholic Diocese of Allahabad in 1912. In 1862 its foundation stone was laid by Rt. Rev. Bishop A. Hartmann and a few years later it was blessed and dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. At that time the number of the Catholics was 135, of whom 102 were Anglo-Indians and 33 Indians.

Rev. Fr. Cajetan Boccaccio an Irish missionary was the first parish priest who stayed in this church till the end of his life for almost 38 years. At that time the first Bishops of Allahabad Diocese Rt. Rev. Dr. Francis Pesci, Rt. Rev. Dr. Charles Gentili and Rt. Rev. Victor Sinibaldi also visited and participated in the church activities. Due to poor conveyances, arrival of Bishops was a great event in the Church. The number of the families were 63 and all were Anglo-Indians. There wasn't any proper House for the Priests. They used to stay together with military officials.

After Fr. C. Boccaccio in 1901 Fr. Francis, Fr. Alexander and Fr. Gabriel looked after the church for 6 months each In 1902 Fr. Cherubim took charge of the church. He rendered his service for 4 years.Inhis time Catholics visited nearby places like Jaunpur and Pratapgarh Later Fr. Saverian. Fr. Henry and Fr. Francis stayed here from 1907 to 1913. In 1947 Rt. Rev. Bishop Petronius visited the church. In 1913, Fr. Lawrence under look the responsibility of this church and committed 3 years of his life for it. Who can forget the period of 1914 as this was the time of the First World War and many soldiers of this church had given their valuable contribution. After the end of the World War in 1917, Fr. Francis Mary worked hard selflessly for 6 years to strengthen the faith of the Catholics and their families Later on, Fr. Cosmos continued the humble services of Fr. Francis Mary from 1923 to 1932 . Further from 1931 to 1943, Fr. Go-Hens, Fr. Anthony, Fr. Bartholowmeo, Fr. Paul and Fr. Andrew Capechino devoted their services. In 1937 the presbytery was built and blessed by the Bishop. In 1943 the boundary wall of this church was raised by the then parish priest Fr. Bernard who toiled day and night for the internal security of the church by collecting the funds from Diocese of Dublin and Rome.
In 1946, Fr. Francis Pillay the first diocesan priest became the Parish Priest. Meanwhile Rev. Bishop Angelo Poli, the 5th Bishop of our Diocese visited during his tenure and asked the Parish Priest to renew the lease papers. Looking at the decreasing number of Catholics and to keep himself busy Fr. Pillay presented the wise and appreciable proposal of opening a school with Bishop Angelo Poli, as a result of which St. Mary's school was founded and dedicated to Mother Mary. Together with this in 1947, Fr. Pillay was also appointed as a Religious preacher in the Railways. Subsequently the tribal population gave their presence in the church. In 1956, Fr. Steven, a very dynamic priest took over the responsibility of the church and school and prepared for the centenary celebration. Meanwhile in 1961, the centenary celebration of this church took place at a grand scale. The church was painted in different colours. In 1959, St. Mary's community rejoiced when Canossian Daughters of Charity a Religious association founded by St. Magdalen arrived with 3 sisters to Faizabad.

From 1964 to 1986, Fr. George Desouza, Fr. A. Mendonca, Fr. Stanley Mascarenhas and Fr. Stanny, Fr. Germaine Desouza rendered their precious service for this church. In 1971 the Garrison Cemetery was handed over to Roman Catholic Church and Church of North India for its upkeep and maintenance. The Church is grateful to 2 of its members Mr. George Reneaux and Mr. Alfred Donald Carter for their committed efforts in this regard. Today Mr. Cecil and Dr. Charles are members of the Cemetery Board. In between Rev. Bishop Alfred Fernandez visited the church. On 1st July 1986 Fr. Michael Martin took over as the parish priest who could walk even at midnight freely around the campus. In his 6 years stay at Faizabad he constructed additional school buildings and classes till 8th standard. In 1993, an enthusiastic and visionary priest Fr. Aveline Lewis arrived and did a lot of alterations and reconstruction of the church, school building and the parish house. He was a very diligent and prayerful person so people remember him as a simple person any time they could knock his door for help. His contribution to the church and school will never be forgotten. He celebrated the golden jubilee of the school.

In 1999 a young, energetic Fr. John Louis D'Souza took over as the Parish Priest. During his 8 years tenure he obtained recognition of high school classes so that the students could obtain education right from Nursery to class 10. For the spiritual development, he beautifully organized the family prayers and rosary etc. It was conducted from house to house by Parishioners themselves. He also rendered service for the poor and needy village children. He gave them a chance to get education in the school. He arranged many cultural, educational programmes and activities with a new zeal and enthusiasm. It was a great occasion when he celebrated his priestly silver jubilee.

In 2007 Fr. Baptist D'Souza a charismatic and revolutionary leader, built strong relationship between the members of cantonment board and civil officers. In the very beginning for the security of the campus he raised the boundary wall and gave a strong protection to the compound. Due to the decline of the CNI Church in Faizabad there was a resurgence of new churches in Faizabad. To resolve the incumbency and confusion he organized many Common Christian Programmes. They came together for carol singing, candle light procession etc. and people were invited from different denominations. He got the cemetery wall built and cemetery was in a much better condition than any time before. In 2009 Canossian Sisters celebrated their golden jubilee of their arrival in Faizabad. He also started English medium section in the school and set the Church for the sesquicentennial Jubilee Celebration. In the year 2011, Fr. Anil Michael arrived. On 13th November 2011, Bishop Isidore Fernandes inaugurated the jubilee year with Fr. Anil Michael, Parish Priest and Fr. Stephen Manoj as assistant. On this occasion we are highly indebted to the valuable and selfless contribution put forth by all the Rev. Bishops, Rev. Priests, Canossian Sisters and laity of the St. Mary's Church, Faizabad.

Presently, Rev. Fr. Damein Gomes and Rev. Fr. Ravi Joseph work tirelessly for the spiritual growth of the people under their care.

Established	:	1980
Patron	:	St. John, the Evangelizer
Address	:	St. John’s Church, Banda Road, Near District Jail, Fatehpur - 212601
Telephone	:	05180 -228292
Religious	:	Congregation of Jesus (CJ)

A Brief History

St. John’s Church, formerly known as SnehNiketan Catholic Mission was situated at 92 Patel Nagar, Fatehpur. The late Rev. Fr. Joseph D’souza was the first priest to visit this place. Due to a call from Dostpur village, the place which he had already visited had to be given up.

St. John’s Mission, Fatehpur had a challenging beginning. It was on 15 the Nov,  1980  Rev. Fr. Edward Goveas  along with Fr. Denis D’Souza visited Biland Village, 8Kms away from Fatehpurat the instruction of Most Rev. Baptist Mudhartha the Bishop of Allahabad. Both Fr. Edward and Fr. Denis (Brother of Fr. Alex D’Souza) stayed in Biland village for one year. Thereafter they moved on to Fatehpur city where Dr. TejMansingh allotted them a place on rent. They began their mission by visiting the sick in the hospitals and visited families in Bindiki as well.   It was in the year 1984 the Congregation of Indian Missionary Society was asked to take care of Fatehpur Mission. On 24th Nov, 1984 Rev. Fr. MariadasIMS  became 1st IMS member to  arrive Fatehpur.He  stayed with Dr. TejMansinghfor 2 years. Fr. Dayanand IMS took over the reins from Fr. Mariadass  in July 1986.  In June 1987 a small plot was purchased by the members of IMS from Mr. Babu Charles. And that is how SnehNiketan Mission   came into existence. Holy Mass was offered for the people of God in the small room in snehaniketan. There were 4 families and a few nurses from kerala working in the local hospital. Rev. Fr. Anand also joined Fr. Dayanand in serving the people of Fatehpur. In July 1989 Rev. Fr. ArvindarrivedFatehpur and served the people of God in Fatehpur mission. He rendered his dedicated service to the people of Fatehpur until 1st July, 1995. Meantime Fr. Sudeep also was here from July 1991 to July 1992.

A new chapter in the history of Fatehpur mission began when Fr. Prem Anthony arrivedFatehpur on 9th July, 1993. On 23 July, 1993 almost 4 acre land was bought in the name of Allahabad Diocese Education Society and was registered. On 2nd July 1994, Fr.  Walter Santosh joined Rev. Fr. Prem and Fr. Arvind in Fatehpur. During the time of Fr. Prem IMS, Fatehpur mission has achieved important milestones. In the year 1997 Fr. Walter Santosh was made incharge of the mission. Rev. Fr. Amardeep came to Fatehpur to assist Fr. Santosh in the year 1997. On 22nd May, 2000 Fr. Santosh was transferred and Fr. Amardeep became the incharge of the mission. On 26thJuly, 2001 Fatehpur Mission was blessed because Rev. Sisters from IBMV congregation(presently CJ) came to serve Fatehpur mission and to render their service in the newly opened St John’s School at Jail Road. Sr. Fernanda, Sr. Beena, Sr, Joyce and SrSunitawere the first members. Since then the chapel was shifted to St. John’s school campus. On the 16th of February Bishop made his pastoral visit to Fatehpur and confirmed 18 adults. Meantime Fr. Raj Kumar joined to assist Fr. Amaranth.

On 13th July, 2006 Fr. Dhyanchand was welcomed to  Fatehpur as an incharge of the mission. FrDhyanchand remained only for 2 years in Fatehpur and handed over the responsibility of taking care of the mission station to Rev. Fr. Arvind IMS with effect from 20th January, 2008. On 3rd January, 2009 BhumiPujan was performed for the new church. Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes was the main celebrant. On 29th January, 2009 foundation Stone was laid for the new church building in St. John’s school campus, Near New Tehsil, Jail Road, Fatehpur during the pontificate of Pope Benedict the Sixteenth. Thanks to all the priests from IMS congregation who have taken utmost care in catechizing the faithful in Fatehpur by administering sacraments, through pastoral visits, and by organizing prayer meetings,  retreats in the families and in the church.

Another chapter in the history of Fatehpur mission began when Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes took over the mission from Indian Missionaries Society on 22nd June 2010.  The IMS handed over the station to the diocese as they built their own school along the main road, in Fatehpur.

Fr. VipinD’souza became the first diocesan priest incharge of Fatehpur Mission near Jail Road. He continued vigourously the good work began by the IMS priests. Thanks to all the sisters who have become part of this mission and whose continuous prayerful support has helped the miniature church of Fatehpur to grow tall.

At present, in 2013, the church has 16 active families, a dynamic parish council, devout altar servers’ association and energetic youth association and a charismatic prayer group of our youth. May the church in Fatehpur grow spiritually.

 

Established	:	1968
Address	:	Hartmann Mission, Hartmannganj, Phaphamau, Allahabad – 211 013
Phone	:	0532 - 2447183
Religious	:	Congregation of the Sisters of Nazareth (CSN)

A Brief History

This mission which dates back to November 1,1968 was named after the late Rt. Rev. Dr. A. Hartmann. It is about 13 kms away from Allahabad. Late Rt. Rev. Dr. Raymond D’Mello, the then Bishop of Allahabad, requested Rev. Fr. Philip Neri Noronha, at the time procurator of the Diocese, to visit this place, and build a Dispensary and a House for the aged Priests. But it was not possible to keep it as the house for the aged priests being at a distance from school. Rev. Fr. Lawrence Kurien, the first chaplain, converted it into a primary school. The sisters of Nazareth (CSN) were invited to take up the medical apostolate and visit the nearby villages in 1970. The first superior was Sr. Goretti, CSN.

The Hindi Medium primary school was closed in the year 2005 due to lack of students. However, when Rev. Fr. George Madathikudiyil became the priest incharge, he re-opened the school in 2010. But this time, it was an English Medium School, under the name – Bishop Hartmann Academy. Sr. Sangeetha CSN was the first Headmistress. The increase in the number of students made it mandatory to put up a building opposite to the priest’s house to facilitate the extension of classes. It was in December 2017, during the tenure of Rev. Fr. Edward Goveas, the foundation stone for the new school building was laid by Bishop RaphyManjaly.

In the year 2010, the first Minor Seminary of the diocese, St. Xavier’s Minor Seminary, saw its light in the priest house, with a few interior alterations. Rev. Fr. Isidore D’Souza and Rev. Fr. Francis Joseph D’Souza guided the young boys into priestly training. In the 2011, the first floor of the hospital was used as the dormitory for the seminarians. However, due to increased number of seminarians, and lacking sufficient rooms for accommodation and a good intermediate college nearby, it was shifted to Pratapgarh in 2012.

Established	:	1959
Patron	:	St. Joseph
Address	:	St. Joseph’s Church, Guru Niwas, Jaffarganj P.O. AmbedkarnagarDt -
Telephone	:	05271 - 252355
Religious	:	Sisters of Helpers of Mary (SHM), CMSF Brothers

A Brief History

St Joseph’s Mission, Jaffarganj, was established in 1959 by Franciscan Missionary Brothers (CFMS) in the midst of a village near Jaffarganj Railway Station. Their main vision was to provide work for the neighboring villagers. Hence they established a model farm under the patronage of St. Joseph the worker. They also opened a school, now high school, as it was the need of the time. They invited some catholic families from different parts of the north India and settled them in a colony giving them the land for their livelihood which was called as St. Columban Colony. Initially there were only six families but later many families incubated in the colony. St. Joseph’s Boarding house for the poor boys of the neighbouring villages and of the RCD of Allahabad was established in 1970 which was later in 1995 closed down due to internal and external problems. In 1978 the sisters belonging to the society of Helpers of MARY were invited to run the dispensary and tailoring school. Hence, the Brothers were involved in Agricultural Farming, Hindi medium High School, Boarding for Boys and other social activities. This mission was served by the fathers residing in Akbarpur. Later, a presbytery was built and blessed by his Lordship Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes on July 10, 1995 and named Guru Niwas; Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas was appointed as the first Priest in charge of the place. Thereafter, Rev. Fr. Stany Wilfred D’Souza, Fr. Maria Selvaraj, Fr. Thomas Serrao, Fr. Prabhunath have rendered their services. Presently, Fr. Sunil Mascarenhas is energetically working to bring up the station.

Established	:	1996
Patron	:	Christ the King
Address	:	Christ the King Church, 2 UPSIDC Industrial Area, Jagadishpur – 227 809
Telephone	:	05361 – 270732
Religious	:	Franciscan Sisters of Dillingen (OSF)

A Brief History

This quasi town is about 70 Km from Sultanpur on the SultanpurLucknow highway. This area came into prominence as being close to a V.I.P. constituency-Amethi. To help this backward area Amethi many projects like BHEL, HAL, IndoGulf and Malvika Steel were started.

Naturally people flocked from other areas. On account of numerous representations, priests from Sultanpur started visiting this area on Sundays to offer Holy Mass for the Catholics. Fr. Eric Pinto was transferred in June 1994 to Sultanpur. He too visited Jagdishpur and with Bishop’s consent began to look for a place adjacent to Indo-Gulf industrial area. On request from local people Fr. Eric Pinto secured a plot of 10 acres. Within a short time a priest’s house and seven class rooms were built. Thus Christ the King Church and School came into existence in July 1996. In 1995 Fr. Eric Pinto invited the Daughters of St. Francis of Dillingen (OSF) sisters and they dedicate their service in the education and health ministry.  However they closed down the dispensary later.

Established	:	2004
Patron	:	St. Anthony of Padua
Address	:	St. Antony’s Church, 184-A/A Block, Near FCI Chandari, Kanpur – 208 004
Telephone	:	09307195377
Religious	:	Missionaries of Charity (MC)

A Brief History:

St.Anthony’s Church was blessed and inaugurated by His Lordship Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad on 26th September 2004. It was towards the end of 2002 Bishop Isidore encouraged Fr. Herald Tauro to look for a plot for the church at Sujatganj. After looking in several places for a plot at Shyamanagar, finally one place was found to be good for church and bishop bought a plot. Fr. Herald was appointed as priest incharge of St. Anthony’s church in July 2004.

Former Pastors:

Rev. Fr. Herald Tauro	2003 - 2007
Rev. Fr. Henry Suares	2007 - 2012
Rev. Fr. Sunil Noronha	2012 -2014
Rev. Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz	2014-2017
Rev. Fr. Valerian D’Souza	2017 – to date

 

Established	:	1947
Patron	:	St. Francis Xavier
Address	:	St. Francis Xavier Church, Ashoknagar, Kanpur – 208 012
Phone	:	0512 - 2551875
Religious	:	Apostolic Carmel (AC), Ursulines of Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History

St. Francis Xavier’s Church is situated in Ashoknagar, Kanpur. Till 1944 it was visited by the Canadian Fathers stationed at St. Patrick’s Church, Kanpur. They had a plan for a Church cum School. Rev. Fr. Andrew, OFM Cap., used to look after this area. He is the one who built the old Church to be used also as a School. Adjacent to the Church was the presbytery. The Canadian Capuchins went to Varanasi which later became a Diocese. Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues who was already helping at St. Patrick’s Cantt, was entrusted, with this new Parish in 1947. As the number of the faithful increased the need was felt for a bigger Church which would also be at the same time a memorial of the Golden Jubilee of the Parish. It is built on the first floor and the ground floor has about ten rooms, which serve as residence and guest house. The new Church was blessed by his Lordship Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes on Dec. 3, 1994.

The Ursuline Franciscan Sisters began collaborating in the Parish and School ministry from July 1991. However, they closed their community in 2002.

The Pastors who Served:

Rev. Fr. Andrew OFMC	1944 - 1947
Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues	1947 - 1949
Rev. Fr. Faustine Alva	1949 - 1957
Rev. Fr. Lawrence Kurian	1957 - 1965
Rev. Fr. CajetanSaldanha	1965 - 1970
Rev. Fr. Antony Pinto	1970 - 1975
Rev. Fr. Noel D’souza	1975 - 1980
Rev. Fr. John Lobo	1980 - 1984
Rev. Fr. Xavier Lobo	1984 - 1985
Rev. Fr. Levi D’Souza	1985 - 1992
Rev. William D’Souza	1992 – 2000
Rev. Fr. Victor Rodrigues	2000 – 2006
Rev. Fr. Alex D’Souza	2006 – 2014
Rev. Fr. Sebastian Francis	2014 – to date

Established	:	1952
Patron	:	St. Joseph the Worker
Address	:	St. Joseph’s Church, 368 N/2 Harjindernagar,Chakeri, Kanpur – 229 010
Telephone	:	0512-2401635
Religious	:	Ursuline Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History

It was the wisdom and foresight of Rev. Fr. B.J. Pereira that bought the little plot in which the church is now situated. In 1952 Rev. Fr. B. J. Pereira built the present recreational hall where holy mass was said every Sunday evening. And from 1955 to 1958 Rev. Fr. Alfred Mendonca and Rev. Fr. Philip Neri Noronha offered the holy mass in the same recreational hall alternatively on Sundays. The history also says that Rev. Fr. B. J. Pereira had also opened a primary school in the same campus which had to be closed in 1955 for the reasons unknown.

In 1965 St. Joseph convent was opened and from then onwards Sunday mass was celebrated there and also the masses on week days for the sisters.

On Sunday December 1st 1968, Most. Rev. Bp. Raymond D’Mello blessed the foundation stone for the present church building and it was inaugurated by him on Monday 8th September 1969. Rev. Fr. Alfred Mendonca served as a first parish priest from 1968 to 1975 together with Rev. Fr. Lawrence D’Mello. In 1975 Rev. Fr. John of the Cross took over as a parish Priest thereafter Rev. Fr. ShradhanandPrabhu,Rev. Fr. Antony Pinto and Rev. Fr. Kurian served the church faithfully. In 1981 Rev. Fr. Denis D’Souza who took over as a parish priest and in his time the Chakeri parish came to the live face of today. His work was enhanced by Rev. Fr. George D’Souza and Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas. Rev. Fr. CajetanSaldanha Fr. Ambrose and Rev. Fr. Scaria.Rev. Fr. Noel D’Souza also rendered his valuable services to the development of this parish. Thereafter in 1993 Rev. Fr. Victor Rodrigues took over as a parish priest and was assisted by Rev. Fr. Gregory D’Souza, Rev. Fr. J.B. Crasta. In the year 2000 Rev. Fr. Apolin Lobo succeed as a parish priest to Rev. Fr. Victor Rodrigues and assisted by Rev. Fr. HeroldTauro, Rev. Fr. Titus Lobo and Rev. Fr. Sunil Mascarenhas. In 2007,Rev. Fr. John lobo was appointed as a parish priest and was assisted by Rev. Fr. Sunil Mascarenhas, Rev. Fr. Ignatius Kujur and presently Rev. Fr. G.P.Dantis.Presently, Rev. Fr. Eugene Mascarenhas, the parish priest and Rev. Vikas Jason Mathias are catering to the spiritual needs of the people.

Established	:	1860
Patron	:	St. Patrick
Address	:	St. Patrick’s Church, 36 Cantt, Kanpur – 208 004
Telephone	:	0512 - 2381393
Religious	:	Congregation of Jesus (CJ), Ursulines Mary Immaculate (UMI), Missionaries of Charity (MC)

A Brief History:

This place was first visited by the Jesuit fathers working under the protection of Akbar’s Court. Later on with the suppression of the Jesuit Order this place was passed over to the Patna Mission. The first Church was built in 1825 on the bank of the river Ganges.

In the year 1857, during the mutiny, the Church and the priest house were destroyed. In1860 a hall was built which formed the foundation of the present Church. This building was covered with a thatched roof. Many conversions took place. In 1893 this place was handed over to the Military who undertook to enlarge it. In 1895 two wings were added with a sacristy to the main body. In this way the present Church came into existence and was dedicated to St. Patrick. The present priest-house was built by Rev. Fr. Lewis in the year 1909 and named after St. Anthony.

Established	:	1986
Patron	:	St. Thomas
Address	:	St. Thomas Church, 128/440 K Block, Kidwainagar, Kanpur – 208 011
Telephone	:	0512 – 2602348, 3290731
Religious	:	Canossian Daughters of Charity (FDCC)

A Brief History:

As the labour colonies grew in this area, many of our Catholics living in the precincts of St. Patrick’s Cantt.took up quarters here. After 1965 it became a substation of St. Patrick’s. Sunday service was held in houses and in the local schools. In 1980 Rev. Fr. Benedict Pereira went looking for land to put up a residence for the Priest, a School and finally a Church. In 1986 it was completed and Rev.Fr. B. Pereira was appointed the first resident Parish Priest of this place with a small Parish and a beautiful Church. The parish also caters to the educational needs of the people of the vicinity. The Canossian Sisters (FDCC) were invited to work in the School and to help in the pastoral and Mission Activities.

 

Established	:	1984
Patron	:	Mary, the Perpetual Succour
Address	:	SadaSahai Mata Mission,KapooriVilage, Pasna P.O. Via –Meja, Allahabad - 212302, (U.P.) INDIA
Religious	:	Congregation of Jesus (CJ)

A Brief History:

Since 1966 this place was visited by late Rev. Fr. Faustin Alva. In Meja Tehsil there was drought in 1966. To help specially the landless people Fr. Alva visited the villagers with the scheme of food for work. Fr. Alva was succeeded by Rev. Eric Pinto who concentrated on the remote area in this Tehsil consisting of 5 villages and on his transfer this social work came to a standstill till 1979, in 1980 Rev.Fr. Apolin Lobo the then Director of DDWS visited the place. In the same year Meja Tehsil was caught up again in drought. After 15 years it was decided to establish a mission station and so land was bought to start a dispensary at Kapoori. The clinic was taken over by the IBMV sisters and Rev. Fr. AvelinD’Silva took charge of the mission and the school. It was blessed by the then Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Baptist Mudhartha, on July 4, 1984.Due to Fr. Titus Lobo’s untiring efforts the school is upgraded and recognized up to Class 10 in the year 2010. The priest in charge of the place also caters to the spiritual needs of the station in Taraon.

Priest In charges

Rev. Fr Aveline D’Silva	1983-1988
Rev. Fr. Leo Sequeira	1988-1990
Rev. Fr. Mark D’Souza	1990-1996
Rev. Fr. Kevin Pradhan	1996-2000
Rev. Fr. Fr William D’Souza	2000-2001
Rev. Fr. Maria Selvaraj	2001-2007
Rev. Fr. Titus Lobo	2007-2014
Rev. Fr. PremPrakashLakra	2014-2015
Rev. Fr. GyanPrakash	2015 – to date

Established	:	1954
Patron	:	St. Thomas
Address	:	Catholic Mission, Chitaunakala P.O., Kalepur, Mahewal, Ambedkarnagar- 224159
Religious	:	Sisters of the Daughters of St. Joseph (DSJ), Congregation of the Missionaries of St. Francis (CMSF Brothers)

A Brief History:

Malipur mission station was established in May 9, 1954 by the Franciscan Brothers (CMSF).  Rev. Bro. John Mary cmsf and Rev. Bro. Fedeliscmsf were the first Missionaries to arrive in the village Chitauna. They stayed in the rented mud house. After few days, they purchased 40 acres of land for cultivation. They started informal education and social work. They began the formal education ministry in 1959 which got the recognition in 1966. As the house was found inadequate a new building was built in 1972 and later again further renovation was done in 1995.  The Daughters of St. Joseph Sisters (DSJ) were invited to assist in the mission work in 1994. Till June 1995 the Pastors from Akbarpur were attending to the spiritual needs of the faithful, later it was looked after by the priest in charge of Jaffarganj. Since 2000, there had been a residential priest.From July 2014, the residential priest was withdrawn and Rev. Fr. Thomas Serrao from Jaffarganj was asked by the then Bishop RaphyManjaly to cater to the spiritual needs of the religious there. Again in 2016 July a residential priest has been appointed.

Fathers

Rev. Fr. Anthony Pinto	1954-1960
Rev. Fr. Ivan	1960-1962
Rev. Fr. Pillai	1962-1963
Frs from Dostpur	1963-1965
Rev. Fr. Alfred Mendonca	1966
Rev. Fr. FranicsForan	1966-1969
Frs from Akbarpur	1970-1980
Fr. Alfred Mendonca	1987
Rev. Fr. Michael D’Souza	2000 - 2002
Rev. Fr. Kevin Pradhan	2002-2007
Rev. Fr. Anil Michael	2007- 2009
Rev. Fr. J. B. Fernandez	2009-2014
Rev. Fr. Prabhunath	2016 - date

Rev.Superiors

Rev. Br. John Mary Pinto
Rev. Br. Fidelis
Rev. Br.Anacletus	1964 1974
Rev. Br. Isaac	1974-1978
Rev. Br.Benezet	1978-1986
Rev. Br.Anacletus	1987-1988
Rev. Br. Cajitan	1988
Rev. Br.Benezet	1988 -1989
Rev. Br. Cyril	1989- 1991
Rev. Br.Noas	1991-1992
Rev. Br.Bernadin	1992-1993
Rev. Br. Emmanuel	1993-2000
Rev. Br. Varghese	2001-2003
Rev. Br. Emmanuel	2003-2005
Rev. Br. Benezet	2006
Rev. Br. John Vanicot	2006-2008
Rev. Br. Thomas Baley	2008-2009
Rev. Br. Francis	2009-2010
Rev. Br. Joseph Rhengra	2010-2011
Rev. Br. Xavier	2011-2012
Rev. Br. Andreas Kindo	2012- 2016

Established	:	1989
Patron	:	Mother Mary
Address	:	St. Mary’s Church, PeeliKothi, Station Road, Mirzapur – 231 001
Telephone	:	05442 – 220022, 220021
Religious	:	Ursuline Franciscan Sisters (UFS)

A Brief History

In Mirzapur there was a small Railway colony. Rev. Fr. Pascal Sinha who was the first resident chaplain built three rooms, one of them was used for Sunday Services. Later a Catechist stayed there and the Chaplain of Chunar looked after the place. The new Church was build and more land was purchased by the Priest in charges Rev. Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz and Rev. Fr. Jerome D’Souza. In 1989 a school was built; the UFS Sisters assist in the educational, pastoral and Social work of the place

Established	:	1957
Patron	:	Jesus Christ
Address	:	KhristBhawan, Mudila, Hamidpur P.O., Sultanpur Dt. 228 145
Telephone	:	05364 - 278052
Religious	:	Congregation of the Samaritan Sisters (CSS)

A Brief History

KhristBhawan, Catholic Mission is situated in a big village Mudila, 50kms from the district headquarter Sultanpur and 150kms from the diocesan headquarter Allahabad. The neighboring closest mission station is Dostpur, 13kms from Mudila.

Late Rev.Fr. Anthony Pinto who was residing in Dostpur mission often cycled to Mudila to study the place and the people over there and the prospects to open a new mission. There was not land available for sale. Finally, he saw a vast stretch of ushar (sodium) land surrounded by many villages. Though the land is not suitable for agriculture and drinking, Fr.Pinto thought that such margins are God’s site of visitation.

With the permission of Bishop Leonard Raymond, 30 bighas of land from Mahadeo Singh of Pahadpur-Kamtaganj was bought for Rs.2000.00 in1957.Late Fr. Joseph D’Souza, the attorney signed the Registration deed at Kadipur.

Fr.Pinto cycled to Mudila to find a shelter, close to the property. Mr. Bulesar, a Khevatby caste, offered the place. On 17th June 1957, Fr.Pinto collected some wheat-flour, dal, rice, tea, sugar  cooking utensils, a bucket, and dumped them into a sack and his personal belongings in a bedding and cycled to Mudila with Ram DularPandey, a catechumen as his companion and cook.But when they reached the village, Mr.Bulesar refused to give the house due to the  opposition of the villagers. Seeing Fr.Pinto’s anxiety and sad plight Bulesar’s wife, a noble soul whispered something into her husband’s ears, and then pointed to the cowshed, saying he could stay there. Fr.Pinto entered the cow shed with a profound bow as the entrance was very low.

There was a meeting in the village under the leadership of Panchayat secretary and assistant pradhan and it was decided that Fr.Pinto should clear away from the cowshed; otherwise he would be in serious trouble. They threatened Bulesar and Fr.Pinto that they would set fire to the shed. But Fr.Pinto refused to quite the place. Then he slowly started to make a mud-boundary to the plot but there was lot of opposition from the people.

The early hours of 17th Jan 1958 were inauspicious for the mission. About fifty intruders under the leadership of the Panchayat Secretary, came raising deafening slogans ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai’, and knocked down the boundary, destroyed the bunds of the fields and made a road through the centre of the mission compound. They also made a GhandhiChabutara on which the national flag had been hoisted. Fr.Pinto offered Mass rather early, praying to God to guide and strengthen him in this hour of darkness. Despite biting cold he rushed to Kadipur by cycle to appraiseTahsildarGyanBahadur Singh of the critical situation. Though the Tahsildar was not there, his wife, a former St.Mary’s girl, seeing him shivering with cold, assured him all the help. When Tahsilar came, he told him to write a report to be sent to the DM and requesting the D.M. to authorize his deputy Mr.Sharma with full powers to handle the situation.

On his return from Kadipur to Mudila, he found his cook absent. So no cook, no food, nor was there any fire wood to prepare something. He said his rosary and other prayers and slipped under the blankets. What had happened that day gave him night-mares and would not give him a wink of sleep. At about midnight, an old lady, bend more than 90 degree, whispered something through the bamboo door. When he opened the door, she offered him a lota full of hot milk and a small basket filled with roasted grains. “Eat and drink, if anything is left over, keep it for the morning. If the villagers want to kill me, I won’t mind. I am old now, I am the house owner’s mother,” she said and left him. He munched some grains and gulped down half of the milk; the rest he finished in the morning. This old lady repeated her generous gesture on the two following nights.

Fr.Pinto during this critical situation found consolation in reading the Psalm, “I have heard the slander of the crowd, and fear is all around me as they plot together against me, as they plan to take my life. As for me, I trust in you, Lord my God. My life is in your hands; deliver me from the hands of those who hate me”. Then he added, “I am working for your glory, Lord, and not for my honor, deliver me from this hour of darkness”.

21st February 1958 was a memorable day in the annals of Mudila mission. The Tahsilar visited Mudila and asked his deputy Mr. Sharma to do the needful. At the behest of Mr.Sharma, the pradhan removed the flag and asked the people to repair the boundary and the bunds of the fields. Thus the problem was tactfully solved.

As peace dawned in Mudila, Fr. Pinto with the villagers managed to put up a thatched shed in the mission property. There was also a mini-dispensary for “dava and dua” in the shed. Many villagers flocked to this dispensary and got well.Bro.Paschal joined him and took charge of the dispensary.

The need was felt to have a pakka house. As the construction work was in progress, there was a dreadful news of the cholera epidemic which spread like a wild-fire in the villages. From sun-rise to sun-set Fr.Pinto kept on visiting the villages, consoling them and helping them. Filth, remnants of purges and vomiting, unpleasant smell, little babies crying, groaning of men, wailing of women for their departed ones were nauseating, repulsive, pathetic and heart-rending. Children of 8 to 10 years dug holes in the nearby fields and buried their smaller brothers and sisters. At night jackals and dogs would dig them out and make a meal of them. Bro.Paschal and Fr.Pinto did what they could to help the people. The epidemic gradually began to abate after one and a half months fury.

Bishop Leonard Raymond blessed the house in the presence of some priests and nearly 500 villagers. 30 boys volunteered to stay in the boarding. They also opened 8 night schools and a primary school in the house. Then they put up a school building. Fr.Philip Noronha was sent to Mudila as co-pastor. After one year, Fr.Francis Foran replaced him. Fr.D.Crusbhakt I.M.S. Fr.B.Pereira also worked with Fr.Pinto for some time.

Christmas was great event for the people in and around Mudila. Crib and Mela were an added attraction. About 100 people took part in the Eucharistic celebrations. In 1964 Bishop Raymond came to Mudila to confirm 41 people.

Fr.Pinto was transferred to Lapta and Fr.Prabhu took charge of Mudila. As Fr.Prabhu was ill, Fr.AvelineD’silva replaced him. He put up a boarding house adjacent to the Chapel. After some years Fr. Aveline got a transfer and Fr.Prabhu came back again as in-charge. After three years Fr. Lazarus D’Mello took charge of the station with Fr.S.D’Cruz as his assistant. Fr.Thomas Serrao, an active and zealous missionary became in-charge and served the mission for about 8 years. He is followed by Fr.John Louis Souza. During his tenure the Samaritan Sisters came to Mudila and opened their convent and dispensary. He is followed by Fr.Ignatius for one year, and Fr.LancyD’cunha for five years, and Fr.William Mathias for five years. Fr. William built the new school building and the school was upgraded into junior high school. Thereafter Fr.Damien Gomes served the mission for 7years and at present Fr.Leo Sequeira is the mission in-charge. Fr. Vincent Pereira, assistant in Mudila constructed the new school building. He was a great help in raising the school to High School and also getting the Minority Status to our school.At present Fr. Stephen D’Mello is the assistant at Mudila mission.

Now, in 2012, there are 18 catholic families who belong to the lower middle class. The priests, the sisters and the catechist visit these families in different villages, hold prayer meetings and celebrate the Eucharist twice a year with them in their villages. Since we are surrounded by people of other faiths, we have good relationship with them. Christmas is celebrated in a big way. Carol singing is conducted in many villages, mostly in non-Christian families. Thousands of people of other religions come for the Christmas mela and many come to pay homage to baby Jesus in our crib and the chapel. We have a small youth group which is vibrant and active. They are sent for youth programmes conducted by the diocese and the region. The mission is also involved in the development work with the help of the sisters. Sisters also run a dispensary to cater to the health needs of the villagers. At present the main focus of the mission is education, particularly the education of the girl child, which is very much neglected in the area.

Established	:	1974
Patron	:	St. Francis Xavier
Address	:	St. Xavier’s Mission, Pargahi, Kachar, Naramau, Kanpur City – 209 217
Telephone	:	0512 – 2770375, 2770325
Religious	:	Daughters of Sacred Heart (DSH)

A Brief History

St. Xavier’s Mission is located between Mandhana and Naramau. It is about 13 km from Ashok Nagar and approximately 4 kilometers after I.I.T. Kanpur. It is in village called Pargahi Kachar that falls under Mandhana Post. The nearest landmark is Ram Ganga Housing Society.

When we turn the pages of history we come to know that in 1974 late Rev. Fr. Antony Pinto was entrusted with a responsibility by then Bishop Rt. Rev. Alfred Fernandez to open a mission station in Naramau. He saw many plots of land and then bought a few acres of land at Naramau. St. Xavier’s mission had two visiting stations, Panki and I.I.T., where Sunday services were held because there was problem of conveyance from those places. There was considerable number of Catholics at both the places. After Late Rev. Antony Pinto, the mantle was transferred to Late Rev. Fr. Francis Pereira who was instrumental in starting St. Xavier’s School way back in 1986. In the year 1996 the Sisters of Daughters of Sacred Heart started their convent. The priests were staying in the school itself. In the year 2003 new presbytery was inaugurated which was built under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Fredrick D’Souza. In the early years the parishioners used to go to St. Francis Xavier’s Church, Ashok Nagar, for major feasts. But later on the services were held in the chapel attached to the old convent building. As the number increased services were shifted to the class room. Late Rev. Fr. Michael Martin became the Parish Priest in the year 2004. Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes built and blessed a dispensary in the year 2007.  In the year 2009, Rev. Fr. Melwin Wilson D’Souza became the Parish Priest. Presently the services are held in a small prayer hall.

The priests regularly visit the houses. Presently there are thirteen Catholic families. The students from I.I.T. Kanpur and other medical colleges also attend Sunday services. The youth of the parish take active part in all the activities of the parish. The parish youth have won prizes in the Diocesan Bible Festivals.

The following priests have served the institution:

Parish Priests

1	Rev. Fr. Antony Pinto	1974 - ?
2	Rev. Fr. Francis Pereira	? – 1996
3	Rev. Fr. Fredrick D’Souza	1997 – 2005
4	Rev. Fr. Michael Martin	2005 – 2009
5	Rev. Fr. Melwin Wilson D’Souza	2009 – 2014
6	Rev. Fr. Maria Selvaraj	2014 – to date

Assistant Parish Priests

1	Rev. Fr. James Francis	1994 - 1996
2	Rev. Fr. Michael D’Souza	1997 – 1999
3	Rev. Fr. Archibald D’Silva	1999 – 2002
4	Rev. Fr. Deepak D’Souza	2002 – 2003
5	Rev. Fr. Vincent Pereira	2003 – 2006
6	Rev. Fr. Prem Prakash	2006 – 2009
7	Rev. Fr. Leslie Benedict Cutinha	2009 – 2012
8	Rev. Fr. Ronald Noronha	2012 – 2015
9	Rev. Fr. Prabhunath	2015 - 2016

Established	:	1965
Patron	:	Sacred Heart of Jesus
Address	:	Sacred Heart Church, Obra, Sonebhadra District – 231 219
Telephone	:	05445 - 262663
Religious	:	Ursulines of Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History

This mission is situated in the neighborhood of the Obra Thermal Plant. In 1965 Rev. Fr. Gregory Monis at the request of UPSEB authorities at Obra was sent there to erect a school building for a Church and a priest –house was added in the year1966. A new church was built and blessed on December 19, 1995 by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes.

Established	:	1921
Patron	:	Our Lady of Rosary
Address	:	Holy Rosary Church, Civil Lines, Pratapgarh – 231 001
Telephone	:	05342 - 221243
Religious	:	Canossian Daughters of Charity (FDCC)

A Brief History

Pratapgarh mission was first opened for the English troops. It was first visited by the Chaplain from Faizabad. In1921 Rev. Fr. Alexander was appointed resident missionary there. In 1899 Rev. Fr. Joseph Carol,OFM Cap. Of Delhi blessed the foundation stone of the orphanage of Pratapgarh. The Raja of Kalakankar assisted by the Raja of Pratapgarh and Sultanpur laid the foundation stone. In 1922 Bishop A. Polisolemenly blessed the Church and dedicated it to Our Lady of the Rosary Pompey after which the orphanage was built.

On the appointment of Rev. Fr. Alexander to this mission an industrial school was started where the Orphans were taught carpentry. Later on a weaving school was also opened for the orphans. The work done by them was appreciated even in government circles. On May 20, 1929 a large shed for the weaving school was constructed. Fr. Alexander opened another branch of art, candles made out of pure wax in different sizes. Later, with these savings he repaired the house which was later on given to the Canossian Daughters.

Established	:	1947
Patron	:	St. Peter
Address	:	St. Peter’s Church, Chajlapur, ITI P.O. Raebareli – 229 010
Telephone	:	0535-2701490
Religious	:	Ursulines of Franciscan Sisters (USFS)

A Brief History

St. Peter’s Church, Rae Bareli is situated on the Lucknow-Allahabad Highway. The history St. Peter’s Church dates back to 1947 when Rev. Fr. Anacletus D’Souza (the first parish priest) purchased a small piece of land at Chhajlapur village situated on the outskirts of Raebareli city and got a temporary room with thatched roof built and lived there for some years.

Fr. Anacletus’ interaction and friendly dealings with the (poor) people had an immediate effect on them and his popularity soon spread around the adjoining areas of Chhajlapur village and a large number of villagers flocked to him for their spiritual needs.

As the existing one room was insufficient, Fr. Anacletus bought another piece of land where he put up three rooms to accommodate the people for the prayer service and thus built the present Church. It was he who laid a solid foundation to enable people to profess their faith under one roof. He lived truly an austere life, making so much sacrifice with no proper food and normal comforts. This gives us an idea of the spirit of sacrifice and the noble service rendered by our Diocesan Missionaries.

In 1972 the Church was dedicated to St. Peter, the First Apostle of Jesus Christ. Subsequently the Ursuline Franciscan Sisters were invited to help in the Mission work. St. Peter’s School was founded in 1983, responding to the growing demands for a school by the general public of Raebareli. Presently the sisters are also rendering their service in school.The Ursuline Franciscan sisters were invited to work in the school and to help in the Pastoral and Mission Activities. A new presbytery has been constructed by Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas and blessed by Rev. Bp. RaphyManjaly in April 2016.

The following is a list of Parish Priests who have worked tirelessly and unflinchingly in the Pastoral and Mission Activities.

1.	Rev Fr. Anacletus D’souza
2	Rev. Fr. Stany D’souza
3	Rev. Fr. Thomas Serrao
4	Rev. Fr. Henry Suarez	(1983 – 1990)
5	Rev. Fr. Joseph Mascarenhas	(1990 – 1997)
6	Rev. Fr. Edward Goveas	(1997 – 2005)
7	Rev. Fr. Lawrence Fernandes	(2005 – 2014)
8	Rev. Fr. Louis Mascarenhas	(2014 – to date)

Established	:	1964
Patron	:	Our Lady of Lourdes
Address	:	Lourdes’ Church, Renukoot, Sonebhadra District – 231 217
Telephone	:	05446 - 252939
Religious	:	Ursuline Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History:

This mission is just 100 yards from Renukoot Railway Station and in the neighborhood ofRehand Dam (Asia’s biggest water reservoir), and in the township of HindalcoAluminium Factory. The land for the Church and the School was leased to the Diocese by Kanoria Chemicals Ltd. (Now it’s called Aditya Birla Chemical India Ltd – ABCIL) in 1964. Due to the untiring efforts of Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues the first building for the Church and the school came into existence. Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto, Fr. William D’souza, Fr. Richard Fernandes, Fr. Aveline Lewis, Fr. Victor Rodrigues and many others were the Parish priests and the Asst. Parish priests. The present church was constructed during the tenure of Fr. Ambrose D’Souza and was blessed on November 15, 1996 by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fenandes. After Rev. Fr. Ambrose D’Souza, Fr. J.B. Fernandes was the parish priest and in his tenure the priest house was built and blessed on 15th Nov. 2011. He was followed by Fr. Oswald D’Souza. Due to his sudden untimely death in Jan 2008 Fr. Melwin Wilson D’Souza was sent in his place as a care taker till June 2009. From July 2009 to 2015 Rev. Fr. Raymond served as the Parish Priest. Rev. Fr. George Madathikudiyil was appointed the new parish priest. He met with a major accident near Pratapgarh on August 22, 2015. Subsequently, Bishop RaphyManjaly requested Fr. James Francis to be the care-taker parish priest.Fr. James Francis willingly accepted and moved to the parish in October 2015. Later in 2017, he was appointed the Parish priest. The faithful are mostly from Kerala, Jharkand and Chattisgarh. Most of them are working in the factories, hospital, schools and in railways.  Today there are 54 families in the parish.

Established	:	1984
Patron	:	St. Joseph
Address	:	St. Joseph’s Church, Rihandnagar, Sonebhadra Dt. – 231 223
Telephone	:	05446 - 244909, 242090
Religious	:	Congregation of Jesus (CJ)

A Brief History

The NTPC had already a school run by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Allahabad at Shaktinagar. After six years the NTPC invited RCD, Allahabad again to open a school for the second Power Project at Rihandnagar in July 1984.The first Priest in charge was Rev. Fr. Noel D’Souza who was assisted by Rev. Fr. Aveline Luis. Five sisters of the Institute of the Blessed Virgin Mary (IBMV) now known as CJ, Allahabad were asked to help out in the pastoral and educational ministries. There were already Catholic families from South India and Chhota Nagpur (Jharkhand) working in the NTPC project pant and living there.  This project was built with British Collaboration.

In the beginning the Church services were held in the school hall. Later on the diocese built a Church in 1994 which was blessed by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad on December 8, 1994. Fr. Noel D’Souza (1984-1986), Fr. Charles D’Almeida (1986-1989), Fr. Richard Fernandes (1989-1997), Fr. A. James Francis (1997-2003), Fr. Rajesh Simon Thakur (2003-2008), Fr. Santosh Kumar Everest (2008 - 2014) and Fr. Sunil Noronha (2014 – to date) served the people of God with utmost dedication.

Established	:	1922
Patron	:	St. Francis Xavier
Address	:	St. Xavier’s Church, Robertsganj, SonebhadraDt – 231 216
Telephone	:	05444-222578, 222163
Religious	:	Ursuline Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History

This place is situated to the south of Varanasi in SonebhadraDistt. This station was opened by Dr. Angelo Poli in 1922. The first resident Priest’s were missionaries in the person of Rev. Fr. Celestine, OFM Cap. and Rev. Fr. Michael, OFM Cap. At first these two missionaries lived in a tent. They managed to get a plot of land but one of them fell ill so they were called back. In 1929 Rev. Fr. Anthony Bader and Br. Benedict of the Society of the Queen of the Apostles (German Missionaries) started visiting the place from Chunar. On January 12, 1931 Br. Benedict was sent there and in April he laid the foundation for the house of the missionaries and a Chapel was added to it in April 1935 by Rev. Fr. Anthony Bader. Fr. Charles D’Almeida took initiative to get the Church renovated in the year 2016. He also added a room at the back to make it a sacristy for the church.

Established	:	2005
Patron	:	St. Joseph
Address	:	Catholic Mission, SadwaKalan, Naini, Allahabad Dt – 212 108
Telephone	:	0533-2687578
Religious	:	Daughters of Sacred Heart

A Brief History:

With the view of proclaiming the kingdom of God by opening a school, Hospital, and a social welfare Center or a centre for alternate ministry a piece of land at Sadwa, Naini, 11 kilometres away from Allahabad in Mirzapur Road was purchased. Due to some technical difficulties plans for school building is not passed by the ADA i.e. Allahabad Development Authority.  Negotiation to get this piece of land was done in the year1997-98 and the sale deed was done on 6th of January 2000.  Rev. Fr. Wilfred D’Souza took care of this land for a few years residing at Jan Hit Sadan, Naini.  This mission was inaugurated officially by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad in November 2005. Since then a little bit cultivation is only done. The construction of the school began under the supervision of Fr. LancyD’Cunha. Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza sped up the construction work and got the building ready to begin the school in April 2016. The sisters of Daughters of Sacred Heart are collaborating in the mission of education.

Priests In charges

Rev. Fr. J.B. Fernandes	2005 - 2009
Rev. Fr. Lancy Xavier D’Cunha	2009 –2015
Rev. Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza	2015 – to date

Established	:	1978
Patron	:	St. Joseph
Address	:	St. Joseph’s Church, Shaktinagar, SonebhadraDt – 231 222
Telephone	:	05446 - 232386
Religious	:	Daughters of Sacred Heart (DSH)

A Brief History:

Shaktinagar is in the southern-most part of Sonebhadra district about 60 kms from Renukoot bordering on the extreme end of Rihand Catchment area in the neighbourhood of Singhrauli where U.P. has its first coal mine

At the invitation of the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) the Diocese accepted to take up this mission. Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto under the guidance of Rt. Rev. Baptist Mudartha, the then Bishop of Allahabad, signed a contract to open school for the children of the employees of NTPC. The premises were blessed on September 10, 1978 by five priests due to the inability of the bishop to come over on account of the grave flood situation in Allahabad. Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto was the main celebrant. The first incumbent was Rev. Fr. John of the Cross D’ Souza. At first the Sunday Services were held in the school premises; and now the multi–purpose hall is also made use of for all religious services.

Priests In charges

1	Rev. Fr. John C D’Souza	1978 – 1980
2	Rev. Fr. J. B. Castelino	1980 - 1986
3	Rev. Fr. Stany M D’Souza	1986 - 1988
4	Rev. Fr. Jerome D’Souza	1988 - 1997
5	Rev. Fr. Richard Fernandes	1997 - 2003
6	Rev. Fr. Oswald D’Souza	2003 - 2005
7	Rev. Fr. Thomas Kumar	2005 - 2008
8	Rev. Fr. Victor Rodrigues	2008 – 2014
9	Rev. Fr. Alfred George	2014 – to date

Established	:	2003
Patron	:	St. Joseph
Address	:	St. Joseph’s Mission, Ward No.8, Kanaknagar, Shankergarh, Allahabad District – 212 108
Telephone	:	0533-222500
Religious	:	Congregation of Samaritan Sisters

A Brief History:

The land in Shankergarh, on the way to Banda, was purchased in 2002 by the Bishop, Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes.  In the year 2003, Fr. Eric Pinto volunteered to work in the area staying in a rented room. During his stay there, he purchased another plot of land in Ward No. 8 where he put up a building for the school.  Fr. Eric fell sick in 2006 after which he had not regained his health.

Fr. Thomas SSP took up the mission for a year 2007. However, Fr. Ambrose D’Souza succeeded him for a year in 2008-2009. In 2009, Fr. Albert Lobo was appointed the mission in charge.  He opened a Computer institute for the village people.

Seeing to the need of extension of the School, Rev. Fr. Vincent Pereira, obtained permission from the Bishop and put up a huge building for the school which was inaugurated in 2017. The Congregation of the Samaritan Sisters agreed to collaborate in the mission. Initially, they were put up in the school building itself. Later, St. Joseph’s Convent construction was also completed under the able guidance of Rev. Fr. Vincent which was blessed and inaugurated by Most Rev. RaphyManjaly on 23 January, 2018.

Pastors Who Served:

Rev. Fr. Eric Pinto	2003 - 2007
Rev. Fr. Thomas SSP	2007 - 2008
Rev. Fr. Ambrose DeSouza	2008 - 2009
Rev. Fr. Albert Lobo	2009 – 2014
Rev. Fr. Vincent Pereira	2014 – to date

Established	:	1968
Patron	:	St. Paul
Address	:	St. Paul’s Church, Civil Lines, Sultanpur – 228 001
Telephone	:	05362 - 242495
Religious	:	Bethany Sisters (BS), Ursulines of Mary Immaculate (UMI)

A Brief History

In 1967, a plot was acquired from the Lucknow Diocesan Trust Association by the late Bishop Raymond D’Mello on the Allahabad  Faizabad Road, opposite to the Collectorate with the persuasive efforts of late Rev. Fr. Faustin Alva, the then Parish Priest (Rector) of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Allahabad, wherein now the Karunashray hospital stands.

In 1968 the late Bishop Raymond D’Mello acquired another plot of land from Mrs. Florence Buchman in the Civil Line with a residence and a small Church in it. Bro. Paschal was the care-taker of the property till Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues was appointed the first Chaplain.

The inauguration and blessing of the Church and the Convent took place on 1st July 1968 with the arrival of Rev. Fr. Stephen Rodrigues from Renukoot and Sr. Canice, the first Sister Superior, and her community of five Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany, Mangalore. And thereafter the place came to be called the Catholic Mission, Sultanpur, and the convent was named as Stella Maris. Mrs. Ruth John and her three sons, members of the Methodist Church, received into the Catholic Church by Fr. Stephen Rodrigues and later Mr. John Gunny by Rev. Fr. J. B. Castelino, formed the core of the Catholic community of Sultanpur. The Church Bell came as a gift from the Mudila Mission.

Soon after, Fr. Stephen Rodrigues was given the responsibility of constructing a school building which he did by May 1970 and the Bishop handed it over to the Bethany Sisters to run an English Medium School to cater to the educational needs of the people of Sultanpur and the Christian community in particular.

The construction of the Karunashray Hospital on the plot acquired on the Allahabad Faizabad Road earlier began only in 1972. After the slow and unsteady progress due to the insufficient funds set aside by the late Bishop Raymond D’Mello, the completed hospital building was finally inaugurated on 9th February 1975 by the then Parliamentary Minister, ShriKedarnath Singh, in the absence of the Bishop.

However, the formal blessing of the hospital and the new Parish House constructed by Fr. J. B. Castelino, was done on 17th March 1975 by Rt. Rev. Dr. Alfred Fernandez and the privilege of running the hospital went to the Ursuline Sisters of Mary Immaculate of Cannanore, Kerala.

From time to time the parish priests were appointed by the Bishop of Allahabad to serve the spiritual needs of the sisters of both communities and the small Catholic community of Sultanpur. The parish priest of Sultanpur is also given he additional responsibility of a visiting station at HAL, Korwa, where Mass is offered on alternative Sundays for a small Catholic Community of Korwa and Amethi.

Some priests were posted here to do their B.Ed. studies as this facility was made available by the Head of the B. Ed. department of KNI at Sultanpur and Amethi.

On the occasion of the Silver Jubilee Year of the Catholic Mission, Sultanpur, in the year 1992, Dr. Eugene Rebello volunteered to sponsor a grotto to the parish Jubilee Memorial under the guidance of late Fr. John of the Cross D’Souza, while Fr. Thomas Serrao arranged the transport of the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes from Quilon, Kerala.

Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, the then Bishop of Allahabad, blessed the grotto on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Church as well as the Stella Maris Convent, held simultaneously on 29th November, 1992. On the suggestion given by late Fr. John of the Cross D’Souza, the Church was dedicated to St. Paul by the Bishop and thereby he renamed it again St. Paul’s Church, the only Church to be dedicated to St. Paul in the diocese.

Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz, during his tenure as the parish priest, took the initiative to build the present church with the encouragement and financial backing of Bishop Isidore Fernandes. The foundation Stone was blessed and laid by Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz on 26th May 1999 and it took about a year and a half for him to complete the building. The inauguration and the blessing of the church and the consecration of the altar was done by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes in the presence of the diocesan priests, religious brothers and sisters and the faithful of the parish on 18th October, 2000.

Rev. Fr. John Lobo renovated the parish house in 2015.

Former Parish Priests

Fr. Steven Rodrigues	Parish Priest	Jul, 1968	May, 1976
Fr. J. B. Castelino	Asst. Parish Priest	May, 1975	May, 1976
Fr. Lawrence Kurian	Parish Priest	May, 1976	Aug, 1977
Fr. Joseph D’souza	Parish Priest	Sep, 1977	Sep, 1981
Fr. Francis Periera	Parish Priest	Sep, 1981	Jun, 1984
Fr. Charles Almeida	Parish Priest	Jul, 1984	Jun, 1985
Fr. Anthony Pinto	Socius	Jul, 1984	…?
Fr. Victor Rodrigurs	Parish Priest	Jul, 1985	Jun, 1990
Fr. Edward Goveas	Parish Priest	Jun, 1990	Jun, 1992
Fr. John of the Cross D’Souza	Parish Priest	Jul, 1992	Jun, 1993
Fr. Oswald D’Souza	Parish Priest	Jul, 1993	Jun, 1995
Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz	Parish Priest	Jul, 1995	Jun, 2002
Fr. Valerian D’Souza	Parish Priest	Jul, 2002	Jun, 2007
Fr. Charles D’Almeida	Parish Priest	Jul, 2007	June, 2014
Fr. John Lobo	Parish Priest	July 2014	till now

Assistant Pastors

Fr. George Prakash Dantis	Asst. Parish Priest	Jun, 2007	Jun, 2009
Fr. Gyan Prakash	Asst. Parish Priest	Jul, 2009	Jun, 2012
Fr. Prem Prakash Lakra	Asst. Parish Priest	Jul, 2012	Jun, 2013

Established	:	1918
Patron	:	St. Theresa of Little Flower
Address	:	St. Theresa’ Mission, Theresapur P.O., Via Chunar, MirzapurDt 231 304
Telephone	:	05443-229010
Religious	:	Sisters of Queen of the Apostles

A Brief History

Theresapur is situated on the bank of the river Ganges to the north of Chunar in Mirzapur district. It was a Cantonment and called Sultanpur. His Lordship Dr. Angelo Pole had his eye on the place to open a mission station and an agricultural colony. This was his first Mission Station. He obtained land on lease and this mission was opened on October 30, 1918. It was dedicated to St. Theresa of the Infant Jesus with the hope she would take care of and have special interest in spreading the message of Christ. In November 1918 there came the first missionary in the person of Rev. Fr. Peter Mary, OFM Cap. Who resided at Chunar and regularly visited Theresapur. In March 1919 the Superior Regular of Capuchins thought of a residence for the missionaries. In January 1920 this was ready. On May 3, 1921 the first 25 converts were baptized; thence sisters of the third Order of St. Francis were brought to Theresapur. They began instructing women and giving medicines.

Later on Rev. Fr. Jeremiah OFM, Cap. Was appointed to this place. Along with him the Franciscan Brothers of Mt. Poinsur arrived to help him out. With the Italian declaration of War  Fr. Jeremiah was sent to the internment camp; he was succeeded by Rev. Fr. Jerome, OFM Ca[/ (Camadoam ).Rev. Fr. Clarence Geary, a Diocesan Priest was sent as an Assistant for the mission. In November 1925, Bishop Angelo Pole blessed the present Convent and the School and dedicated it to the Little Flower. This was entrusted to the Canossian Daughters of Charity. During their short stay the sisters visited the villages instructing women and dispensing medicines. In1931 Sisters of the Queen of the Apostles (SRA) replaced the Canossians. The present school was started in 1948 by Rev. Fr. Faustine Alva.

This mission was handed over to the Indian Missionary Society (IMS) in the year 1985. They opened a house for the Formation of IMS Candidates.