Nagpur: Rt. Rev. Paranjyothy Sandela was appointed as the 13th Bishop of the Church of North India (CNI) Nagpur Diocese during a ceremony at All Saints' Cathedral in Sadar on Monday. This event took place a day after his consecration at St Paul's Cathedral in Kolkata.
Understanding Consecration and Installation
Consecration is a sacred rite that anoints a priest as Bishop, symbolizing spiritual elevation. Installation, on the other hand, is the formal seating of the bishop in charge of a specific Diocese at its Cathedral.
Installation Service Highlights
Bishops from neighboring dioceses, pastors, members of churches across the Nagpur Diocese, and heads of institutions attended the Installation service. The ceremony began with a ceremonial knocking on the Cathedral door, followed by hymns of worship and thanksgiving.
Rt. Rev. Paranjyothy delivered the sermon, calling on the congregation to walk with humility and work in unity for the church. Three Senior Presbyters led the service and offered special prayers for the new bishop and his ministry. He was installed in his office in the presence of the Diocesan Executive Committee and pastors.
Consecration in Kolkata
The consecration on Sunday in Kolkata was administered by The Most Rev. Paritosh Canning, Moderator of the CNI Synod. Nearly all serving bishops of the CNI attended the service, along with 10 superannuated bishops, including former Moderators of the Synod.
Bishop Paranjyothy's Background
Bishop Paranjyothy earned his Bachelor of Divinity from the United Theological College in Bengaluru in 1995. He completed his Master of Theology through the Association for Theological Education by Extension (TAFTEE) in 2004, affiliated with the University of Wales in the United Kingdom. He was ordained a presbyter on September 7, 1997, in the Nagpur Diocese and served the diocese in various capacities for nearly 29 years.
He was attached to All Saints' Cathedral prior to his elevation and has held positions including Honorary Secretary of the Nagpur Diocesan Council and the Nagpur Diocesan Trust Association, and Director of the CNI Social Service Institute.
Personal Life
Bishop Paranjyothy is married to Krupa Devi, and they have three children.
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