Joseph Raja Rao is bishop of Vijayawada Diocese

Vijayawada: The Provincial Superior of the Montfort Fathers (SMM), Bengaluru, Rev Dr T Joseph Raja Rao, on Tuesday took charge as the bishop of Vijayawada Diocese.

The installation ceremony was conducted under the supervision of Apostolic Nuncio, India and Nepal Ordaining Prelate, Rev Salvatore Pennacchio, at Bishop Grassi High School Grounds, Gunadala.

In his message, the bishop asked the devotees to pray to God for the world peace. Apostolic administrator Rev Govindu Joji, Gunadala Mary Matha Shrine Rector Fr M Chinnappa, Archbishop of Hyderabad Rev Thumma Bala, Archbishop of Visakhapatnam Rev Mallavarapu Prakash and sisters participated in the prayers.

He showered blessings on the Christian brethren and wished them a healthy and happy life. He asked the heads of various organisations and institutions to extend their cooperation for smooth running of Vijayawada diocese.

Expressing happiness over taking over as the bishop, Joseph Raja Rao, assured devotees of developing Vijayawada diocese in all aspects.

He called upon the devotees to be united and spread the message of Jesus to all. The devotees offered fruits to the bishop, and sang holy songs, on the occasion. Managements of Maris Stella College, Nirmala High School, Loyola College and St Paul Cathedral were also present during the installation ceremony of the bishop.