The Church in the Hills and the Plains
A particular Church gathered from many peoples, languages and landscapes — one family in Christ.
1910
Our Diocese
The Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh, erected in its present form in the second half of the twentieth century, gathers the Catholic faithful of the Himalayan and sub-Himalayan regions of north-west India.
From its early mission stations to its present network of parishes, schools, dispensaries and social institutions, the diocese has been shaped by the witness of generations of priests, religious and lay faithful who carried the Gospel into the hills.
One Diocese. Many People.
A Journey Through History
Church of St. Michael and St. Joseph
Built in Simla by Lord Ripon, Catholic Viceroy of India. A landmark presence in the Himalayan region.
Archdiocese of Simla Created
Separated from the Archdiocese of Agra to serve the growing northern community.
First Archbishop Consecrated
Archbishop Anselm E.J. Keneally OFM Cap consecrated in Rome, beginning formal leadership.
Independent Diocese Established
Bishop John Burke appointed as first Bishop, marking the structural transition to the modern see.
Bishop Alfred Fernandes
Appointed to lead the Diocese during a period of significant institutional consolidation.
Pastoral Centre Shifts to Chandigarh
Bishop Gilbert B. Rego appointed. The strategic move reflected regional urban growth.
New Phase of Mission
Bishop Ignatius Mascarenhas appointed, focusing on pastoral expansion and mission renewal.
Pastoral Plan 2026–2033
Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas initiates a new decade of synodal listening and growth.
Serving the Mission Land
The Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh is a real mission land — home to great religions and diverse cultures, served by a dedicated pastoral family.
140+ Priests
Diocesan clergy and priests from seven Religious Congregations — serving across 58 parishes and mission stations.
30 Congregations
Brothers and Sisters spread across 61 communities — sharing in pastoral, educational and social mission.
Social Mission
Educational and social institutions serving the wider community regardless of faith or background.
“Spread across a vast and diverse region, the Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh is united in faith in Christ, bringing together people of many cultures, languages and backgrounds as one community under the care of a single shepherd.”Diocese of Simla-Chandigarh
Explore the Pastoral Plan 2026–2033
Discover how the Diocese is responding to its mission through seven years of communion, participation and mission.
EXPLORE THE PLAN →