Archive · 1 Nov 2025
Fr Simon Almeida Appointed New Bishop of Poona
A new bishop has been chosen for the Poona Diocese.
His name is Father Simon Almeida.
He is 65 years old and has been a priest for 35 years, serving in many roles within the diocese.
Pope Leo XIV officially appointed him.
This position became available about a year ago when the previous bishop, John Rodrigues, became an archbishop in Bombay.
The Poona Diocese is responsible for many Catholics in several districts of Maharashtra.
Father Almeida expressed gratitude and a commitment to serve the people.
Archbishop John Rodrigues believes Father Almeida will be a good shepherd for the community.
Father Almeida has studied psychology, sociology, and pastoral studies, and has held various important positions in churches and seminaries.
Fr Simon Almeida, 65, has been appointed the new Bishop of Poona.
The appointment was made by Pope Leo XIV and confirmed in a letter on November 2.
The post of Bishop of Poona became vacant nearly a year ago.
The Diocese of Poona serves 92,360 Catholics across five districts in Maharashtra.
Fr Almeida has served the Diocese of Poona for 35 years in various roles.
- Who
- Fr Simon Almeida
- What
- Appointed as the new Bishop of Poona
- When
- Saturday, November 2, 2024 (assumed based on letter date)
- Where
- Diocese of Poona, covering Pune, Satara, Solapur, Sangli districts and Kolhapur city in Maharashtra
- Why
- To assume charge after the post fell vacant following the elevation of Rev John Rodrigues.
- Bishop-elect
- Fr Simon Almeida
- Appointing Authority
- Pope Leo XIV
- Date of Appointment
- Saturday, November 2, 2024 (assumed based on letter date)
- Diocese
- Poona
- Previous Bishop
- Rev John Rodrigues (elevated to Coadjutor Archbishop of Bombay)
- Catholic Population
- 92,360
- Number of Parishes
- 42