Archdiocese at a Glance

The history of the inception, growth and blossoming of the Archdiocese of Bhopal as it is today, is one that is replete with God's boundless mercies, finding expression in their fullness supplemented by dedicated human response and endeavour.

On 01 November 1956 when the new state of Madhya Pradesh was erected, looking at the bright prospects of the Central Indian state 13 September 1963 Pope Paul (VI) has splashed in gold in the life sketch of the Archdiocese of Bhopal, as it was on this day, the Archdiocese was created and Most Rev Eugene D' Souza was appointed as its first Archbishop.

Most Rev Pascal Topno SJ succeeded Dr Eugene D' Souza MSFS in 1994 as the new shepherd and in June 2007 Most Rev Leo Cornelio SVD became the new shepherd of the Archdiocese of Bhopal. 

On 4th October 2021 Archbishop Leo Cornelio SVD step down from his office with the new appointment of Bishop A.A.S. Durairaj SVD as his successor. On 27th Nov. 2021 Bishop A.A.S. Durairaj SVD was installed as the new Archbishop of Bhopal. Since then His Grace is shepherding God's people in the service of the Lord. Year 2022-23 marking the Diamond Jubilee of its inception. Archdiocese pays tribute to all who toiled for its growth and development down the history. Archdiocese gallantly strides ahead bearing witness to Christ's love and service in its mission. 

Presently the Archdiocese of Bhopal has about 75 diocesan priests, 78 religious priests, 26 religious brothers, 52 diocesan seminarians and 594 religious sisters working in the 26 parishes and 20 mission stations of the Archdiocese of Bhopal.

Bhopal Archdiocese as a whole has 02 Colleges, 06 Pastoral Animation Centres, 03 Nursing Colleges, 57 Schools, 15 Hostels, 07 Social Welfare Centers, 04 Hospitals, 06 Dispensaries, 07 Professional Training Centers, 05 Special Schools, 03 Communication Centers, 03 Hospices and 25 Seminaries/Formation Houses.