Bishop Dabre installed as new bishop of Poona

(June 8, 2009) Indian bishop Thomas Dabre of Vasai was installed the new bishop of Poona at a solemn Eucharistic celebration in St Patrick's Cathedral in Pune city, Maharashtra state, on Sunday. About 3,500 people, including Hindus and Muslims, attended the ceremony led by Cardinal Oswald Gracias of Bombay, along with 14 prelates and more than 225 priests. Bishop Dabre, who is 63, took over as head of the 123-year-old Poona diocese from retired Bishop Valerian D'Souza, who served the diocese for 32 years. In a homily, Bishop Dabre spelt out his priorities stressing that a proper faith formation would bring joy, forgiveness and healing to Catholics. The challenges of modern life can only be met if people understand their faith and practice it daily. He also promised to pay greater attention to the youth, who he said are "our glory, our hope and our springtime." The Church cannot achieve its mission without the help of young people, he stressed urging the clergy and Religious "to reach out to youth." He wants the Indian Church to promote openness to and appreciation of other cultures and religions. Regretting attacks on Christians in various parts of India, he urged his new flock to reveal the "true face" of Christianity by showing "forgiveness, love and compassion for all."